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An application that allows users to mount virtual drives to their desktop and run programs

An application that allows users to mount virtual drives to their desktop and run programs

Vote: (2 votes)

Program license: Free to Try

Developer: Power Software Ltd

Version: 7.7

Works under: Windows

Vote:

Program license

(2 votes)

Free to Try

Developer

Version

Power Software Ltd

7.7

Works under:

Windows

Pros

  • Manages a wide range of image file types
  • Features a virtual disc processing and mounting mode
  • Rips and burns, compresses and extracts files
  • Uses sector-by-sector data mirroring
  • Operates on CD, DVD and Blu-ray discs
  • Download versions available in 32-bit or 64-bit copies
  • Integrates with the Windows shell

Cons

  • The stripped back user interface isn't always user-friendly
  • Trial version limitations
  • Many features are now part of Windows 10

Using PowerISO, file archiving computer users can create and manage CD/DVD images. The software mounts, opens, extracts, and otherwise manipulate various ISO file formats with ease. Store that image or create a permanent, perfect copy of its contents simply by using the ISO burning feature, which is handily built into the application.

Classed as a capable disc management and image archiving program, PowerISO is designed to perform as a third-party disc copying, burning and editing utility. It's a free to download and free to use disc processing tool, one that provides a no-nonsense user interface. Of particular interest here, the software manages all of the familiar physical disc mediums that spin in computer trays, but it also features a virtual disc processing mode. Use that mode to effectively mount images as imitation physical drives. Once an image is loaded into the program interface, it presents itself as a second or third physical drive within a computer's file management window. Mount up to 23 virtual drives, even if the computer lacks a physical drive bay.

Besides the creation of fully working imitation discs, PowerISO also comes equipped with a sturdy set of standard disc manipulating tools. The utility can rip audio discs, create and burn exact disc copies, sector by sector, and it can even handle BD image files, which takes the program up above CD and DVDs, and straight into Blu-ray territory. Then, if the complete manipulation of all disc mediums isn't already enough, PowerISO is also designed to create various bootable media formats, including bootable compact discs and bootable USB drives. Editing image ISO files, compressing and extracting the files on 32-bit and 64-bit Windows computers, the tools contained within the spartan interface are many.

Again, the third-party disc utility is free to use, but there are a few limitations to be aware of during the free user period. For starters, nag messages are likely. More bothersome, however, the software will only work with 300MB files. When the software is purchased, this limitation is removed. Fortunately, there's a 30-day money back guarantee. If the buyer finds the disc image utility lacks a desired feature, then their money can be reimbursed. Before leaving this shortcomings section, it should also be noted that the interface is stripped back, but it's not always user-friendly. Designed for speed and performance, that no-nonsense aspect could be a tad more intuitive to use.

Pros

  • Manages a wide range of image file types
  • Features a virtual disc processing and mounting mode
  • Rips and burns, compresses and extracts files
  • Uses sector-by-sector data mirroring
  • Operates on CD, DVD and Blu-ray discs
  • Download versions available in 32-bit or 64-bit copies
  • Integrates with the Windows shell

Cons

  • The stripped back user interface isn't always user-friendly
  • Trial version limitations
  • Many features are now part of Windows 10