I have a dell 4700 with a phillips DVD+-RW burner. First of, would that be considered a "dual layer" DVD burner? Secondly, I have about 8 gigs of data I want to back up. What would be the best DVD type to burn on?

It depends on the actual model of drive. But if it is DUAL layer it should tell you so. Look for the model number on it and do a Google search for it to see the full details. Also the paperwork that was supplied with your computer might give you this info.

But according ot this review for it, it does not have one.
http://www.pcworld.com/reviews/article/0,aid,117516,00.asp

So should I use DVD-r or DVD+r disks?

I use DVD+RW for re-writable disks
and
DVD-R disks for write to keep disks

You should be able to use the same combination.

Thanks :cool: !

Adding my own confusion to the mix... :D

On Newegg I was looking for a DVD burner...The burners say DVD+ but all the disks say DVD R-...

http://www.newegg.com/ProductSort/Category.asp?Category=10

What am I missing?

Whyx
I chose one drive at random from the page and did a search on it. It looks like Newegg has gotten it wrong. See link below
Or maybe the yolks on those folks who believe all they read :D

http://www.directron.com/nd3540as.html