DVD

Overview

A Digital Versatile Disk (DVD) is a high capacity optical storage device. DVDs are ideal for storing essential data and are more reliable and convenient than other types of data storage devices. DVDs can be rewritable or non-rewritable. Data that requires frequent updates should be stored on a rewritable DVD, and if you'd like to make a permanent copy of software, files, music, or movies, you can use a single-write DVD.

DVDs have a capacity that is almost six times greater than a CD-R. A dual-layer DVD will have more storage space to save more data.

Depending on disk drive compatibility, DVDs are designated as "+" and "-". DVD-Rs and DVD+Rs are recordable, and DVD-RWs and DVD+RWs are rewritable.

The DVD+R and DVD+RW formats indicate a new double layer technology that became standard in 2008. Data can be written at high speeds of up to 24x and can be transferred from your system to the DVDs by dragging, dropping, and disc burning. DVD+R and DVD+RW formats are incompatible with DVD-R and DVD-RW formats.

For backing up data in older computers, you can use a DVD-R or DVD-RW. A spindle of 100 DVD-Rs may cost about $30 to $35, and a pack of 25 DVD-RWs costs around $15 to $20.

Benefits

DVDs are versatile and portable. DVDs are ideal for storing all kinds of data including music, video, and software. DVDs are reliable, convenient, and inexpensive. Users can randomly access stored information. Since a laser beam is used to retrieve or access a file, there are minimal chances of wear and tear. DVDs have a tough plastic surface that prevents damage to stored data by dust, dirt, or fingerprints.

How It Works

A DVD is an ideal backup media for offsite data storage. DVDs can store all essential files in a safe place. DVDs make use of three methods that enable you to store more data in a small space: data compression technology, closed packed pits, and dual-layer recording.

Data compression technology eliminates repetitive data, and closed packed pits let you save more information in a small space. With dual-layer recording, the DVD has a second physical layer within the disk, and more information can be stored. The data stored on the disk is read using laser beams.