Re:
Have you tried using your external writer on another computer (friends/neighbor's). - just asked a friend to try burning with the external dvd writer today so he has it today. My other desktop is kaput ...suddenly stopped turning on and the other laptop is too old...Win 98...keeping for old times sake...still works.
You have tried other program's, as well as Roxio's and they ALL fail....its worth a try. - I used Nero 10, Ashampoo, cheetah, ...lost track on which ones
I am assuming you have updated your burners firmware/drivers. - Its updated on the laptop to the latest on the Toshiba's website. The Samsung firmware is up to date as its new. I nevertheless tried to update it but was told that its the latest firmware that is already installed.
...and yes I did do everything in the link
Resolving General Burning Issues
Knowledgebase Article : 000008GN
Issue
When burning a CD or DVD, you receive an error about your blank disc not being recognized, burning does not complete, or your media is rejected.
Resolution
Update your drive's firmware/drivers.
Enable DMA.
Your media. Check the following:
The disc is clean and unused.
The media is recommended by your burner's manufacturer or try a different brand, preferably a name brand, if you continue to have problems.
Make sure that media (-R/+R, -/+RW, dual-layer compatibility) is supported by the burner by checking burner's manual or manufacturer's website. This is especially true for some Blu-Ray burners which do not support CD-R/RW media.
Lower the write speed of your burner.
If your burner is external, make sure it is connected directly to the computer via USB/Firewire and not a hub or other other device like a sound card.
Update to the latest PX Engine. The PX Engine improves compatibility with newer burners on the market.
A reinstall of the burner's drivers.