DVD backups make a great option for storing various types of computer data. They are suitable for copying movies and saving other files, such as documents and pictures, as well. In general, digital storage mediums have basically changed the way we store data, including music files. As long as the disc is a good shape, the digital recording saved on a CD will offer the same sound quality it did the very first time, even after being played hundreds of times. This factor has made CD media an excellent alternative for data storage. Where the CD is restricted, the DVD steps up as a more capable form of storage.
CD vs. DVD
Whether it’s a DVD-R or DVD+R, the biggest difference between this medium and the typical CD is capacity. For instance, the average CD holds around 700 MB while the typical DVD is capable of storing up 4.7 GB of data. This difference is demonstrated in the file size as video files are much larger than audio files. While all DVD discs serve the same general purpose, it is important to note that all have different standards which may affect your backups. You have DVD-R, DVD+R, DVD-RW, DVD+RW and DVD-RAM. There is also Dual Layer 1:1 discs which have more capacity and better assure picture quality.
Reliable Software for Successful Backups
Although this form of storage is very useful, it only works when files are properly written to the DVD. Problems arise for many reasons, however they are usually related to DVD standards and software products that may be incompatible. This is why you should always make sure the disc was properly written and can indeed restore your data. There are reliable products available for download on the internet, such as CloneDVD.com, that will help you avoid this, as many of them support various DVD standards including DVD-R and DVD+R as well as DVD-RW and DVD+RW, which can be written to multiple times. You may also find products which support DVD-RAM, a standard more commonly used to store programs on.
Next-Generation DVDs
It is no surprise that the new generation of the DVD offers even more capacity. At one time, the competing standards were Blue-Ray and HD DVD. Blue-Ray discs offer a capacity of 25 to 50 GB with unrivaled picture quality. Unlike other technologies such as DVD-R, DVD+R and DVD-RAM that read and write data with a red laser, this new format utilizes a blue-violet laser, hence the name. Despite the difference in lasers, Blue-Ray discs are made easily compatible with typical CD and DVD media. The reign of HD DVD media was short lived as these discs only offered 15 to 30 GB. In February of 2008, its developer, Toshiba, discontinued the format, officially declaring Blue-Ray as the dominant format.
Recommendations
Whether you run a business or simply have a lot of files, every computer user should maintain a routine backup policy. Saving information on DVD media is ideal for storage but there is a lot more that goes into protecting your data. Your discs need to be physically secured to make sure it is available when data needs to be recovered. It should always be protected against dust, water, heat and particle contamination. All of these elements pose a serious threat to your data. Additionally, the DVD should be protected from scratches to prevent the corruption and loss of data. One way to achieve this protection is to store the disc in an offsite location.
