By Kire Terzievski, RMIT Test Labs
June 18th, 2002.
Media
Media capacity has increased, as has the demand for more storage space. The DVD-ROM, DVD-Video, and DVD-Audio formats have vast storage capacity options. The variation in storage capacity is due to the use of up to two layers of data storage and a choice of either single-sided or double-sided capabilities of the DVD disc.- DVD-5 single-sided, single-layer disc. Capacity 4.7GB.
- DVD-9 single-sided, dual-layer disc. Capacity 8.5GB.
- DVD-10 double-sided, single-layer disc. Capacity 9.4GB.
- DVD-18 double-sided, dual-layer disc. Capacity 17.0GB.
The various recordable and rewritable formats use different combinations of these capacities.
- DVD-R: single- or double-sided, single-layer disc. Capacity 4.7GB - 9.4GB.
- DVD-RW: single- or double-sided, single-layer disc. Capacity 4.7GB - 9.4GB.
- DVD+R: single- or double-sided, single-layer disc. Capacity 4.7GB - 9.4GB.
- DVD+RW: single- or double-sided, single-layer disc. Capacity 4.7GB - 9.4GB.
- DVD-RAM: single- or double-sided, single-layer disc. Capacity 2.6GB - 9.4GB.
Software
There is some good mastering software out there which lets users create backup copies of DVDs and CDs, as well as video, music and data discs. All the software we received was easy to use. Basically, you only have to drag and drop files you want to record. Some drives also come with packet writing software, which will enable your drive to be used in the same way as a floppy drive or removable drive. Packet writing uses the UDF standard, which will let you drag and drop files onto the media.
Prices
Media cost varies from reseller to reseller, but here are some sample prices we found. All prices include GST.- Pioneer 4.7GB single-sided DVD-R: $17
- Pioneer 4.7GB single-sided DVD-RW: $27
- Ricoh 4.7GB single-sided DVD+R: $17.95
- Ricoh 4.7GB single-sided DVD+RW: $21.95
- Maxell 4.7GB single-sided DVD-RAM: $39.95
We reviewed rewritable DVD drives from five major vendors. We also submitted invitations to Hitachi, Hewlett-Packard, Que, and Sony, who were unable to submit products for the review. Here's how they went:
6%
1%
