If the CD was done as a data CD, the presentation will be a file on the CD, probably either .mp3 or .wav. It can be copied from the CD just like other files on disks in your computer.

If the CD was created as a music or audio CD, designed for playing in CD players, then it will take a few more steps to get the information in a regular file on your computer. You can use either Windows Media Player or a program like Free Rip, which is a free program available at freerip.com.

To get the file off the CD and in .wav or .mp3 format in Windows Media Player, put the CD in the drive and start Windows Media Player. Check the sections you want converted and saved on your computer, or the program will convert and save all of them. Click the Rip menu and choose Format, which allows you to choose what format you want the file to be in on your computer.

In the Options choice on the Rip menu, you can choose where the files will save to. The default location is to C:\users\

The files are now on your computer to use.

Remember if it is copyrighted material, you must have permission to make copies beyond what is allowed in your license.

Send your questions to Dwight Watt at dwight@dwightwatt.com. He teaches at a technical college in northwest Georgia and does consulting work for businesses and individuals. His website is www.dwightwatt.com.