Example of custom lightscribe dvd labelThe LightScribe technology was a method previously used only by large CD and DVD manufacturing plants, but is now available to the home CD and DVD user. Light Scribe is a technology which utilizes a special coating for CDs and DVDs, making it possible for home users to produce laser etched labels, as opposed to printable disk media or stick on labels. Light Scribe was developed by Daryl Anderson and Dr. Makarand Gore. Hewlett Packard, the company that Daryl Anderson worked for at the time, brought the product to market.

Hardware

To take advantage of LightScribe technology requires a special burner. There are many choices depending on your needs. For regular consumers, LightScribe hardware is available as both internal and external drives. You will know if your drive is LightScribe compatible by the LightScribe logo and will noticeably have a special sensor that standard DVD drives do not have.

For heavy or commercial users, the ACARD Standalone DVD/CD Controller is best for those who need a Native SATA duplication environment. The Aleratec DVD CD Autoloaders can flip a CD or DVD after burning data and also burn the label on the opposite side without any intervention by the operator. The Aleratec DVD CD Tower Publisher's SLS is meant for small resellers, as it can burn and label up to 15 CDs or DVDs at a time.

Software

In addition to a Light Scribe compatibale DVD burner, you will also need two software applications: The label making software and the Light Scribe system software. The label design software sometimes includes the Light Scribe system software, but not always. Make sure to have both. As for the Light Scribe system software, the hardware manufacturers all have their own fully compatible softwares solutions; however, the Light Scribe web site has universal versions for Linux, Mac, and Windows. Light Scribe also has products known as the Simple Labeler and the Template Labeler to help with design for beginners.

The label design software can be third party, as many label design applications are now partnered with Light Scribe to bring the consumer fully functional laser etching technology. These third party designers include Nero, Neato, Droppix, Sonic, Surething, Targetcast, and many more. The most popular programs among these are made by Nero (Cover Designer) and Roxio (Label Creator).

Media (dvd/optical disc)

Colored lightscribe dvds and dual layer dvdsLightScribe media discs contain a thin dye on the label side, developed by Dr. Makarand Gore. Light Scribe media are unique because of this special coating. When the laser hits the dye, it causes a chemical change which etches the design into the dye in a visible and attractive way. Light Scribe media do not scratch, as the dye is integrated into the media. It can take anywhere from 2 to 20 minutes to finish an image, depending on its size. Light Scribe burners etch from the inside of a dvd going outwards, so bigger designs will take the longest.

LightScribe DVDs are produced by many quality disc makers, including Verbatim, Imation, and Kodak. Be sure that you are obtaining the correct type of LightScribe DVD, as the list for LightScribe DVD+R and LightScribe DVD-R manufacturers are slightly different. Verbatim has recently released a dual-layer Lightscribe DVD.

Most LightScribe DVD manufacturers allows consumers to order DVDs from them with the use of their websites. Light Scribe CDs and DVDs are also available at large retail chains that normally carry media products from these manufacturers. LightScribe CDs and DVDs are availabe with assorted background colors including green, blue, orange, red and yellow.

 

LightScribe Tips

To achieve the best effect when burning your Light Scribe label, make sure you keep in mind these tips:

  • LightScribe discs burn from the inside out. So to decrease burn times if you have a smaller design, make sure you put the text and graphics as close to the middle of the disc as possible.
  • LightScribe burns in a circular motion. Think circular patterns to save time.
  • If possible, contain your Light Scribe designs to either the inside, middle, or outside part of the disc. Spacing a design out could cause a longer wait time. The design software has modes designed for this purpose, Title Mode, Content Mode, and Full Mode.
  • Light Scribe automatically realigns discs if they need to be printed over for a darker effect. Do not be afraid to print the same disc twice if you need to get a deeper hue in your design.

The Light Scribe technology gives you the ability to produce professional looking media that was once only available to large duplication plants and manufacturers. Use it to create a more professional image for your business or personal use.