Saturday, June 30, 2007

Blu-Ray Innovations

TigerDirect

Paper Blu-ray discs? How can that be possible? Not only does paper sound low-tech, how can it possibly handle the abuse that DVDs and CDs undergo? Sony has developed a Blu-ray disc that is made of over 50% paper yet is capable of storing a full 25 gigabytes of data.

You may wonder what possible advantages going to a paper-based bluray disc offers. As an alternative to plastic, paper is the environmental choice. Blu-ray technology is unlike DVD and CD technology. The blue laser does not need light to travel through the substrate making paper a conceivable option. In addition, paper blu-ray products can be printed directly on giving more creative control to the artistic set. Finally, low tech as it sounds, paper is more secure than other optical formats. When the data on a paper Blu-ray disc is no longer needed, simply cut the disc with scissors and throw it away.

Another innovation in Blu-ray technology is the added capacity of multi-layering. TDK’s prototype 200 gigabyte – that’s right, two hundred gigabyte – disc is capable of storing 18 hours of high-definition video encoded at 24 mbps. In addition, TDK features an 8cm mini Blu-ray disc format with smaller storage capacities that are the perfect fit for the next generation of Blu-ray camcorders. Blu-ray technology in the form of a mini disc will allow camcorders to record unprecedented lengths of footage at unheard of quality levels.

Finally, TDK’s innovative “Snap N’ Save” cases seal out dust and dirt for that can damage DVDs, CDs, and Blu-ray discs. These cases are designed to replace spindles and allow for better physical storage.

From paper Blu-ray products (still sounds low tech to us but we know it’s not) to the miniaturization of Blu-ray technology to building a better storage case, the innovations taking place are astounding.

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