Windows was unable to complete the format

[youraarpness]

I have a new computer, Dell Inspiron 580 Windows 7 64-bit. I was trying the "Format" option in Windows Explorer and got the following message: : Windows was unable to complete the format." I had a DVD R/W disc in the drive.

 

[TVeblen]

You do not format CDs or DVDs with Windows Explorer.

You can use a Program, like Nero Burning ROM or similar to create a data disk, or a CD or DVD "formatted" as UDF or UDF/ISO, which will allow it to be recognized in Windows Explorer like it was a normal folder.

 

[youraarpness]

What is the "Format" option used for then?

 

[MacGyvr]

Hard drives, USB drives, flash cards, etc.

 

[youraarpness]

Thank you