media media media

[demerl51]

Hi Guys,

A little history. Might save a little time and trouble if you can't get an image validated. Might save even more if your image is validated ;>)

I recently purchased TI 10 and created a full backup image on a DVD. It validated. I backed up my data(always do this). And attempted the ultimate test. A full restore. The restore proceded for awhile and then produced a file corrupt message. Result: I had to manually restore my system and update it using 56k.

So, I used the boot disk and created another full backup image. I split the file size below the 2mb iso limit. It validated using the boot disk. But failed when I attempted to validate the DVDs using TI with windows.

So, I created another set of image files using TI under windows then using Nero to burn them to the DVD's. They validated in both windows and the linux boot disk. So, I backed my data up again(very important step). And attempted the ultimate test again. Guess what. Same results as before. I got that file corrupt message again! And I had to manually restore my system again.

I downloaded the latest firmware for my Sony DVD drive. And ran several utilities to test system memory, the drive, etc. No problems were reported.

I thought the problems were some incompatibility between my system and the TI 10 software. So, I requested a refund. I must compliment Acronis on their business practices. It's a great company.

So, I got another lower level image utility which checked and validated each sector after it's written. Sure enough, problems again. Using the same drive, I changed from DVD's to CD's. Results: No problems.

I changed the DVD +RW 4x name brand media to DVD -R 16x name brand media and guess what. No problems.

So, if you are having problems validating or are getting that corrupt file message, try switching to another media type. Get a name brand and get one rated for a higher speed(maybe it's more stable and of a better quality).

I now have a lower level, slower image program(which meets my limited needs) and a refund coming from Acronis. But If I had to do it again, I would know to try a different media type first.

Regards
Dennis

[seekforever]

I quite agree it is all about media, media, media and I say so even to the end that putting a backup on HD is better than DVD.

Your results also confirm what my opinion of DVDs in general, RW disks should be used for recording TV programs, and trying things out - not for storage of anything important. Almost all my DVD problems have been with RW which failed long, long, before their rated life.

You appear to have done what a lot of us on this forum don't recommend - burning directly to DVD with TI's direct burn feature rather than making an image to HD first and then burning it with Nero, Roxio, or whatever. One reason is that the people who make burning software tend to know more about the issue. Who knows how good the TI burner is at adjusting for media quality?

16X should be better media than 4X. Interesting though, especially in light of my comment about adjusting for media quality above.