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Preserving Your Blu-ray DVD Collection
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.
When cleaning a Blu-ray DVD, always wipe from the center outwards. Do not wipe in a circular motion. If there are stubborn marks on the disc, place a small amount of water on the cloth. Though some use mild detergents to clean discs, this approach is not encouraged as chemicals could damage DVD surfaces.
Even though they are difficult to see and seem harmless, fingerprints are troublesome when it comes to reading a DVD. Do not touch the surface of the disc directly as the slightest variation can affect Blu-ray performance. Instead, use the thumb and forefinger to grasp the inner and outer edge of the DVD.
Unfortunately there may be times when the damage is more resistant, in which case additional measures must be taken. One option is to purchase a home repair package, which uses a buffer to remove the scratch. Another way to return the DVD to its original state is to enlist the expertise of a paid specialist who will use professional tools to address the issue.
Another key contributor to DVD damage is leaving discs in loose stacks after removing them from the player. Take the extra 10 seconds to put the Blu-ray back in its original case. The convenient plastic protectors in which the DVD was purchased not only make it easy to identify the movie but also keep the disc free from dust, dirt, scratching, and liquids. Don't be tempted to use multi-slip CD holders. Although they make DVDs more portable, they fail to block elements that can cause damage.
Storage is another key element to prolonging the life of Blu-ray collections. Storage for DVDs can be likened to that of books. DVDs should be kept in a location free of heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. To prevent warping and other environmental effects, look for an area that is both dry and moderate in temperature. Additionally, set the cases vertically along the shelf, not flat, to preserve the original condition.
Many cautious consumers wait until the buzz dies down before trying the latest technology, and now it is clear that Blu-ray is not just another quick fad. Blu-ray movies offer realism that almost equates to 3D in every picture and a partnership with high-definition televisions and, as a result, most people are becoming comfortable with the idea of replacing standard DVDs with this new medium. The life of the DVD has been long enough for most to experience the effects of poor care and handling, so now is the time to take steps in preventing history from repeating itself.
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.
When cleaning a Blu-ray DVD, always wipe from the center outwards. Do not wipe in a circular motion. If there are stubborn marks on the disc, place a small amount of water on the cloth. Though some use mild detergents to clean discs, this approach is not encouraged as chemicals could damage DVD surfaces.
Even though they are difficult to see and seem harmless, fingerprints are troublesome when it comes to reading a DVD. Do not touch the surface of the disc directly as the slightest variation can affect Blu-ray performance. Instead, use the thumb and forefinger to grasp the inner and outer edge of the DVD.
Unfortunately there may be times when the damage is more resistant, in which case additional measures must be taken. One option is to purchase a home repair package, which uses a buffer to remove the scratch. Another way to return the DVD to its original state is to enlist the expertise of a paid specialist who will use professional tools to address the issue.
Another key contributor to DVD damage is leaving discs in loose stacks after removing them from the player. Take the extra 10 seconds to put the Blu-ray back in its original case. The convenient plastic protectors in which the DVD was purchased not only make it easy to identify the movie but also keep the disc free from dust, dirt, scratching, and liquids. Don't be tempted to use multi-slip CD holders. Although they make DVDs more portable, they fail to block elements that can cause damage.
Storage is another key element to prolonging the life of Blu-ray collections. Storage for DVDs can be likened to that of books. DVDs should be kept in a location free of heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. To prevent warping and other environmental effects, look for an area that is both dry and moderate in temperature. Additionally, set the cases vertically along the shelf, not flat, to preserve the original condition.
Many cautious consumers wait until the buzz dies down before trying the latest technology, and now it is clear that Blu-ray is not just another quick fad. Blu-ray movies offer realism that almost equates to 3D in every picture and a partnership with high-definition televisions and, as a result, most people are becoming comfortable with the idea of replacing standard DVDs with this new medium. The life of the DVD has been long enough for most to experience the effects of poor care and handling, so now is the time to take steps in preventing history from repeating itself.
About the Author:
Robert Mann is a published writer and website developer living in California. Mr. Mann's latest projects include websites for locating specific Xbox 360 games and Wii games.