Regarding image burning and read/write speeds

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  • kibescorp
    Junior Member
    Junior Member
    • Sep 2008
    • 11

    Regarding image burning and read/write speeds

    Hi, please bear with me as this post is kind of long! But I've been trying to make backup copies of some of my older DVD discs recently, and I've been using Nero Image Recorder to make .nrg (image) files that I later burn using my external DVD writer.

    However, I had a concern regarding the READ speed of a DVD drive when it copies/makes an image file from a disc. From what I've read and tried, I understood that I am UNABLE to change the speed at which the drive will READ the disc while copying (at least not using DVD Decrypter or Alcohol 120%). Apparently I CAN do so if I use Nero DriveSpeed, although I don't seem to have the application. I certainly do not have that option of changing the read speed when using Nero Express to copy a disc or create an image from the disc.

    I guess my question is, do you even NEED to change the READ speed? According to my calculations (based on how long it takes to create the image file and how large the file is), the drive reads at about 10x speed (it takes about 4 min. to rip a 2.8 GB image file).

    While I understand the importance of a slow WRITE speed to ensure no errors in the burning process, does the same apply to the READ speed when the drive is creating an image file from the disc? I guess what I mean is, will you actually potentially get better results from copying the disc if you slow down the READ speed (assuming you actually can, considering how difficult software interfaces make it for you to do so), or is the WRITE speed the only one you need to be concerned about as far as keeping the data accurate goes?

    ... Also, sorry to tack this on, but I had another concern regarding copying discs. When I tried to burn the first image file using my external DVD writer (this was the FIRST time I had used the brand new drive), I used a Memorex DVD-R and set it to 2x write speed. A few seconds later, Nero gave me the "power calibration error" that everyone hates to see. I ruled out the media being the issue when I switched the Memorex disc out for a TDK DVD-R. I set the write speed again at 2x and got the SAME exact error message. I knew it wasn't an issue with the drive itself as it was brand new, so I figured I would try burning at a faster speed. I put the TDK disc back in and set it to 4x write speed this time ... the disc burned flawlessly.

    Is there any reason why burning at too slow a speed would create a "power calibration error?" I'm thinking perhaps it has to do with firmware, that either the hardware or the software simply doesn't want you to burn at such a slow speed?
  • dr_ml422
    Lord of Digital Video
    Lord of Digital Video
    • May 2007
    • 1903

    #2
    Welcome to the forum.

    @ kib just a reminder of 1 of the forum rules so as to always be able to post and receive better/faster replies. Rule 19. ok. Now a external drive. why? Can't hook up a decent internal optical drive?

    2nd if your drive accepts upto 16x then scratch 2x. optimal burning is usually at 1/2 the write speed of your disc and what your burner can do also.

    3rd go to www.ImgBurn.com and download it. It's freeware and about the best image burner out. leave the default settings alone. everything's set for optimal use already. Check out the ImgBurn forum for their guides in case any ?'s.

    4th Memorex? From hard experience always use quality media, preferably Ty's and Verbatims. Some others aren't too bad. TDK's are pretty decent some times. Get DVD Identifier. Download it. It'll tell you who makes your disc as long as it's in
    your drive.

    5th read speeds not such a concern. The media and write speed more of a issue if any. Also check if your firmware for your burner is up to date. ImgBurn will direct you to the Firmware page also.

    6th Go to Blutach's signature and there you'll find many guides on media and burning. He's one of the senior moderators. You could look for a post by him or just search the members list.

    Try these suggestions and try to post back results so we could help w/anything else.
    SAMSUNG SH-S203B, SAMSUNG SH-S223F,

    Take the suggestions and follow the directions. The results will speak for themselves.



    Google is definitely our friend.

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    • PurpleDemon
      Digital Video Expert
      Digital Video Expert
      • Mar 2006
      • 716

      #3
      A burn log would be really useful.

      I can tell you now, Memorex and TDK are not the best choices of media.

      Get some Verbatim, Taiyo Yuden, or even Sony disks would do great.

      Good Luck and remember a log would help us help you better.

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