DVD-R The 300 Year Disc Counter Display (20) Retail DVD-R Singles (10) CD/DVD Safe Pens (2 Pk) in retail counter display box

How do Archival Gold DVD-R discs differentiate themselves from their standard, less expensive counterparts? The most distinguishing characteristic of standard discs is that they typically have a limited useful life of 1 to 5 years. Exposure to natural elements like UV light, heat, and humidity as well as cheap manufacturing techniques and inferior design will cause quick deterioration to most DVDs over time. In contrast, thirty percent of the cost to produce a Delkin Archival Gold disc can be attributed to the use of 24 karat gold - one of the most inert elements on earth. More importantly, gold has proven to be highly effective in preventing oxidation- the classic cause of disc failure. Plus, Delkins unique Scratch Armor resistant coating serves as an additional armor from scratches, scuffs, dirt and even chemicals, adding ten times more protection than similar uncoated media.

Although many professionals carelessly choose to safeguard their images in a hard drive, there are several disadvantages to using this type of storage system. Most importantly, using any form of mechanical hardware presents the risk of physical breakage or outright failure, with little hope of retrieving your valuable data. Furthermore, it is impossible to ensure that the data on a hard drive has not been modified, which is especially important in the case of event photographers that may need to occasionally refer back to their clients original images. Archival Gold discs conveniently ensure that your data has not been tampered with, modified or rewritten. Similarly, solid state devices like CompactFlash cards are limited to a 10-year retention rate. Because all Flash memory cards require a periodic surge of electricity to continue working properly over time, this means that leaving your archived card unused for too long can result in permanent data loss that will appear as merely an error when inserted into your PC.

In order to sufficiently explain the many benefits that Delkin Devices Archival Gold storage method offers, it is important to appreciate the intricate manufacturing that goes behind one of these remarkable DVD-R discs. While traditional discs are built in standardized layers and intended for short-term use, our DVD-Rs are manufactured with strict high-quality design standards and posses several unique attributes:

The most crucial dye layer of any DVD-R is located in the center of the disc and made up of countless data bits. While the vast majority of discs utilize either an inexpensive Azo or Cyanine dye, Archival Gold recognizes that these substances accelerate data deterioration and disk rot. Our specialized Phthalocyanine dye withstands the natural threats of UV light, humidity and heat. Secondly, this dye possesses a much quicker reaction than standard dyes to the writing laser used to read the data. As a photographer, this means disc drives can easily transfer your images with absolutely no visible errors when being viewed through your device.
As mentioned, a unique Archival Gold 24 karat gold-sputtered layer takes advantage of the inert qualities of this natural element. Unlike silver and aluminum based reflective layers, gold is naturally resistant to oxidization that causes errors, corrosion and data degradation to the essential dye layer. Oxidization is oftentimes made visible through markings and even discoloration on the polycarbonate layer. Delkins carefully controlled manufacturing processes further prevent any threat of disc rot.
A lacquer coating that is present in all standard DVD-R discs is the primary and necessary protective layer for your data. Delkin, however, uses an additional Scratch Armor protective layer. We feel that this layer plays a crucial role in protecting your images because of its strategic placement near the data itself.
All Archival Gold discs are manufactured with a thermal printable gold colored surface. Delkin now offers customization features, however. All of our discs are available with Inkjet surfaces, allowing you to add your personal creative touch in the convenience of your home. For bulk purchases, Delkin also offers custom manufactured silk-screen surfaces with your company logo, design or any other artwork. This is perfect for mass electronic retailers or professional photographers who wish to add flare to their clients images.

As stated, Delkin Devices Archival Gold product specifications are based on international temperature and humidity standards to obtain an accurate longevity rating. Each disc is subjected to an accelerated aging chamber and periodically removed to ensure that it is capable of writing and playing back data properly. These strict standards are merely one more way that Delkin Devices strives to manufacture the highest quality products for our valued clients.