Why do files get lost when writing it to a CD-R/RW on Windows XP?

After writing a file to a CD-R/RW using the CD writing function available in Windows XP as a standard function, the file size of the CD-R/RW becomes smaller than the original size and files get lost sometimes.




This symptom occurs when writing of data happens before the copying of file is completed.
The specifications of Windows XP allow users to write data to a CD-R/RW in the middle of the copying process of the file even though the system is not actually prepared for such operation. If user writes data when the system is not prepared for it, the file size becomes smaller than the source data and the file itself is not written sometimes.
When using the CD writing function of Windows XP, write data after the completion of copying the file.

To avoid this symptom, Sony recommends the use of a dedicated writing software for example Drag'n Drop CD.

For more details, please refer to the following solution in Microsoft's technical support website.
Article ID: Q301480
Last Reviewed: October 18, 2001
Title: Files may be lost during CD-ROM creation if you drag and drop files into the Staging Area.