Home Computer Blank CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray Discs
You can use blank CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs to save backups of important programs, keep sensitive information safe, and free up space on your computer. Blank media discs come in a variety of storage capacity sizes and formats that range from 700MB all the way past 5GB. All blank discs require a disc reader to store and retrieve information and data.
Is there a difference between DVD-R and DVD-RW?The difference between DVD-R and DVD-RW discs is how the media can be used. The DVD-R stands for recordable while DVD-RW stands for rewritable.
- The key difference between DVD-R and DVD-RW is DVD-Rs can only be used once to record and save information.
- DVD-RWs can be written on over and over again, allowing for file transfers and temporary data storage.
- Both DVD-R and DVD-RW discs offer space to store information.
What you need depends on what you are using the media for. CDs, DVDs, and Blu-rays can store a max amount of data each. If you are storing large programs, videos, or a lot of audio, you are going to need to go for a larger type, such as a DVD or Blu-ray disc. CDs have the lowest amount of storage, and a blank DVD has a bit more. Blu-ray discs offer a large amount of data storage.
Will all disc readers read a blank DVD-R?Not all disc readers will be able to read writable or rewritable CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs. The way these readers work is that a specific laser is needed to read the information stored. Oftentimes, manufacturers will create combo readers and players that allow users to read multiple types, such as combo DVD and Blu-ray players.
What is a jewel case?A jewel case simply refers to the plastic housing inside of which you can store blank DVDs or other media. Blank media with jewel cases are used to keep track of specific information stored on each CD, DVD, or Blu-ray disc. You can purchase blank DVDs with or without jewel cases or the jewel cases by themselves.
What do the terms MB and GB stand for?In computing terms, the terms MB and GB denote the storage sizes of blank DVD and other disc types. MB is short for megabytes while GB stands for gigabytes. When comparing blank DVDs, CDs, and Blu-rays, the amount of data you need to store will determine the media storage size you will need. Blank CDs offer around 800MB of data. Blank DVDs and Blu-rays can offer more than 5GB of space to store information.