2. DVD-Video

2.1General

DVD-Video is a new media for the distribution of home videos. The digital nature of this new media offers several new features to the consumer.

Amongst these features are:

High video quality based on MPEG2 compression and the ability to playback both aspect ratios of 4:3 and 16:9.

A DVD-Video can hold up to 8 different audio tracks (streams). Each track can be used for a different language. It can also be utilized for high quality stereo audio with a resolution of 16 bit and 48 kHz, or for theatre quality surround audio, like Dolby Digital AC-3 or multichannel 5.1.

Up to 32 different streams of subtitles can be placed on a DVD-Video, used as language subtitles, as menu highlights or as instructions for interactive functions.

Digital copy protection via CSS and analogue copy protection via Macrovision.

Multibranching is another feature of DVD-Video that simply offers the possibility to playback one title with different parts of this title, which can be interactively selected by the viewer. In addition, the multiangle option allows a scene of a movie title to be viewed in different angles.

Most of the DVD-Video players imply a region code corresponding to one of the six regions in the world where it is sold. This regional coding optionally ena- bles playback of a DVD-Video title in certain regions only.

DVD-Video discs can be prepared with a ”Parental Lock” in order to restrict the playback only by usage of a correct password.

2.2Input media for DVD-Video

Sony DADC prefers a DLT4000 or (DLT7000/DLT8000) format as standard input source. The tape should be recorded in DDP 2.0. If different systems are applied (such as e.g. ”DLT 1” or ”HP V80”), reading problems will occur. If you have no adequate DLT-recorder please send the content on DVD-R (Remark: a DVD-R can only be used if a DVD 5 is replicated; if a DVD 9 is to be pressed, there is no other way than a DLT.)

However, for complete authoring services Sony DVD Center Europe will be happy to assist you further. (please contact us at +43/(0)6246/880-1610 or visit our Web-Page ”www.sonydvdcenter.com”.

2.3Details on DVD Authoring Possibilities

2.3.1 Video

DVDs can be produced for both PAL and NTSC video standards. The aspect ratio of the source material can either be 4:3 or 16:9. The viewer has the choice of several output options on most players, according to the monitor. For example, in the case of a widescreen source the viewer can select between letterboxed and – if encoded during authoring – pan/scan playback on a 4:3 screen.

2.3.2 Audio

A DVD may contain up to eight different soundtracks, for example a feature film in different languages, each of which can be in one of the following formats:

Linear PCM mono or stereo (equivalent to the CD format)

DTS (Digital Television Standard)

MPEG1 mono or stereo

MPEG2 multichannel

Dolby Digital AC-3 mono, stereo or multichannel 5.1

Any stereo track can be encoded Dolby Pro Logic Surround, to extend the compatibility with existing home entertainment equipment.

Please note that this encoding is not implemented during DVD premastering, but has to be completed during preparation of the mastertape.

The sampling frequency on a DVD is 48 kHz.

2.3.3 Subpictures

Subpictures can be keyed into the videosignal and are used for several applications on the disc, for example:

as menu highlights

as logo

as instructions for an interactive function

for language subtitling, display of karaoke lyrics etc.

DVD Video

2. DVD Video

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Sony DVD Rom/DVD Video manual General, Input media for DVD-Video, Details on DVD Authoring Possibilities Video, Audio

DVD Rom/DVD Video specifications

Sony DVD-ROM/DVD Video technology has played a significant role in the evolution of home entertainment and data storage. Since its introduction in the late 1990s, this versatile format has enabled users to enjoy high-quality video and audio, making it a standard for movie distribution and video playback.

One of the main features of Sony DVD-ROM is its substantial storage capacity. A single-layer DVD can hold approximately 4.7 GB of data, which is significantly more than a standard CD, while dual-layer DVDs can store up to 8.5 GB. This increased capacity allows for higher-quality video content, including full-length movies, with multiple audio tracks and subtitles included.

In terms of video quality, DVD Video supports a resolution of up to 720x480 pixels, providing a clear and vibrant viewing experience. The technology utilizes advanced compression techniques, such as MPEG-2, to efficiently encode video files while maintaining high fidelity. This level of quality, coupled with the ability to offer surround sound formats like Dolby Digital and DTS, makes DVD a preferred choice for cinema-quality home viewing.

Another significant characteristic of Sony DVD technology is its robustness and durability. Compared to other media formats, DVDs are less susceptible to scratches and degradation, ensuring a longer lifespan for physical media. They also employ error correction technologies that help maintain data integrity, providing a reliable storage medium for both movies and computer files.

One of the innovative features of Sony's DVD technology is the menu and navigation system. Users can easily access different scenes, bonus content, and settings through an interactive graphic interface. This enhances the overall viewing experience, offering flexibility to skip chapters or access special features without hassle.

Sony has also embraced the evolution of DVD technology with the introduction of DVD-Audio and DVD-RAM formats. DVD-Audio provides superior audio quality, supporting multi-channel sound and higher sampling rates, catering to audiophiles. Additionally, DVD-RAM offers rewritable disk capabilities, making it suitable for data storage solutions that require frequent modifications.

In conclusion, Sony DVD-ROM/DVD Video technology has established itself as a cornerstone in digital media. With impressive storage capacity, superior video and audio quality, robust durability, and user-friendly navigation, it continues to influence the landscape of home entertainment. As technology progresses, understanding these characteristics becomes essential for consumers and content creators alike, ensuring they can make informed choices in a shifting digital era.