What is DVD-R?

DVD-R discs are the recordable version of the popular DVD format. DVD-R discs have the same physical size as CD-R, but can hold as much as seven times the amount of data. Current DVD-R format allows for 4.7GB of storage. The increased storage capacity lends itself to applications like media presentations, data archiving, and large volume data distribution. You must have a DVD drive in order to read a DVD-R disc.


What is the difference between a DVD-ROM and a DVD-R copy?

DVD-ROM discs are produced by physically stamping encoded information onto a poly carbonate substrate. As with the CD-ROM, data is transferred to a master stamper and replicates are produced by pressing the discs from the master. DVD-R discs have a recordable dye that when exposed to a concentrated laser beam allows information to be encoded or burned into the disc.


How do I get copies made of DVD-R to distribute?

Make one copy of your DVD-R master and provide it to us. Use a DVD-R drive wherever possible. If you have a DVD+R drive or other type of DVD recordable drive, there may be some compatibility issues in using masters created in those drives. We will create a verification copy for you to proof should any compatibility issues arise. Once we have a suitable master we can make copies on our automated multiple drive DVD-R copiers.


Important! Can all DVD-ROM drives read the DVD-R copies I need to distribute?

At this time, industry surveys suggest that 70% to 90% of all DVD-ROM drives can read DVD-R copies. Early generations of DVD-ROM drives have compatibility issues which prevent the DVD-R format from being 100% compatible. To achieve the highest level of playability in the field you should use the highest quality media available and apply stringent copy and verify procedures when duplicating your discs.


How do I label my DVD-R discs?

All the same choices you have with CD-R are also available for DVD-R. Diversified Systems can screen print, thermal print, or apply 2400 DPI custom printed labels to your disc. All printing is performed in-house. We also offer full art/design services to our customers.


What are my packaging options for DVD-R?

Both traditional CD packaging and newer DVD packaging are available. There are many choices depending on your application and budget. Diversified Systems has an extensive inventory of packaging items and is capable of producing in-house many of the custom printed inserts, liners, sleeves, and folders you may require.


I see several different types of DVD recordable dives on the market. What are the differences?

At this time DVD-R is the clear choice for small run data and content distribution. Runs with larger quantity requirements and longer lead times should still consider DVD-ROM replicated discs. The remaining formats have specialized applications including the ability to record and re-write multiple times to the same disc. Below is a listing of the various DVD drive and disc offering. It is meant to provide a simple overview of the many offerings now in the marketplace. If you require specific answers to questions, please contact a Diversified Systems representative. We’ll be glad to help.

  • DVD-R
    • Write-once recordable format.
    • Currently offers the highest level of compatibility for playback in DVD-ROM drives.
    • Comes in two different formats (general purpose & authoring).
    • General purpose is the clear choice for data and content distribution.
    • Authoring format is used for providing masters when making DVD-ROM discs
  • DVD+R
    • Write once variation of DVD-RW+ introduced in early 2002.
    • Promises increased compatibility in DVD video players and DVD-ROM drives.
    • Requires DVD+R drives and media designated as DVD+R for recording.
  • DVD-RW
    • Format allows for applications requiring rewritable media.
    • Not as compatible with DVD-ROM drives as DVD-R.
    • Typically must be erased before rewriting.

  • DVD+RW
    • Format allows for applications requiring rewritable media.
    • Has the ability to rewrite without erasing contents of entire disc.

  • DVD-RAM
    • Format typically used for data storage and retrieval, not data and content distribution.
    • Incompatibility issues reading from drives other than DVD-RAM drives.


Click here to view DVD compatibility chart….


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Diversified Systems Group, Inc.
Redmond, WA - 800-255-3142