ok i have a hp cd-writer cd16 series burner, and if i try to use the burning software that comes with it, it has the same symptoms nero does. this is the exact problem nero has, which i found on this faq.

5)Why does Nero/Nero Express always stop to burn at about 2%-3% during the writing process? The Nero Error log shows a Power Calibration Error, or Power Calibration Error Full Error Message.

5) Power Calibration is controlled by the recorder. Before any write operation, all recorders must do a 15 step power test to determine the optimum power for writing to the CD; this is called "Optimum Power Calibration"(OPC). And during the write, it continues to do this test to get the best write throughout the whole CD; this is called "Running Optimum Power Calibration" (ROPC). This whole process is controlled by the recorder, though initiated by programs such as Nero. There is an area on the inner part of the CD for the test and test data info to be stored. You can use this area up to 999 times.
So, when you receive the "Power Calibration Error" or "Power Calibration Area full" error message, then the cause will be either poor media, poor Power, or a defective Recorder.

POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS:
1) A Firmware Update might enable the OPC on this medium
2) Try another brand of CDR or CDRW media.
3) Some of these symptoms can also be caused by poor power or power fluctuations.
So try different power connectors, and for recorders, do not share power with other devices. It needs its own power connector. If this occurs with an External recorder, the power source in the chassis could be the cause. Take the recorder out of the external chassis, and make into an internal, as a test.
4) Try different configurations, such as taking the CDROM to the Primary IDE bus as Slave, and have only the recorder connected to the Secondary IDE bus as Master.
5) Send the recorder in for Service.

any other thoughts of how to fix this or what could cause the burning to stop at that 3% mark. it just seems like it is going to begin to burn, then just won't. my red light that tells me its burning comes on for a second, then quickly shuts off. thoughts?