How long do DVD's last?

Question

I read that DVDs made from computer applications have a life expectancy of 2 to 5 years, Is this true? I am creating photo albums and movies which I thought would last for posterity.

Please respond. Thanks

Answer

This question was answered on April 16, 2006. Much of the information contained herein may have changed since posting.

Most companies that make DVD and cd roms will tell you that the life expectancy of a DVD or CD is 50-100 years if handled properly. Handled properly means different things to different people but if you put it in a case and keep it in your home, you shouldn't have any trouble getting that kind of life expectancy. The issue you've been reading about is related to buying really cheap and unreliable recordable media. Some deals are very tempting but if it's a company you've never heard of the deal might be too good to be true. In the past few years, new techniques have been established to ensure DVD's last as long as they should.

Author

Posted by Aaron of Chandler-Gilbert Community College on April 16, 2006