I have Windows XP Service Pack 2 and have been unable to determine why the computer does not recognise a RW-CD installed READY for copying files as a back-up. I can use Nero but not the standard copying procedure. The files appear ready for copying but the wizard stalls with the info. 'there is no cd in drive E' when there is? Any ideas please? (I can play commercial CDs and DVDs and those already copied work fine)

KernowLook on the front of the dvd drive and check it SAYS Dvd RWWhy would a DVDRW drive be needed to write CDs?
kernow, go to Start - run - type services.msc and press enter.
Ensure that the IMAPI CD-burning COM service is set to automatic.
Also, try using a CD-R instead of a CD-RW, or a different brand.
Hope this helps.Calum is correct on trying a different blank media...some BURNERS are picky about this.Thanks, Calum. It was set to manaual and I changed to automatic but it makes no difference. I have tried different makes of CD-RW without any success. It's weird!

Kernowkernow first off Welcome to CH !
How old is this burner ? ?
The newer ones use different lasers for reading and burning so the drive may still READ but be unable to burn...
If it's around 3-4 years old it may have failed.
Best way to make sure is to swap it into another machine and see if it exhibits the same symptoms...if so the burner laser diode may be shot.