CDR Sam

Recordable Dual Layer DVD Media

July 12, 2009 | Recordable DVDs

I think most of us would agree DVD-R is the clear winner in the single layer recordable realm but DVD+R rules in the dual layer world. Dual layer multiplies the storage capacity of a recordable DVD to over 8GB making it unnecessary to span discs single layer DVD+R discs.

Dual layer dvd discs do cost more, almost three times the amount of a single sided DVD recordable disc but in recording a video stream that is over standard length (feature length) it is useful.  It’s actually two layers: two recording layers with a special laser sensitive dye  stacked on top of one another that the laser focuses on (selectively).  Some of you may wonder why this can not be done in more layers?….    Very difficult.  Not impossible but very difficult to do it economically.  Two dye layers appear to be difficult enough considering the quality of dual layer DVDs. Verbatim seems to still rule with FTI and Ritek, CMC pulling up the rear.  Then again Verbatim makes some not so good discs but this is looked at as branding to specific low margin markets.  Singapore made dual layer plus R blanks really are the cream of the crop.

• DVD-R and DVD+R are Write Once Read Many discs, referred to as  WORM.
• DVD-RW and DVD-RW are rewritable discs that use phase change technology to record and erase data
• DVD+R DL (and one flavor in -R) is for dual layer.