i'm trying to burn some files to a DVD-R in K3b. However, K3b constantly gives me an error:

Found media: DVD+R(empty)

Please insert an empty medium (DVD+-R(W)) into drive
The DVD-R in the drive is fine and blank and the same disk/files can be burned in Windows. Is there some configuration that needs to be done?

Also, every time i reboot my PC K3b seemingly forgets the DVD Writer (" no writer found" error) and i have to add it again in K3b Setup. Anyone know how to make sure it's remembered?