Mitsubishi Chemical Media Co., Ltd. will release the ARLEDIA series of DVD-R media in March, manufactured for long-term storage of critical data.

The "ARLEDIA" series of DVD-R discs have been named after the AU/Ag (Gold/silver) reflective layer the company has applied, in order to achieve high durability and reliability of the disc. In general, a gold reflective layer is naturally resistant to corrosion, prevents oxygen from corroding the silver reflective layer. Silver oxidation can be a primary factor, which limits the lifetime of your CD and DVD media. In addition, silver layers offer high reflectivity which means high compatibility.

The company claims that the new 1~8x 4.7GB DVD-Rs are two times more reliable than conventional DVD-R media, after testing under a accelerating aging conditions. Estimated lifetime tests under an environment of 88 C and 80% RH have shown that the new DVD-R media lasts twice than conventional DVD-Rs.



Mitsubishi has also applied a new variation of its proprietary DYN-AZO technology in the recording layer, which produces recording layer with an improved power margin and greater sensitivity, while it is highly resistant to exposure to light and heat. In addition, the DVDs have a hard coating that protects the recording surface against scratches and rough handling.

The new products will be available in Japan as single discs, at an estimated retail price of 600 JYEN (U.S. $5.6).

Focus on Blu-ray production

In related news, Mitsubishi announced its plans to accelerate production of Blu-ray Discs, anticipating higher demand since Toshiba's decision to exit the HD DVD business. At its Singapore plant, the firm will install a production line for recordable Blu-ray Discs.

The new line is slated to be in service in July or August and is expected to produce 500,000 units a month.

Mitsubishi currently makes 200,000 Blu-ray Discs a month at its Mizushima factory.

The new line at the Singapore plant will raise monthly production to 700,000 units.

In addition, the firm will begin outsourcing some production to foreign manufacturers.