Q:

How do I format a DVD-RW?

I have a dvd-RW-   /  Ubuntu (nautilus and KB3) recognise this DVD as DVD with restricted overwrite.  So i cannot reuse that DVD.  I had to pass in Windows - make him completely empty there, and return in Ubuntu.  Then everything work normal. (recognise the DVD as sequential).  Is there a explanation and a better solution?   
Neither KB3 neither the terminal command: BD/DVD±RW/-RAM format utility by , version 7.1. :-( mounted media doesn't appear to be DVD±RW, DVD-RAM or Blu-ray. * In this case the DVD was make "empty" with KB3. When I redo the same in Windows, it will work in Ubuntu. 

A:

There are a couple of different options. I think the easiest is:
dvd+rw-format -force=full /dev/sr0

I also think that is the one most commonly already installed on your system. I think there's an option in k3b to blank it for you... Oh, just found it, under tools->format/erase rewritable disk. Back in the day we would just do a dd and write zeros over the whole disk, lol. Good luck!

