Windows 7 - New M-Disc Technology Promises Permanent Data Retention

Brink · 08-08-2011

Quote:

More and more folks are turning to cloud services like Dropbox to store their oh-so-precious private data, but when it comes to truly valuable info, it's still a good idea to keep a physical backup disc around in case those virtual services crap out on you. Then again, CDs and DVDs scratch waaaaay too easily and have limited shelf lives. If you've ever been screwed by a big gouge across an important backup disc, you might want to check out the new optical media that's hitting the market soon. Supposedly, it lasts forever, and the Department of Defense vouches for its resiliency.

Read more at: Maximum PC | New M-Disc Technology Promises Permanent Data Retention

TBoyd · 08-08-2011

An interesting read. As a photographer I have been concerned about archived image files I have on CD & DVD.

Brink · 08-08-2011

Indeed. This will be great to keep reliable backups and copies of anything forever.

seekermeister · 08-08-2011

Since it will require a dedicated burner, or firmware patch to make a disc, I'm wondering how likely it is that the major optical drive manufacturers will provide them? I'm not crazy about the idea of paying $3 for a disc, but it is a reasonable price...assuming that one won't be forced to buy an expensive burner to use them.

sygnus21 · 08-08-2011

Quote: Originally Posted by TBoyd

An interesting read. As a photographer I have been concerned about archived image files I have on CD & DVD.

Same here.

I see the disks will be a tad expensive and require a M-Disc burner. I also see write speed will be low. I'm sure however that as technology gets better so will prices and speed.

A nice welcomed addition though.

PwnFrnzy · 08-08-2011

You will never have to worry about a damaged Windows (version here) disk ever again.

HQuest · 08-08-2011

It lasts forever, or lasts until last reader unit exists? That's a big difference.

Still, anything which is able to survive longer than current discs is welcome. Did you noticed how badly scratched are those rented movie discs nowadays? -- assuming you know what a disc rental is, now in the streaming days

GeneO · 08-08-2011

That is still a lot of disks to match a HDD for keeping hundreds of GB of photos or videos. But hey, 'bout time.

n0th1n9 · 08-08-2011

They need to get rid of optical drives and media.

MilesAhead · 08-08-2011

I quit reading when the "torture test" talked about LN2 exposure. I'd be more impressed if somebody with a pocket knife dragged the blade across and it still read 100%. I don't know about you guys but I've never dropped an optical disc in liquid nitrogen even on a bad day!!

If successful it would demonstrate that the caveman who came up with etching stuff in stone was way way wayyyyyyyyyyyyyyy ahead of his time!