Looking to duplicate a DVD?
Understanding the Difference between Disk Duplication and Replication
CD or DVD duplication is a quick, economical and convenient process of creating multiple copies for a
variety of uses. In corporate sectors, it is used for instructional videos, media presentations, training
manuals, reports, product catalogues and the like. Moreover, it has been used more creatively in
the commercial world for software releases, music albums, films, games and eBooks. Whatever the
objective is, disc duplication is certainly a great way of data/audio/video storage and delivery. Virtually
every corporate company, non-profit organizations and individuals can make the best use of DVD
duplication to meet their needs.
In order to use disk production to your advantage, you must understand how this process actually works, and
learn how duplication is different from replication.
DVD Duplication
DVD Duplication refers to the process of copying data on a pre-made disc, also called Digital Versatile
Disk-Recordable (DVD-R). First, the disk is loaded into the burner where data is extracted from the
master DVD through digital means. Then, the data is pasted into the DVD-R by using a small laser found
in burners or duplicators. After that, the machine verifies the transferred data to make sure if the
duplication has taken place successfully.
Once duplication is complete, the disc is moved to the printing section, where thermal printers print
onto the surface of each new DVD-R or CD-R. Since this process involves minimal setup expenses, it is
more convenient and less expensive as compared to the replication process. Therefore, duplication is
generally recommended given that a small quantity of discs, preferably less than 1000 discs, is required.
DVD Replication
DVD Replication is aprofessional process in which fresh copies of DVDs are manufactured and then data
is copied through automated machines. In this process, raw material is loaded into large disc-molding
machines for the production of basic DVDs. A separate glass master DVD is also created to store the
original data from the client's source. This data, then, is physically pressed into the blank DVDs, which
are further protected with a coating of polycarbonate plastic.
DVD replication is a fully automated process that involves automatic machines for making discs from
scratch and then creating replica from glass-made DVD. It takes longer time, generally two weeks or so,
than that is needed in simple duplication. However, in terms of per unit cost, this option is cheaper if the
required number of copies is above one thousand.
It is also pertinent to mention that the end result of both CD/DVD duplication and replication is almost the
same. Whether it is quality and consistency, both yield similar results. Hence it is up to you to decide on
which type to go with. The only difference between the two lies in cost-effectiveness in connection with
quantity and your required turnaround time.
In brief, DVD duplication provides an easy and economical way for storing and distributing digital data,
video resolutions and audio performance to both corporate and individuals.