Downloads

PowerISO is a facile tool that allows you to open and edit--as well as extract and add--individual files from/to a variety of CD/DVD image formats. Standard .ISO, Nero's .nrg, Roxios .cif, CloneCD's .img, Alcohol 120%'s .mdf/.mds, and the Mac's .dmg are just a few of the formats on a list that's too big to print here. The program will also burn all supported images to CD/DVD as well as convert them to your hard drive in ISO, CDRWin's .BIN or PowerISO's own proprietary .daa image format. The .daa format allows for slightly smaller images, but do everyone a favor--if you distribute a disc image, use the universally supported .ISO format so users can use their program of choice.

PowerISO also mounts images on the fly and provides a system tray Virtual Drive Manager component that can automatically mount images when Windows boots. It's no match for AnyDVD in that regard, but it's on par with the free Daemon Tools.

The program is very easy to use, if not overly stylish, and operated flawlessly in every scenario I threw at it--including the tricky task of converting some Mac .dmg images to ISO format then burning them. However, if you crack open PowerISO's EULA, you`ll notice a distinct similarity to that of competitor UltraISO's. An email from the PowerISO team denied any involvement with UltraISO, but the programs are very close in appearance and features.

UltraISO's GUI is a bit easier than UltraISO's because of its integrated file browser (PowerISO uses drag and drop or opens a dialog to add files) and it saves in the useful Nero and Alchohol formats. Fortunately, you don't have to take my word for any of this--just download the trials and decide which you want for yourself.

--Jon L. Jacobi