CyberLogic Blog

Blu-ray Disc (BD) or Blu-ray is the next generation optical storage disc that was designed to the replace the DVD. In February 2002 a large group of computer, electronic and media companies (Apple, Dell, Hitachi, HP, JVC, LG, Mitsubishi, Panasonic, Pioneer, Philips, Samsung, Sharp, Sony, TDK and Thomson) developed the new format. These companies went on to form what is now known as the Blu-ray Disc Association or BDA.

With relevance in mind, the Blu-ray format was designed to be around for the next 10 to 15 years. The format offers five times more storage capacity of a traditional DVD. Based on whether it is a single or dual-layer disc, capacity varies between 25GB and 50GB of available space. This is significantly more than the 4.7GB provided by a single-layer DVD disc and should satisfy current data storage needs whilst providing excellent high definition (HD) video and audio playback.

Blu-ray gets its name from the colour of the blue laser that it uses to read and write with. Normal DVDs and CDs use a red laser. The blue laser used in Blu-Ray technology has a shorter wave length which allows data to be packed closer, therefore allowing more storage. Early types of Blu-ray discs were very susceptible to corruption because of scratches, but recent developments in hard coating have made them much more resistant.

A disadvantage of Blu-ray is the price. The discs and players are still very expensive, but as technology grows and the demand increases, the prices will surely drop. Any format that is supported by over 200 leading electronic, computer, recording media, video game and music companies is a definite winner.