December 2, 2010
How to Get More out of Your Dual Layer DVD
The next era of DVD might be considered the dual layer. Even though there have been advances in blue laser technology particularly the Blue Ray, DVDs are still the preferred option for most persons. Furthermore with the price of DVD players as they are currently, the popularity of DVD technology will likely be maintained for some time. Dual layer DVDs (DVD DL) are regularly called DVD 9.
DVD Dual Layer Explained
A regular DVD will only permit the user to hold up to 4.7 GB of information or just around 2 hours worth of DVD formatted movies or MPEG2 video. This is a setback mainly for movies that might be much lengthier or if extra commentary and content is needed on the same DVD. Subsequently the dual layer caters to this issue by providing 8.5 GB of space and about 4 hours of DVD formatted videos. The dual layer permits this by having two layers incorporated into one layer. So while viewing a video that has been placed on a dual layer DVD, for example the Lord of the Rings that runs for 3 and a half hours, you will notice a slight pause in between when the player switches from layer to layer. For some customers this might be frustrating especially when it is assumed that the DVD is not working properly. But, this occurs because of the transparent layering method employed to make the two layers. The DVD player’s laser will change between the first and second layer by sending the beam from the first layer unto the second layer.
Recording On and Playing DVD Dual Layer
Burning on a dual layer DVD will require a special writer many of these are affordable and can also write normal DVDs and CDs. Once you are in the market for a new DVD burner, ask about those that are DVD dual layer ready. Also check online for free DVD Burning software, this you could get this here very easily. This initial specification means that you will need to buy a new DVD if you are switching to this technology.
How to Get More Out of Your Dual Layer
While the technology does permit you to store large formatted DVD files you can in fact enlarge the number of movies you can put on your DVD by writing in MPEG-4 format or AVI. Any of the two platforms will cut down your video size to about a quarter of the size of a regular movie. For instance a standard video will use around 3.8 GB of storage, that movie transferred to AVI will only require 700-800 MB of space. The quality will not be far reduced either; most decoders will create a relatively clean AVI or MPEG-4 video file. But, to play the DVD will require a MPEG4 player which is moderately inexpensive to purchase and in the long term will save you money on your DVD charges.
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