What’s the capacity of a CD?
A standard CD has a capacity of 700MB.
What’s the capacity of a DVD-R?
A DVD-R can hold 4.7GB.
What is a CD-R/DVD-R?
CD-R stands for Compact Disc-Recordable and DVD-R stands for
Digital Video Disc-Recordable. For both types of discs, data is burned directly to the blank disc one at
a time. This is typically the most cost effective in low runs or when a quick turn is needed. We use
blank recordable media where the data or audio is perfectly duplicated on the playing side of the disc
by a series of dark dots and dashes burned into a photosensitive layer by a laser beam at a high
temperature. When the recordable media is played, it translates the dots and dashes back into the
original data or music from your master.
What is a CD-ROM/DVD-ROM?
CD-ROM stands for Compact Disc Read Only Memory and DVD-ROM
is Digital Versatile Disc Read Only Memory. During creation of these discs, your master disc is used
to create a glass master, which is then in turn used to create stamper molds. Data is stamped using high
speed injection molding process and an exact copy of your master disc is 'pressed'. The data or audio is
perfectly replicated by a series of pits and lans on the shiny playing side of the disc. ROMs are most
cost effective in larger numbers and have a longer turnaround.
How do I provide the data I want copied?
Customers need to provide data to be copied on a fully
functional CD-R or DVD-R (unless you have made prior arrangements with Customer Service). Please avoid
the use of CD-RW or DVD-RW media when supplying masters for duplication. The copy process employed by
Image Source will provide an exact duplicate of the master.
How do I create a master?
The following is a set of basic instructions for creating a
CD master:
- Create your master using a CD-R disc, not CD-RW.
- Select the option for single track or disc-at-once from your copy software.
- Select the software option to finalize and close the disc.
- When given a choice of data mode, select Mode 1 or CD-ROM mode for data.
- Test your disc thoroughly before sending for duplication as your copies will be an exact replica of
the master we receive.
(Please note these steps do not apply for Audi, CDI, CD-Extra or mixed mode.) You are welcome to request
a verification copy, known as a "First Article", of your master prior to actual duplication.
However, if you choose to receive a First Article, it may add time to your actual turnaround.
For DVD-R media, the process is somewhat similar. Whenever possible, you want to use a DVD-R drive to
create your master. If you have a DVD+R drive or other type of DVD recordable drive, there may be some
compatibility issues. If any compatibility issues arise, we will create a First Article for you to
approve prior to proceeding with your job. Once we have a suitable master, we can easily make copies
on our automated multiple drive DVD-R copiers. Also, make certain you do not use a DVD-RW or DVD+RW disc
to make your content master as these discs are not readable.
What if I need help creating a CD or DVD master?
Image Source provides full mastering services for those
customers who do not wish to master their own. We offer a variety of services including: conversions,
installing Autorun features, hybrid, watermarking and more. Please contact your sales or customer
service for more details.
What are the common terms and formats for CDs?
- ISO9660 - Level 1: The original file CD data format uses a DOS file format of 8 characters
followed by a dot and a 3-character extension.
- ISO9660 - Level 2: A newer extention of the ISO9660 format allowing filenames with up to 31
characters. Recognized by all major Operating systems including Windows, MAC, and Unix.
- JOLIET: Based on ISO9660, it allows additional characters, including spaces, and names up to
256 characters long. You should still include only one dot immediately before the 3-charcter
extension.
- HYBRID (PC/Mac): Uses MAC HFS format and PC ISO9660 or Joliet on the same CD, allowing the
one CD to be played in either a PC or a Mac.
- MULTI-SESSION: Data is recorded to a single CD-R in several sessions. A CD-R recorded in a
multi-session format can not be used as a master to replicate CD-ROMs.
- MODE 1: Uses 2048 bytes for user data plus a third layer of error detection. This Mode
provides the highest integrity for computer data.
- MODE 2: uses 2336 bytes for user data with no third layer of error detection. This mode
was designed for multi-media graphics and video. The most common format is CD-ROM-XA.
- PRE-GAP/ POST-GAP: empty lengths of track which are placed before and after the track.
What are the DVD-ROM formats?
- DVD-5 Single Layer, Single-sided - 4.7 GB / 135 min
- DVD-9 Double Layer, Single-sided - 8.5 GB / 245 min
- DVD-10 Single Layer, Double-sided - 9.4 GB / 270 min
- DVD-18 Double layer, Double-sided - 17 GB / 490 min
Do you virus test masters before copying?
Yes, we do virus test all incoming masters. All masters are
scanned on a PC or a MAC with virus detection software. All attempts are made to keep the scanning
software up to date, but we cannot be responsible for virus code on your master. Virus detection on an
original master is ultimately the customer’s responsibility.
What is an IPR form?
IPR form stands for Intellectual Property Rights form. It
is an internationally recognized form that protects the original developer and ensures that all copies
of software are done so in a legal manner. All CD-ROM and DVD-ROM replication projects require
Intellectual Property Rights Form filled out, signed and submitted with the CD-R Master.
What’s the difference between Everest print, silk screen and thermal print?
While all three types of printing are placed directly onto
the disc, each process varies along with the finished product. All three types of printing allow you
to choose to print on either a silver CD or a white flood CD.
Thermal print is the most basic and fastest type at 300 dpi (dots per inch). This is a great option
for basic, low cost printing needs. Single color printing allows for either all black, royal blue,
or red. You may also select a two-tone or full color CMY print.
Everest print provides amazing photo-realistic, completely permanent printing at 160 lpi
(lines per inch). This option also utilizes a type of thermal technology by Rimage. The color and
clarity of the final product is quite amazing and is a great choice for short turns, smaller runs,
and/or individualized discs. The quality rivals silk screen and print images.
Silk screening provides a high-end, color controlled printing option. This process utilizes
actual inks and allows for exact PMS color matches. Silk screening is perfect for larger runs or when
there’s no compromising on the color.
How do I submit my artwork?
Image Source needs to receive an electronic copy of your
artwork either via ftp or a hard copy disc. Requirements vary for each type of printing so please
contact your customer service representative for a template and specifications prior to submitting your
work. If needed, Image Source can make required adjustments for an additional charge.
What’s your average turnaround?
Turnaround time varies depending on a variety of factors
ranging from the type of service you selected, volume, availability, and packaging type. For CD-Rs &
DVD-Rs that are either Everest or thermal printed, turnaround is 1-3 days. Silk screening can vary
from 3-7 days. CD-ROMs and DVD-ROMs typically take two weeks. Your customer service representative
will be able to provide you with a specific turnaround time for your order.
Do you lease or rent hardware equipment?
Yes, we work with a number of leasing companies who will
work directly with you that provide a variety of leasing options. We also offer rental units if
needed. Please contact your sales representative for more details.
What is Hexalock?
Hexalock is a copy protection technology that Image Source
uses to protect CD-R's and CD-ROM's. It also provides security features such as the original disc being
required to run a software program. Contact customer service for more information about our copy
protection services.
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