Why can't I copy my files?

June 28, 2004 7:56 AM

Here's a hard one: why can’t I copy my files? [More griping inside]

I’m used to backing up stuff easily using CD-RWs and packet writing software. On my new computer set up (XP + Nero’s InCD, latest version) trying to do this has led to nothing but error messages and curses. Typical situation: buy new CD-RW. Format it. Open Windows Explorer. Copy files to CD. Error message: one of the file names is too long or something else is wrong with the file. Erase CD. Format again. Rinse & repeat.

There is nothing wrong with my files and the ”too long” file names can be less than 10 characters. The only way to get help from Nero is through an online support form that didn’t work, that’s why I’m bringing my troubles here again.

Any packet writing freeware out there?

posted by Termite to computers & internet (7 comments total)

1. Are you trying to copy files that are in use by Windows or other third-party applications? Can they be manipulated normally outside of InCD?

2. Do you have any software running that might interfere with InCD's ability to function? Adaptec and Real, for example, install "disc detector" applications that sit in memory and watch for inserted discs to automatically perform their various operations.

3. Are you certain your system/CD-RW drive/etc. supports CD-MRW?
posted by Danelope at 8:11 AM on June 28, 2004

Since I assume you're backing up the exact same stuff you normally do, this is probably not the issue, but it's worth questioning: how long are the total file paths for the files being backed up? When burning stuff on my PC with Nero (5.x, WinXP) I occasionally run into Nero complaining because my filenames/paths are too long, and it's because of some super-duper nested folder setup somewhere.

Generally the ISO9660 filesystem on a CD-ROM doesn't care about the file 'name' as much as the entire path to the file (I.e. 'C:\Documents and Settings\Username\My Documents\Blah\Blah\Blah\Blah\Blah\Blah\Blah\notes.txt' vs 'notes.txt'). I think this has to do with the index written somewhere on the CD (since the problem doesn't occur on the hard drive's filesystem...) but I have no real idea.

So, make sure you don't have some deeply nested folders with long names that result in the end-files having a filepath of, say, a few hundred characters or so.
posted by cyrusdogstar at 9:53 AM on June 28, 2004

Also, what setup did you use previously, before WinXP + Nero InCD (I'm just used to 'Nero Burning ROM', no idea what's different from InCD)? Win98 and (shudder) Roxio? Or what?
posted by cyrusdogstar at 9:54 AM on June 28, 2004

Are you trying to copy files that are in use by Windows or other third-party applications?
No.

Can they be manipulated normally outside of InCD?
Yes.

Do you have any software running that might interfere with InCD's ability to function?
Not any that I’m aware of.

Also, what setup did you use previously, before WinXP + Nero InCD (I'm just used to 'Nero Burning ROM', no idea what's different from InCD)? Win98 and (shudder) Roxio?
Well, almost! Windows ME and Adaptec’s DirectCD. Same CD-RW writer. Worked perfectly every time.

...how long are the total file paths for the files being backed up?
Good suggestion, I’ll look into it. The file paths are not absurdly long and everything worked with my older setup.

Thanks for your answers!
posted by Termite at 10:40 AM on June 28, 2004

If the file paths are not absurdly long, then it does sound like some kind of application issue with InCD...I'd suggest attempting to get some alternative burning software and seeing if those work. I *think* there are some freeware/shareware burners out there...and if you email me I can provide a (known working on WinXP) copy of Nero 5.x or Golden Hawk's CDRWin for testing purposes :)
posted by cyrusdogstar at 11:36 AM on June 28, 2004

I used to have similar problems, but upgrading to the latest InCD solved them. Not sure why it hasn't worked for you.
posted by kindall at 12:03 PM on June 28, 2004

Is there any useful work-around for this problem with path/filename being too long? This problem really gives me grief sometimes, and discourages backups.
posted by Goofyy at 12:09 AM on July 1, 2004