Have new TDK 440n, no software . NERO says not supported, pc runs fine, can play dvds & cds,but cant record? Win 98? Pc says this device is not ready.?

Nero supported recorders section has no such model listed. Please check the link below and try to determine which TDK model you have. When found it will tell you what version of Nero is required.
When you get that error, it simply means that version did not support your recorder in this version. You most likely need a newer Nero version. :)

http://www.nero.com/us/ns4_632012038142166.php?manu=TDK&lang=en