BIZDISC CD BUSINESS CARD - CD & DVD PRODUCTION METHODS

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CD & DVD PRODUCTION METHODS

There are two main production methods when producing a CD business card, mini CD/DVD, custom shaped disc or standard CD/DVD, regardless of size and shape. These processes have a direct impact on the quality and turn-around time of your order so it is important to understand which is best for you.

The first method is replication. Replication involves a glass master being created containing the information to be loaded onto the discs. This glass master is then used to produce a stamper that is loaded into an injection moulding machine that produces CD or DVD replicates. A layer of micro-thin aluminum is applied to the disc. It is then lacquered for additional protection and printed. Quality of the discs is monitored throughout the process to ensure discs are exact replicas of the original master.

Duplication is the second method used in producing discs. Unlike replication, which incorporates the loading of data into the manufacturing process, duplication used pre-existing blank media like you would when burning a CD or DVD at home. Robot machines are automated to burn and print each disc meaning hundreds of discs can be produced at a time.

Which is the best? Which is the most cost effective? This really depends on:

How many discs you wish to produce.
How many unique discs you want (ie, you may want 1,000 CDs, but this order may consist of 10 lots of 100 discs with different data on each lot).
The print-quality you wish to achieve.

1. As a general rule, quantities of 1,000 or more are required to make replication feasible. This is due to the fact that producing the glass master requires setup costs and replicating smaller quantities would see a price blowout as this setup cost must be absorbed. For 1,000 or more discs, replication is by far the more economical option.

2. If you require different information on your discs, for example 10 lots of 100 discs with different data for each lot, then this is treated as 10 different orders of 100 and not an order of 1,000. This is because a glass master must be produced for each lot of data. So in our example of 10 x 100 discs, this could only be duplicated and not replicated as the order quantity is 100 each and not 1,000 or more.

3. Replication allows for offset or silkscreen printing like you would see in a store-bought CD or DVD, whereas duplication jobs are inkjet printed. Although inkjet printed discs are high in quality, the difference when placed next to an offset or silkscreen printed disc is overwhelming. If you wish to produce discs for commercial projects, or wish to create a good impression, replication is the way to go.

Finally, replication is far more cost-effective than duplication (for orders of 1,000 plus of course).

Still unsure which method is the best for you? Contact us and we'll answer your questions regarding disc production methods.