Dual Layer media last as long as SL?

[LT9000]

Do we have any idea about the longevity/durability of dual layer media after burning?

[redwudz]

I don't know that they have been around long enough for a 'real' study of what their longevity may be. I can't think of any real reason that they would be much different than a regular DVD if the media is good quality. Maybe someone has some better info from a testing company. I found no solid information on the net, just speculation.

[Morse2]

Hi LT9000;

This is purely my own experience, but with factory made pre-recorded DVD's the DL disks are proving to be less durable. 8 have failed outright in my library to date (all commercially made legitimate disks from major studios, all failed apparently due to oxidation of the reflective layer - no mishandling/scratching issues). It's starting to hit my friend's libraries too (just talked to one of 'em yesterday who had it happen to him for the first time last week). To date no SL disks have failed in my library, so I tend to trust them a bit more than the failure prone DL disks.

I have absolutely NO experience with burned DL media though, so take that observation with a large grain of salt.

All the best,
Morse

[OneSickPup]

I found no solid information on the net, just speculation.

I agree. At best we would have to rely on accelerated aging testing which is nothing but speculation for now. Who knows how the real world will play out. In the interim, the best you can do is use a good scanning drive for periodic quality scans. Keep good records. Or just plan on reburning every few years. As Morse2 stated, you can't rely on pressed dvd's to last forever also. I'm most concerned with family videos. I plan to reburn every 2 years no matter what the quality scan shows - just to be on the safe side. But then again - I enjoy dvd burning as a hobby.