Once again, the type of printing on a DVD disc depends partly on which format of DVD is being produced.

If it is single-sided (DVD-5, DVD-9), a label may be printed on the top side. But because all DVDs are more susceptible to heat than CDs are, silk-screening - which uses ultraviolet heat - may not be the best choice. Ink also affects the flatness of a disc, and this is more critical for DVDs than for CDs.

To make a full-color label on a CD, some producers first silk-screened a base coat of white paint so the colors would not be affected by the metallic appearance of the disk. This "white coat" process cannot be applied to DVD.

So-called "pit art" was developed to avoid some of these problems. It is really a form of disk decoration, in which, the pits are produced only in some parts of a disc side, making a mirrored holograph-like pattern that gives the appearance of a design or a label. Because no ink is used, the flatness of the disk is not compromised.

If a DVD disc has data on both sides, neither silk-screening nor pit art may be used on the main surface. The so-called "mirror band" in the center of the disc may be printed on.

DVD Packaging

The final step in the process of making a DVD is the packaging. So far, no single type of DVD packaging has emerged as dominant, although the Video Software Dealers Association has made recommendations involving packaging guidelines. The VSDA's says DVD packaging should be unique to DVD, for immediate consumer identification and awareness; resist damage to itself or to the disc; be environmentally responsible; be source-tagged; and have retail identity labeling. The VSDA also suggests that a DVD package be 5 5/8 inches wide (the same as a CD) by 7 3/8 inches high (the same as a VHS tape).

Among the most popular choices in DVD packaging are: the book style, which opens like a book; the slider, with a molded tray, which is pulled out like a drawer from one end; and the traditional Jewel Box.

When it comes to securing the disc within the packaging, again there are various options. Some boxes have a center hub that holds the disc in place by applying slight pressure; others have a locking mechanism. The "slider" style holds the disc in place from the outer edges.

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