Computer Burning Question

[DisneyGirl]

I know the difference between CD-R and CD-RW but what's the difference between DVD-R and DVD+R? Is there a CD+R or CD+RW?

[Hogi Bear]

DVD+ and DVD- are just two different formats there's not really any diffence between them like DVD-R and DVD-RW, there's only compatibility differences and Royaties for the owners of the patents used in each format (eg: Sony, Toshiba, Philips...).

There is no CD+R or CD+RW.

Hope this explains it enough.

[DisneyGirl]

Some told me that DVD- works with more computers than DVD, and that DVD+ is rewriteable, is that true?

[The Lizard King]

Some told me that DVD- works with more computers than DVD, and that DVD+ is rewriteable, is that true?

I like DVD-R better, mostly because my old Toshiba player can play that format and cannot play DVD+R.

If it's just R, then it is write once. If it is RW, then it is re-writable. Check out the following FAQ for more information:

http://www.dvddemystified.com/dvdfaq.html#4.3

TLK

[Hogi Bear]

The compatibility with + and - is more to do with the DVD Drive and its firmware. The firmware basically is software on the drive, which tells it how to operate. If the firmware has not been designed (programmed) to work with DVD-R/RW, then it will not be able to read it. Older Toshiba DVD Drives may only be able to read DVD-R/RW, likewise an older Sony DVD Drive may only be able to read DVD+R/RW.

You've just got to check compatibility, newer drives should be able to read all formats and a firmware update may fix compatibilty issues (DVD-RAM being an exception with many drives).

Like TLK said, RW stands for Rewritable and R write once (read many (WORM)). And Blu-ray will be BD-R and BD-RE (Rewritable).