New DVD Movies

With Blu-ray technology becoming more and more mainstream, many movie buffs are replacing their DVD libraries with these high-quality discs. This update also provides an opportunity to discard damaged DVDs and take care to ensure that the new Blu-rays do not suffer the same fate. Taking the time to prepare discs for years of play only takes a few minutes and is well worth the while.

Standard DVDs have a tendency to scratch quite easily, whereas the coating on a Blu-ray disc provides a higher level of protection. Because of this they are less likely to incur damage. Dust and debris can usually be removed by gently wiping the surface with a micro-fiber cloth. Micro-fiber is used to clean computer monitors, glasses, and other delicate items and is sold in most electronics or department stores, but an equivalent material may be substituted if necessary.

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.

If the DVD continues to experience play-back issues after home remedies are exhausted, the damage may be more severe. In this case, the surface might require more invasive solutions. Do-it-yourself options include a buffer that can be used at home or, to avoid further trial and error, a trained professional may be consulted to correct the affected areas.

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.

The best location for Blu-ray discs is in a dry, cool environment. Prolonged exposure to sunlight and rapid changes in temperature and humidity can degrade DVDs. Storing discs horizontally for long periods of time is also not advisable, whereas a disc set upright in its case can be safe for years.

Blu-ray has taken its place as the format of choice for at home media viewing. Offering unmatched clarity and color, the experience takes watching a movie to a whole new level. Starting a new media library is an investment of both time and money, so preserving the quality of these items should be a top priority. These techniques are a simple and inexpensive way to ensure that the Blu-ray DVDs last as long as the technology.