Wow, what wonderful insights from this ever so technical thread! (he, he).
As far as Hobo's question. You cannot burn a DVD on a CD writer. The closest would be to create a SVCD (Super VCD) or plain old VCD.
As far as just computer use, there is no problems making a DATA CD with whatever files (MPEG, AVI, or DivX, etc) if you are just going to using on your computer. The only catch is, you are limited to your computer or other computers that have the same type of software (other computers would need the ability to play the specified file type you convert your AVI into). MPEG or AVI will be your most common types, although, you if you find a freeware program to play it, just include it on the disc too -- that way you always have what you need to play the file.
You'll probably run into the 700 MB limit issue a few times. There are several programs that can help sqeeze DVD quality MPEGs and large AVIs into the appropriate resolution, quality, and size -- of course most compression formats are lossy, so always work from your original AVI.
Software: TMPGEnc is great for VCD and DVD. I'm using Pinnacle's Studio 8 (also does everything), but Studio will set you back $62 + shipping. I've heard good stuff about several other software programs like DVD Complete, MyDVD (although I don't care for it), and a few cheap/free utils that will convert from one format to another. Even Nero has a nice MPEG/VCD or MPEG2/DVD or MPEG4 plugins. Of course, those are extra too.
So, you have options, just not the one you specifically wanted.
Should anyone out there still read this, yes you can burn dvd without a dvd burner. A cd writer is perfectly fine and using cdr works. Just as long as the file size does not exceed 650 megs.
True. A cdr is not the same, however, for those of us who cannot afford a dvd burner or the discs, a cdr does just fine. In fact, I've burned dvd material to cdrw. I'm just trying to help the dude out. Any more sarcastic remarks?
