Anyone know a good dvd burner I can use to burn data? That's uhhhh free...I tried many and it doesn't recognize my dvd in the dvd-rom. It tells me to insert a disk into the cd-rom when it's already in there. Please help me.

DVD shrink.

There's only one problem with dvd shrink - it uses Nero to do the burning so you'll need to download and install a trial version of Nero as well - but do not run Nero once installed as this will start the trial period countdown. Dvd shrink will be able to use Nero without causing it to expire.

It means you have to download 2 pieces of software (and you must download and install Nero before you install DVD Shrink) but it works.

It's designed as a backup facility, so it isn't actually dvd burning software at all. It's advantage is that it can make use of a trial version of Nero without ever causing it to expire. You'll find out more (if you're interested) by doing a search for DVD Shrink, plenty of info out there.

I don't know of any other free dvd burning software - all burners come with their own burning software so there isn't much requirement for additional ones. I assume you have a good reason for not using the software that came with your burner ?
[Edited 1/9/06 7:01am]

DVD shrink is a good tool but I use mostly dvd decrypter or img burn both free software also.Sadly, DVD decrypter is no longer available.You can change the applications on dvd shrink to use dvd decrypter or img burn as your burner.The problem maybe not be your writer but the dvd media itself.Non-name brand media is usually the culprit. Anyhoo,you can find free software here http://www.afterdawn.com.
[Edited 1/9/06 7:31am]

Thanks a lot you two.