Both CD and DVD discs have a circular center hub -- the axis on which the disc spins when inserted into a drive. But DVD discs are made differently from CDs; while CDs are made from one layer of plastic, DVDs are made from two tiny layers of plastic that, together, match the standard thickness of a CD. Because the two layers of a DVD disc are not bonded all the way to the center and are tinier by themselves, the DVD hub is weaker and more fragile than a CD's. A DVD disc can actually sustain damage if stored in a traditional CD jewel case because these cases hold a DVD's center too firmly. If the circular DVD hub becomes damaged, any movies, data, photos or audio files stored on the disc can be lost. To avoid such a loss, DVDs need special care and storage.
"Most consumers think that it's safe to store a DVD disc in a CD jewel case. But jewel cases generally don't have the right type of centering hub to safely store DVD discs and keep them from separating or cracking," said Kristi Lanzit, computer accessories product manager. "Using our expert knowledge of optical media and accessories, Memorex designed a complete line of DVD storage cases to complement our top-selling brand of DVD discs. Our cases have a specially designed and fabricated center that is flexible and will properly store DVD discs."
