DVD-RW - technical definition

(DVD-Read Write) A rewritable (re-recordable) DVD disc for both movies and data from the DVD Forum. Also called "DVD Dash RW" and "DVD Minus RW," DVD-RW uses phase change recording. The media hold 4.7GB per side and can be rewritten 1,000 times. See DVD drives, DVD, DVD+RW and optical disc.

In practice, the term "DVD" refers to all DVD formats. The phrase "rewrite the data on the DVD" really means "rewrite the data on the DVD-RW or DVD+RW." See DVD.

(DVD+Read Write) A rewritable (re-recordable) DVD disc for both movies and data from the DVD+RW Alliance. DVD+RW media can be read on DVD-Video players and computer DVD-ROM drives. Using phase change technology, the first DVD+RW discs held 3GB per side, but were later increased to the industry standard 4.7GB. A double sided disc holds 9.4GB. DVD+RW supports both the CLV and CAV recording formats, the latter providing more uniform random access for interactive data applications.

In practice, the term "DVD" refers to all DVD formats. The phrase "rewrite the data on the DVD" really means "rewrite the data on the DVD+RW or DVD-RW." See DVD drives, DVD, DVD-RW and optical disc.