Best DVD type for computer data

[doitmyself]

In rewritable DVDs, there is DVD RAM, DVD-RW, and DVD+RW.

What would be best for general storage of computer data that might include pictures? (my computer is 6 months old)

My initial study indicates that the DVD RAM is best. It can be rewritten 100,000 times and has an error correction mechanism?

Does one type last longer or resist data loss better?

Any stand out DVD brands?

At this time, I don't wish to start a discussion on external hard drives, flash drives, or general backup strategy (next time).

Thanks.

 

[97tbird]

TDK/Maxell (made in japan) use Taiyo-uden I think. check packaging for origin. (Walmart has those sometimes)
DVD-RW is the format recognized by most dvd drives/bruners. (i might be wrong here, i read it somewhere, though)

 

[cosynthetics]

DVD-RAM is meant to be an archival media type. It does have its problems though.

It won't last any where near as long as they say.
May have trouble mounting old media.
Drive/media conflicts are common.

If you are willing to work around those problems then DVD-RAM isn't that bad. Otherwise I'd stick with -r or +r.

 

[MGregoir]

Buy a pile of Taiyo Yuden blank DVD-Rs.

They are not rewritable but in quantity are the most compatible and most reliable. If the disc goes bad, make a new one and toss it. If you are using them for regular backups, it also gives you the ability to "step back in time" to a specific point, as well if you bank the discs.

Taiyo Yudens are the best, and if you do not need to rewrite all the time, write once will be superior for reliability and compatibility in most cases.

 

[doitmyself]

What locally available over-the-counter brands are made by Taiyo Yuden?

Panasonic?


I've read that many/most brand names can be out sourced to different manufacturers, some better than others.

 

[CivicFan]

If you are doing backups, an external HD is probably your best bet.

I would also stay away from the re-writable disks. A -R or a +R are much more reliable.

 

[doitmyself]

Well, I can see that, like best oil, there are lots of opinions on best computer stuff.

Here's one convincing article claiming DV+R is far superior:

http://adterrasperaspera.com/blog/2006/10/30/how-to-choose-cddvd-archival-media


And, heres a Wikopedia summary showing the great benefits of DVD RAM for DATA storage:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DVD-RAM


I have found several other articles that mirror wikipedia. But, you guys have valid points that I am interested in too. It's hard digest internet info for truthfulness.

Thanks

 

[Touring5]

For re-writable media, the -RAM is the most reliable and durable. It does have several drawbacks, however: typically pretty slow, discs are fairly expensive, and most PC drives don't read them.

I wouldn't suggest using DVD-RW or +RW. TY DVD-R's are generally considered the highest (and most consistent) quality. Buy from one of the reputable online merchants (there are counterfeit TY's out there) such as Meritline, Rima, or Supermediastore and they're really pretty inexpensive. One other note about TY's - they make an economy version called "value line", which I've used without issues, but it seems wise to just stick with their premium line for a slight bit more money.

For absolutely critical data, optical storage probably isn't the most reliable way to go. Using a hard drive to back up data is generally a good bet (especially for large amounts).

 

[97tbird]

Originally Posted By: doitmyself
What locally available over-the-counter brands are made by Taiyo Yuden?

Panasonic?


I've read that many/most brand names can be out sourced to different manufacturers, some better than others.


some TDK, some Maxell, there may be others.