F.A.Q

F.A.Q

We know you'll have certain questions before placing an order, so we've gathered together some of the frequently asked questions by our customers. If there is a question that is not answered here then please contact us where we will be happy to assist. 

1. What is the difference with duplication and replication?

Duplication is the process through which you "burn" the original content file from the master to an industrial recordable CD or DVD. It is a much faster method of production than replication and generally utilized for lower disc amounts or when time is of the essence. It's important to know that there is no real quality difference between duplicated or replicated discs apart from the underside of disc will have a green tinge to the look of a CD, and a DVD will have a purple colour underside, this is the natural dye where the information is stored. Both are quality controlled and bit for bit verified as being identical to the original master. The choice between duplication and replication is more a function of quantity and/or turnaround time. If you need your discs in a hurry, or require a lower quantity of discs, then duplication is the only option.

Replication is the process of "stamping" your data into an injection moulded CD. These discs are like the audio CDs or DVDs you buy at music shops and have a silver look to them. The silver look is because of the aluminium that is used to reflect the laser that is used when you play your disc. Replication is normally used for higher quantities where it's important to get the per disc price near or below £1.00 each. Often the replication process requires that you order a minimum amount of discs to cover the setup costs.

The minimum 'industry standard' for replication is usually 1000 discs. The process is less expensive than duplication because your data is actually built into the construction of the disc and not added later. That's an important fact because you can not add to, delete or change any of the information once its pressed into the discs.

2. What is the average duplication / replication lead time?

Duplication is usually between 5 to 7 days as standard, however we will always try to get your discs to you quicker than the given lead time. We can also offer an express service where you can have your duplicated discs in as little as 24 hours.  Replication takes a little longer because of the process that is involved, so anywhere between 12 and 14 days is when you can expect to receive your replicated discs. 

3. What is 'on body' printing?

On body printing is the process of printing images direct to the surface of the disc. We do not use labels as these tend to unbalance the disc and render the disc unreliable. We have many methods of on body disc printing, from cost effective inkjet print which produces superb ultra high resolution images, to industry standard thermal disc printing, which gives equally ultra high resolution pictures and a superb durable finish. Which ever method you choose, you are guaranteed a finish that will look great.

4.  How will the on-body print and paper parts compare?

There will be a slight variation due to the fact that paper is porous and the disc is not. All jobs are matched as closely as possible but slight variations are possible due to the separate processes, however we always colour match to the best of our ability.

5. What software applications can I use to produce my artwork in?

There are many software applications on the market today that can be useful in producing your artwork.  We can support a wide variety of artwork software but we recommend using software that can open PDF formats such as Photoshop and Illustrator.

6. Do you have any design templates I can use for my artwork?

Yes. We have all the templates ready for download here so you can get the exact measurements for your artwork. We highly recommend you use these templates as they contain bleed and text safe guides. If you need any help with templates then please call us where we will be more than happy to guide you through the process. 

7. Must I use your templates?

We recommend that you use our templates as they are set out to the correct dimensions and resolution, however it is not necessary to use them as long as you adhere to the specific guidelines for artwork.

8. Should my artwork be set to CMYK or RGB?

For all CD / DVD & BLU-RAY products along with printed paper parts, your artwork should be set to CMYK or PMS (Pantone). RGB is for on-screen colour only an should not be used. 

9. What is the smallest type size I should use?

We recommend that the smallest font size for any artwork is 6pt. Anything smaller may be unsuitable  for viewing correctly.

10. What resolution should my artwork be?

One of the many issues that we have come across regarding artwork is the incorrect resolution size.  The correct resolution should be 300dpi, anything less will output a pixelated image and not look sharp. Rescaling low quality images to 300 dpi will result in low quality output, so please remember to set your artwork project to 300dpi before you start.

11. How do I send my artwork files once I have completed them?

We have set up a dedicated server which can accept large files reliably and securely. You will need to email us to receive your specific login details where you can then upload your files. Please see the ordering section where you will find the folder to upload your files. 

12. Do you offer a design service?

Yes. We have talented and creative staff that can help design the perfect eye catching artwork for your product. Whatever the feel and theme is, we can bring that idea to life after a brief understanding of what you require.

13. What packaging options are available for my project?

When it comes to packaging, there are many options available that are bound to suit your project needs. We can supply everything from standard CD jewel cases and DVD cases, to embossed tins and digipaks. We can help you find the right packaging and make sure you are happy with the final outcome. Please see our packaging range here 

14. Can you provide print proofs for all my design work prior to printing?

If required, we can provide you with a pre-print artwork proof that you can check before going ahead with any printing. This will be printed on the exact same paper as what you can expect in your final product. Please note that the first print proof will be free of charge but further print proofs will be charged for.

15. How do I pay?

We can accept payment by card / cheque and bank transfer. The most frequent payment method is by credit / debit card. We will require card details up front and 50% of the invoice total will be charged upon receipt of master discs and artwork, the remaining total will be charged on job completion and day of dispatch.  If paying by cheque, this should be sent along with the order to give clearance time. If you need any further assistance regarding payment then please contact us where we will be happy to assist you.

16. What is your returns policy?

In the unlikely event that any of your discs are faulty, we will replace these free of charge.  As our customer, we want your complete satisfaction and will honour any issues or defects should they arise.

18. How do I obtain a barcode for my project?

For retail ready products we recommend you obtain a barcode number from www.barcode1.co.uk who will be able to provide you with a barcode number from £20* which will be recognized globally. We will then place this barcode on your product. Your product is now ready for retail sales.

*As from time of writing, Product price may vary.

19. What is the AACS license required for Blu-Ray Replication?

AACS stands for "Advanced Access Content System".  It is a contract between the disc content owner and the AACS licencing authority and is required by all replicators prior to production of Blu-ray discs.

AACS basically works as a copy-protection system to stop unauthorised copies of discs being produced by introducing a "key" into the media during the replication process, however the replicator is unable to introduce this "key" without an official valid licence provided by the content owner who must apply for this directly from the AACS authority without any involvement from Discsmart or its manufacturer. 

Charges will be levied by the AACS authority during the application stage and the licence document involves a written contract. For more information please visit their website: http://www.aacsla.com

Once the licence is obtained, there are also charges, (albeit slightly lower ones) that must be paid to the replication company for application of the technology (mastering fee and per-disc surcharge). To simplify this already complex process for its customers, Discsmart includes these charges in your unit price when quoting for Blu-Ray Replication.

20. Is the Blu-Ray AACS license required for Blu-Ray Duplication?

Blu-ray duplication (burning blank BDR media) does not require the master to be encoded with AACS. The royalties and licence is already paid for in the cost of the blank Blu-Ray media. BDR media (at this time) is still quite expensive at this stage of Blu-ray development.