Mac OS X Disk Utility: Best Features

In addition to partitioning internal and external hard drives, the OS X hard disk utility offers other interesting functions - for example for CD and DVD. In this practical tip, we will show you the most useful functions.

Function 1: Erase a CD / DVD-RW using the hard disk utility

You can use the hard disk utility to erase rewritable CDs or DVDs and then use them again:

1. Insert the CD / DVD to be deleted and call up the hard disk utility via "Programs" -> "Utilities" -> "Hard disk utility".
2. Select the DVD drive icon in the left column.
3. Now click on the [Delete] button in the right window and select the desired deletion method.
4. Then click on [Delete] again and confirm the confirmation prompt that you really want to delete the data carrier.

Function 2: Create images from CD / DVD

You can use the hard disk utility to archive or duplicate CDs / DVDs, but you can also access data without the disk in the drive. Just create an image:

1. Insert the CD / DVD you want to image and launch the hard disk utility.
2. In the left column, click the DVD drive icon
3. Now select the "New Image" option in the menu bar.
4. In the window that opens, you can now select the storage location, the image format and the desired encryption.
5. Click on [Save], then the image is created.
6. Now call up the image file via the Finder and use it like the data carrier itself.

Function 3: Restore a CD / DVD from the image

Would you like to restore a CD / DVD from the image? No problem with the following three steps:

1. Insert a blank CD / DVD and launch the hard disk utility.
2. Click the DVD drive icon in the left column and then select "Burn" from the menu bar.
3. In the window that opens, select the relevant image file and then click the [Burn] button.

Learn how to partition a hard drive under OS X here.