Okay, you've convinced me that a CD-R is the way to go. I was particularly curious about using a 2nd HD. I'd already decided that Zip disks are NOT economical-altho' they were a logical choice when I bought the computer and specified an internal zip drive. I know the CD's are cheap-its that initial investment, but I've already seen that it will be recouped eventually (over zips). Thanks for all the input. It really does help when you get feedback from folks actually having to deal with the same problem. Diane B.