what does -r, +r on cd's and cvd's mean?

Answer 1

Generally the R stands for recordable. Meaning you can record onto them. RW stands for Read/Write or Rewritable, meaning you can record and erase, so they aren't just one-short recordable deals.

For DVDs there are two formats, -R and +R. Computers DVD drives can read both types.

The -R format came first and is supported by almost all DVD players. The +R format is newer and generally allows for faster recording times and greater reliability, but not as many consumer devices like DVD players recognize those discs. Newer players have no problem, but something you bought back in 1997- probably not. So lots of people out there have DVD players that can read DVD-R just fine, but not DVD+R.

Answer 2

CD-R or CD+R means the same and indicates its a writable disc the original name for this was CD-WO(Write Once). this means you can only put data on it once and you cant remove it after that.

CD-RW or CD+RW means ReWritable meaning you can burn and erase data on it as long as the metal 'film' is still intact. you are actually carving pits in a cd with a laser beam thats why its warm when you take it out.

Answer 3

CD's can be -R or -RW. CD-RW is rewritable, CD-R can be written once. DVD's are -RW or +RW, I'm not sure what the difference is, I think they are two competing standards.

Answer 4

The 'r' stand for 'read' (as opposed to the 'w' for write') and the +and- I'm not sure. But my husband cares which one it is. oops, correction. it stands for the formatting type, not read. ignore this.. I thought I knew, but I was wrong.

Answer 5

http://www.videohelp.com/dvd
hope this helps you