DVD authoring. The phrase 'DVD Authoring' refers to the process of taking video content, processing it and transferring the final version to a DVD master. Typically a DVD-R for short runs or DLT tape for longer runs.

Most projects will require Mpeg encoding and the provision of a basic menu. More complex projects may require features including Title sequence's, backgrounds, multi layered Menu's, Chapter breaks, Foreign language audio tracks and Sub titles. Web links can also be added. For commercial release copy protection and region coding may also be required.

As with most 'multi media' projects DVD Authoring requires both creative and technical input. The quality of the source material be it video or graphical, will determine how the end result will look once all the technical processes have been completed.

During the Authoring process DVD-R disks may be written for test purposes prior to the production of a final master. The master may take 2 forms. A DVD-R is your best choice if you need to produce short run's of DVD-5's. A DLT (Digital Linear Tape) master will be required if you intend to produce larger runs of DVDs or DVD's in formats other than DVD-5. For most clients this would mean DVD-9.

As a rough rule of thumb a DVD-5 will hold around 2 hours of video or 4.7Gb of data . If your program length is longer then you probably need DVD-9.

If you would like us to quote for your Authoring Project then we need to know as much information as you can give us. Ideally as a minimum:

• Length of your video content
• PAL or NTSC
• Details of your proposed menu structure and number of chapter breaks.
• The format you propose to supply Graphics and Video.
• Details of any Sub Titles and / or extra audio tracks.