Answer #1

Blue-ray is now the king of high definition format and that is only a tip of the iceberg. However, there is confusion among many folks about the major differences between Blue-ray discs and DVD. Although they are similar in shape and size, they slightly vary when it comes to the media, player compatibility, laser technology and storage capacity just to mention but a few. This article will discuss the basic differences between Blue Ray and DVD.

1. Storage capacity

Just like in iPods and computers, storage capacity in both Blue Ray discs and DVD is calculated in gigabytes. A Single DVD can handle data of about 4.7GB, which is similar to watching your favorite two hour movie. On the other hand, a single Blue-ray disc can handle data of about 25GB which equals about five hours of watching high definition movie. In fact, you can store three movies on a single double layer disc.

2. Laser power

Laser is a popular media technology used to read and identify the data stored on your disc. When the disc rotates the laser identifies the data and transfers the information in form of both sound and picture. DVD players normally use a laser that reads discs at a wave length of 650nm, whereas Blue-ray players use shorter wavelengths of about 405nm, which is much smaller than their red laser counterparts. This enables closer reading of data.

3. Disc space

DVD disc and Blue-ray are identical physically. Both discs have pits or grooves at the bottom that allows the laser to read the information. DVDs have grooves on their underside that is wide to accommodate 4.GB data. Blue-ray discs on the other hand have close spaced grooves because blue laser reads data on short wave lengths.

Blue-ray discs have become very popular as they offer better image resolution.

Answered By: daniel [554 ]