Blu Ray Recorder
The next generation of data storage
Though it is an optical storage format and looks like an average CD or DVD, a Blu Ray disc is mainly used to store high definition video. Like CD and DVD burners, a Blu Ray DVD recorder uses laser light to read and write Blu Ray discs. However, it uses a blue-violet laser, which has a shorter wavelength than the standard red laser used in CD or DVD drives. Due to this short wavelength, more data can be stored on a Blu Ray disc.
Other than high definition movies, Blu Ray discs are also used for PlayStation 3 games, which made Blu Ray discs a significant contender in the HD media market. Prior to the Blu Ray PlayStation releases, Blu Ray discs were enduring a tough competition with the HD DVD, but as Blu Ray sales increased, Toshiba and other manufacturers decided to halt HD DVD production in favor of further developing Blu Ray media.
A Blu Ray DVD recorder can write and read Blu Ray discs on your desktop. Though expensive, their ability to read and write CDs and DVDs in addition to Blu Ray media can make them a worthy investment. BD-R discs can be written and read, but are not rewritable, while the data on BD-RE discs can be erased and re-recorded many times. Blu Ray discs are emerging as a potential media to replace and exceed DVDs as primary video storage, but they can also be used to store or backup data.
Must-Have Features
- Get a speed of at least 36 to 48 megabits per second.
- Ensure the Blu Ray disc drive is compatible with the type of media you wish to use; while newer models can support older discs, older models may not be able to play newer Blu Ray discs.
- If you plan to record more than an average-length HD movie, a double-layer Blu Ray disc with 54 GB of data storage holds up to 4.5 hours of HD video or over 20 hours of regular video.
Major Considerations
- Do I need a Blu Ray recorder that can read HD DVDs as well as Blu Ray discs?
- Do I want built-in Ethernet and network ports to enable computer networking and Ethernet?
- Is the Blu Ray drive able to play all the Blu Ray discs I plan to use?
- How much space do I require?
Top Manufacturers
- Pioneer
- LG
- Sony
- Toshiba
- Lite-On
Common Accessories or Add-Ons
- Writable BD-R discs
- Rewritable BD-RE discs
Price Range
As an emerging media, Blu Ray recorders are significantly more expensive than other optical disc drives and writers. Though it is possible to find a Blu Ray DVD recorder for as low as $250, prices can reach into the thousands.
Summary
Blu Ray discs and HD DVD have been competing to replace DVD media as the future in video reading and recording. While expensive, Blu Ray recorders and discs provide storage space for high definition video for those who want to be on the cutting edge of digital media.
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