Q: What is DVD-ROM?
A: DVD-ROM stands for Digital Versatile Disc Read Only Memory. Like CD-ROM discs, DVD-ROM discs are intended for computer use, and are molded with the information pressed right into the disc. However, unlike CD-ROM with its 650 MB capacity, DVD-ROM discs can hold up to 4.7 GB of information. Even higher capacities are possible with additional information layers and double sided DVD-ROM discs.

Q: How does DVD-ROM differ from DVD-Video?
A: DVD-Video, like a pre-recorded VHS tape or laser disc, is intended to distribute major motion pictures, and is designed to be played on TV set top players (but can also be played on DVD-ROM drives). DVD-ROM is intended for computer applications.

Q: Why is an MPEG-2 card required to use a DVD-ROM drive?
A: Any DVD-ROM title that contains MPEG-2 video sequences, or a DVD-Video movie, requires a MPEG-2 decoder to decompress the video stream and pass the data to the PC's display so the video can be viewed. MPEG-2 decoding is best done in hardware, freeing the PC’s CPU to process other tasks and ensuring optimum video playback. Software decoding of MPEG-2, while possible, puts incredible strain on the PC’s CPU and often results in jerky video playback.

Q: Can DVD-ROM drives play/read standard CD-ROM discs?
A: Yes, DVD-ROM drives are backward compatible with standard CD-ROM and CD audio discs.

Q: What about compatibility with CD-R discs?
A: It’s true that some DVD-ROM drives cannot read CD-R discs due to laser wavelength requirements of CD-R media. However, DVD-ROM drives with twin laser/twin lens systems, such as Sony’s DDU100E, can read CD-R discs.

Q: Can DVD-Video discs be played on a DVD-ROM drive?
A: Yes, with an MPEG-2 card installed in the PC and appropriate audio playback hardware (sound card & speakers), DVD-Video movies can be enjoyed on the PC.

Q: Why should I purchase a DVD-ROM drive instead of a CD-ROM drive?
A: DVD-ROM drives, being backward compatible with CD-ROM, protect your investment in those discs while opening up the exciting world of DVD to your PC.

Q: What is the capacity of DVD-ROM discs?
A: Basic capacity is 4.7 GB (single sided, single layer), however 8.5 GB is possible (Double sided, single layer), as is 17 GB (Double sided, double layer).

Q: What kind of DVD-ROM titles are available now?
A: Interactive multi-media games, interactive entertainment, and interactive educational titles are currently available from many companies, as well as DVD-Video movies from many major motion picture studios.

Q: Can I get the Dolby® AC-3[(TM)] digital surround sound from a DVD-ROM drive?
A: Yes, but a AC-3 compatible receiver and the appropriate 6 speakers (front left/right, center, surround left/right, and subwoofer) would have to be connected to the line-out of the PC’s sound card (DVD-ROM drive is connected to the PC’s sound card).

Q: How much can I expect to pay for a complete DVD-ROM kit?
A: MSRP of a new DVD-ROM drive is around $150.00 (and lowering).

Q: What sort of system do I need to run a DVD-ROM drive?
A: Generally speaking, a Pentium[(TM)] 133 MHz or faster CPU, 16 MB of RAM, 2 MB free hard disk space, 16-bit Soundblaster[(TM)] compatible sound card, amplified stereo speakers, VGA display card, Microsoft[(TM)] Windows 95 with OSR-2, 1 open PCI 2.1 slot on Mother board, and 1 open 5.25-inch drive bay in your PC. A busmastering EIDE controller is strongly advised (standard on most Pentium motherboards). If surround sound playback is desired, a Dolby AC-3 or ProLogic[(TM)] compatible receiver and appropriate speakers are also required.

Q: Will DVD-ROM drives be compatible with the upcoming DVD-R write once recordable discs?
A: Yes, a recorded DVD-R disc should be readable/playable in DVD-ROM drives

Q: What about compatibility with rewritable DVD?
A: First generation DVD-ROM drives will not be able to play rewritable DVD. However, future generation DVD-ROM drives may have this capability DVD-RAM/DVD+RW.

Q: What advantage does the proposed DVD+RW format have over DVD-RAM?
A: DVD+RW can store 3.0 GB, opposed to 2.6 GB with DVD-RAM; a 15% improvement in capacity! DVD+RW uses Constant Angular Velocity (CAV) rotation mode for higher performance. DVD+RW format makes compatibility of the discs with future generation DVD-ROM drives more cost effective than DVD-RAM.

Q: Will DVD+RW discs require a caddy-like cartridge?
A: DVD+RW discs can be handled like traditional CD-ROM or DVD-ROM discs. However, when recording, DVD+RW discs will require a caddy or cartridge to maintain the integrity of the information.

Q: Are larger capacities possible for DVD+RW?
A: This is currently under study. It may be possible to increase to 4.25 GB or even 4.7 GB

Q: Can DVD-RAM/DVD+RW be recorded on both sides? Is dual layer recording possible?
A: DVD-RAM and DVD+RW discs can be single or double sided. Dual layer recording is not specified at this time.