A process called "replication" creates DVD-Video. Replication is the actual manufacturing of a DVD with the video or data information embedded as part of the manufacturing process This process takes the Data from your CD master (usually a CD-R) and copies it exactly to a glass substrate best known as a "glass master" via a laser beam recorder. After several steps the result is a nickel plated stamper that will be used in an injection moulding machine that will "Stamp" the data image in melted polycarbonate plastic. It is formed into the shape of a CD, cooled and then it receives a layer of mirror-like aluminium and a coating of protective lacquer. The making and preparing of a glass master and stamper can be time consuming, but the CD manufacturing time goes rather quickly with an average CD manufacturing cycle time of 3 to 6 seconds per CD. Replication production runs are cost effective for bulk quantity requirement or long runs.

Why CD and DVD replication?

For most clients making a CD, it makes sense to submit your project for CD replication as opposed to replication. Replication is the industry standard of producing CDs for commercial sale. The longevity and cost per unit advantages of replicated discs goes in its favour. In replication there is always a possibility you might end up throwing away around 10% of the discs during the burning process - and you may experience compatibility problems, which are non existent in the replication process.