I'm confused. I'm looking for a printer that prints on CDs and DVDs. All the Canon ip4500s I notice have no mention of printing on Cds/Dvds. Are there two types of these printers? Or did one run of these printers include the function and then the rest don't? Canon's own website doesn't mention it.

I think it might be safer to go with the Epson R280 even if it's not as good because at least there is no doubt about it. This feature or function doesn't seeem to be very popular as there's no other options?

For the U.S. model of IP4500 you have to buy the disk print tray and set it up to accept the print tray.Print tray and instructions and software download link available on Ebay.
Here one I found:
http://cgi.ebay.com/Canon-iP4300-MP9...742.m153.l1262

Okay, thanks. That will do.

What are the options for software then?

I want something 'freeware' or preferably, that will work in Linux.

If not, I can boot into XP or use a Virtual program and do it that way via XP. I guess the problem seems to be having it print exactly on the DVD/CD and have it centered?

I am flexible with the printing as long as the ink isn't washed out or that the ink doesn't smudge.

I watched someone use a thermal printer that prints directly on the disc except that the ribbon cartridges are extremely expensive so I was looking into using an inkjet printer.

I don't want to print labels on top of the CD/DVD but to print actual text on a thermal printable DVD or onto 'hub / inkjet printable' DVDs.

But, I am wondering what the software options are for that.

I've never had a Canon printer only Epson. Are the Epson's so bad not to recommend them?

My Epsons do very well printing to media. I have a R200 and a R800. I don't think either one does nearly as well just printing text and pics to normal paper like My HP 990 does, and they do tend to drink ink but I don't think they're horrible. I think that the lesser Epson was nicer looking in media print quality, the 800 uses different ink and is harder to get the color and black level just right, plus compatible inks are hard to find now.
Epson started suing evryone making compoatibles so that slowed down getting cheap ink for a while but it seems most of them are back now, except for my 800
I hate paying 70 bucks for carts that last a short time when I can get compatibles that are just as good for like 20 or so a set shipped. My first carts cost me more then I paid for the R200...