DVD Recordable Compatibility Issues
An issue that comes up now and then is one that we unfortunately have a hard time explaining to our customers - the issue of DVD-r compatibility. Let me first explain quickly the difference between a burned (duplicated) DVD-r and a pressed (replicated) DVD.
A replicated DVD is usually done here at GLMT on quantities 500 and greater. Very few (if any) compatibility issues arise from this process because all players are designed to read a pressed disc.
A duplicated DVD-r is the process of burning discs in towers - similar to a home computer burn. This is usually done on quantities less than 500. The problems that lie within this process are more than one...
1. Due to the different reflectivity of DVD-r, not all players are designed to read this format.
2. The variables involved in computers - customer's may have to download certain software to play the DVD-r (in older PC's you may have to upgrade your windows media player).
3. Another issue may lie in the authoring of the disc - GLMT can author your disc to ensure the highest probability of compatibility.
4. Poor quality media - here at Great Lakes we use the highest quality Taiyo Yuden Grade A media for all burning.
5. Playing a DVD-r in a CD drive - Funny yes, but it's happened more than once.
And finally, sometimes we're not really sure. It may play in your set top player, but not in your computer. Or it may work in your PC, but not a Mac. Because of the number of variables involved, it is difficult for us to pinpoint the exact problem. Studies show that about 85% of all DVD-r's will play in existing drives and players.
For the highest compatibility, let GLMT handle your project. We can author your disc, use top quality burning media, and test your disc among a number of players.
Have you had problems with DVD recordables?
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