Digital Envisions

With many consumers refreshing their movie collections with Blu-ray versions of titles, it makes sense to review the basics of caring for those collections. Blu-ray DVDs are a bit more sturdy than standard DVDs, but can still malfunction when a few simple steps are not followed.

Blu-ray discs benefit from a harder coating than standard DVDs and are more resistant to surface scratches. Often what appear to be scratches are actually marks that can be wiped away. Thus most difficulties with a Blu-ray disc have a very simple solution. The best material for wiping a DVD is micro-fiber cloth. This is the same material that is recommended for an LCD or Plasma TV screen. If micro-fiber is not available, a soft cloth is a safe alternative.

As with standard DVDs, Blu-ray discs should always be cleaned by moving the cloth from the center to the outer edge, rather than wiping around the surface. If imperfections still remain, dip the micro-fiber in a bit of water. There are several cleaners on the market meant for this purpose, but the surface can be easily ruined by the wrong chemical so it is wise to stick to a simpler method.

One common sense but important reminder is to take care not to leave fingerprints on a DVD. Always pick up discs by the opening in the middle or by holding the outside edges. A single fingerprint on a disc could interfere with performance.

For those instances when a Blu-ray DVD does have a surface scratch, there are home buffing kits that can return the surface of the disc to a smooth, clear state. DVDs can also be taken to an expert who will buff out any irregularities that interfere with playback.

Preventing damage up front will save the time and agony of fixing problems later. No matter how tempting it is to toss a DVD into a pile in order to rush onto the next or avoid searching for the case, do not stack discs on top of one another. Likewise, many people try to save space by transferring Blu-rays to compacted CD holders. This is a mistake-the original cases provide the best protection.

Blu-rays should never be left in hot temperatures or in direct sun as this can cause warping. Additionally, temperature fluctuation and varying levels of moisture over an extended period of time may affect DVD quality. A lesser known fact is that discs should be kept standing along the shelf rather than stacked flat. This will maintain the integrity of the Blu-ray.

While the lifespan of a technology is difficult to predict, Blu-ray has become the next standard for video with no identifiable substitute waiting in the wings. The incredible quality of Blu-ray DVDs is worth preserving for years of crystal clear playback. With minimal effort, a DVD collection can remain as clean and error-free as when the discs were first purchased.

Related posts

• Xbox And Your Home Theater (0)
• Wireless Speakers For Your Home Theaters (0)
• Which Screen Is Best For Your Home Theater? (0)
• What Is A Good Ergonomic Chair? (0)
• Things To Take Into Consideration When Scouting For Movies Download Services (1)

Comments are closed.