I've just been given a dual layer DVD burner. It seems some dual layer burners only write to *double layer* media, not *dual layer*. Is that true? And if so, is double layer just double-sided? Also if so, why do they call them dual layer burners? Are they simply lying? I'm confused.
There are dual Format burners(use both + & - blank media). There are also dual layer burners that burn the larger capacity dual layer blank media. They are sometimes confused. You must have a dual layer burner to burn dual layer blanks. These blanks cost about $10. each. Regular blanks both + and - cost around $1.or less. Dual layer and double layer are the same. Dual format doesn't mean it will burn dual layer. Jerry
Also the dual layer blanks have about twice the capacity of the regular +/- blanks. They are not dual sided, everything is burner on one side. Jerry
Dual layer burner should also write on a single layer disc. You need to know what formats it will burn (plus + or - which is dash not minus, RW and Dual layer). I think DL is only a plus format.
Thanks heaps for the info. So dual layer is the same thing as 'double layer', OK. $10 for the dual layer media though ??!! You must be joking, I hope. Because 2 single-layers would be about $2 or less, right? So, ummm... WHY $10 for those things???
New technology is never cheap at the start. Prices range from $10 to 15 or 8 to 13 in bulk (25 to 50 discs). I have had a DL burner for 6 months and have yet to try it out. When I first bought you could not even buy a disc to burn. One of these days I going to try one just for the hell of it.
You can get DL Riteks here for 6.00-7.98 here: http://www.meritline.com/dl-dvd-r-dual-layer-ritek.html Considering DL media started out at 25.00 each only 5-6 months ago, this is a pretty significant drop in price. I look for it to be around 3.00 in a couple month's time as more and more companies jump into the fray.
Just ordered a 3 pack for $24.99 less $10 rebate. $5 bucks apiece! I guess I will finally try out my DL burner. Thanks bigorange