Worzel,
If you're running on Windows ME or XP, there is a windows program called "system restore" which you should try before you reinstall all your bits. If you run it, you will not lose any inportant info. What it does it to restore the computer settings to a previous date. If it doesn't help, you can easily undo the restore operation.
Go to START on the toolbar, then PROGRAMS- SYSTEM TOOLS-SYSTEM RESTORE. Choose "restore my computer to an earlier time"
Pick a date when you are sure that the CDRW was okay.
PINKIE..