LightScribe--how does it work (software)?

For those who have LightScribe drives:

I know that the current version of Nero has full support for LightScribe, but how does it work on our HP laptops? Are there drivers that need to be installed? Or is it all contained within Nero? Is there an installer for its own software and/or a startup service (like how Bluetooth works)? Shell integration?

Thanks.

EDIT: just did some research. LightScribe has their own "LightScribe Software System" that's only ~5.2MB. I downloaded it on my current comp (no LightScribe) and I can't even find where it installed anything, since I deleted the shortcuts). Since the Triple Play guide and HP's drivers page don't even MENTION LightScribe at all, I'm assuming Vista has built-in LightScribe support?

 

It does not work with any CD burner. The CD burner needs to be modified for LightScribe and you do need the LightScribe software, which is free.

I have been using it for a couple of months and it's OK. It basically creates a chemical reaction on the colored side of the CD. The image is monochromatic. You can create and burn your own images, too. Or photos, or any image.

There have been rumors of multi-color LighScribe CDs/DVDs, but none have hit market yet, AFAIK.

Good basic info at HP's LightScribe FAQ.

Good technical article from the DevHardware Site.

 

Hey sanpablo guy, I got a LightScribe drive with my laptop. I just would like to know how I make it work--do I have to install extra drivers/software etc.

And does it have a startup service (like how Bluetooth starts up with your computer and hides in the tray, etc.)?

Thx.

 

The drivers should be installed with the system and support should be included with some kind of burning software. You will also need lightscribe disks.

 

Nero will walk you through it.

Basically, you gets your files ready to burn, design the cover you want (text, images, song titles, whatever), and burn the CD. When it's time to burn the label, Nero will prompt you. Just flip the disk over, put it back in the burner, and let it go.

There's no startup service and there's nothing extra to install. It's really pretty simple.

 

OK thanks for the info.

I guess robvia just didn't get the LightScribe option with his dv6500t or it wasn't offered at the time he wrote his Triple Play Guide, since he provides specific drivers to most other options, even other laptops.

 

LightScribe isn't offered on all machines and has only been around for a couple of years.

If your CD burning drive has the LightScribe logo on it, it will create the LightScribe labels. No logo, no LightScribe. Doesn't matter if you have the software.

 

^Yes, I am aware. I ordered the LightScribe option with my HP laptop, which happens to be the same model as in robvia's guide. He seems to have mentioned every option possible on all related laptops and "maxed out" the laptop he demonstrated the guide on, so I was just curious as to why LightScribe might not have been mentioned.

 

Also bear in mind that you have to use special lightscribe discs. You can't just use any writeable disc.

 

^Yeah. I don't plan to use it at all, was trying to figure out how it worked so I could possibly remove one more startup service in msconfig. I don't need designer-graphic disc surfaces--it's not like I'm going to try to sell burned discs!

 

where did u get your notebook? directly from hp, or at a retail store?
because usually they install the software but the drive is not capable of lightscibe. just like bloatware, things you dont need unless you need it when u have the hardware.

heres how it works. go to nero express>labels> lighscribe(usually the first on the list with the logo) make the design> wait about 30 min (if u want the quality at BEST) and your done.

personally i dont really use it that much because its kind of slow, but i do use it when i make video projects and try to make it professional looking.

 

I got it from Costco.com, it had the "FREE UPGRADE TO LIGHTSCRIBE DRIVE WITH DUAL-LAYER" etc.etc.

 

LightScribe works for CDs too, right? I've been seeing a lot of people talk about DVDs.

 

Just the other day I used my lightscribe for the first time. I must say its much better than using a permant marker. I burned my HP Vista recovery cd's with some graphics, a label, and CD1/CD2. Worked first try and its a decent image on the cd. The image is a bit blurry but readable and professional looking. Overall I'm glad I upgraded to the lighscribe drive.

Hachisuave - I don't think I've seen any vanilla cd's with lightscribe, only DVD's.

-Reby