How long are rewritable DVDs good for?

[Jskid]

Not sure if this is true but someone told me rewritable CDs die out after a year. Does this happen with DVDs? Does it matter how many times you have written to them?

 

[BeastMode 17]

DVD RW Life Span

I have never had a burned DVD or CD go out on me after a year however according to researchers they only have a lifespan of 2-5 years. This however will help answer your question I think! http://forums.cnet.com/7723-10149_102-152618.html

 

[Jskid]

Thanks for that.

 

[BeastMode 17]

No Problem

 

[SNGX1275]

This isn't exactly what you asked for, but you might find the results interesting anyway: Psuedo-scientific study of CD-R data longevity.

Basically I think if you treat them well and keep them out of the sun they should last at least 5 years. I don't think its unrealistic to expect 10 years. But, if the data is very important to you, having only one copy is bad practice.

 

[AColeman]

Hi

Well I can give you a sure answer and it is "no", I've had rewritable CDs and DVDs for over 5 years and I've still been able to use them so they won't die out as long as you have never tried to burn anything on it before.

 

[Jskid]

Well I can give you a sure answer and it is "no", I've had rewritable CDs and DVDs for over 5 years and I've still been able to use them so they won't die out as long as you have never tried to burn anything on it before.

Ya that's what I meant. I had a rewritable cd with an old backup and for some reason it no longer works. I tested it right after creation and about 5 years latter I tested it again and it was dead. I kept in a case but it may have over heated from the weather.