Hi GloryBound -
I, too use Adaptec software. Adaptec changed ownership last year or so and the software may have altered but for our purposes, I think the instructions should be the same.
Open the Adaptec program and select "Create CD." When you are given the choice, select "Data."
The Window will open with the Windows Explorer index on top, the selected files index below and at the bottom of that window a bar graph showing total megabytes used. I have found that a disc will max out at about 600.
Keep selecting the files you need to save from the tree. You can either select the items and click "Add" or you can drag the files to the selected files window. Once you have filled the selected files window click "create CD."
For your graphics files you can drag the entire folder down to the selection window. If you want to save your Internet explorer favorites, open "Windows" on the tree and drag down the "Favorites" folder.
I created a file in my Windows explorer for set up files and zips so that I do not need to save entire programs but rather just those .app files.
You can save yourself a lot of hassle by going through your Windows explorer program and dragging things into a common file before you start. Also, if you have a program like AOL and you want to save your filing cabinet, open the filing cabinet and right click the file or folder you want to save and you will be given the option.
One other peice of advice is that you reboot before you start the process and reboot again when you're done. Adaptec tends to devour the system resources on this hard drive and things can freeze up quickly.
I also use the Adeptec software for creating jewel cases to make a viewable index on a jewel case cover so I know which back up is which and what date it was created.
One other thing, if you go to reinstall your Adaptec software after you reformat, use the older disc rather that their website which opens up automatically when you insert the CD. Click out of that window, go to My Computer, right click the "D" drive (if that's your CD-ROM drive) and click "explore." Then click "EasyCD" and then "setup". The older software is more versatile. After the Napster case, Adaptec added some kind of copyright protector.
As for discs, from what I understand, a disc is a disc is a disc.