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DVD
DVD is an acronym for either “Digital Video Disc” or “Digital Versatile Disc”. DVDs are most commonly used for distributing movies and software application.
Blank or recordable DVDs can be used to record movies or store all kinds of digital files, similar to a CD-R. A standard DVD stores 4.7 GB of data. A dual-layered DVD can store 8.5 GB of data.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many minutes of video can be stored on a DVD?
Unlike CDs, which have a specific amount of audio that can be burned to a disc, DVD technology is capable of supporting a number of different video formats. Consequently, there is no specific length of video that can be stored on a DVD. DVD videos are limited by size rather than length, though formats capable of squeezing more content onto a disc will, as a general rule, result in poorer quality video playback.
Can I write to DVDs?
Similar to CDs, some DVDs are read-only, while others can be written to. Movies and software DVDs you purchase online or in store are most often read-only, meaning you can view the content of those discs, but you cannot write to or erase the discs. In order to write to a DVD, you need to purchase special DVD-R or DVD+R discs. Write speeds and compatibility vary, so make sure to review your DVD burner’s specifications before purchasing. If you plan on creating a video disc, you should review the specs for your DVD player as well, because some may not support recordable discs, or may only support certain varieties. DVD-RW and DVD+RW are rewritable discs, which means you can write to and erase a disc repeatedly.
What equipment do I need to read DVD content?
DVD movies can be viewed on any DVD player, Blu-ray player, and a computer equipped with a DVD or Blu-ray drive. DVD and Blu-ray players may also be capable of playing other media files recorded on a DVD, including MP3 music files. In order to read data or software contents on a DVD, you will need a computer with a DVD or Blu-ray drive.
How do DVDs store information?
DVD technology utilizes a continuous spiral that runs from the inside of a disc to its outer edge. Along that spiral, information is stored in pits and grooves, which a laser interprets as ones and zeros (binary data). This is essentially the same technology used in CDs; however, DVD technology reduces the space required for pits, grooves, between tracks, etc. in order to increase the storage capacity.