At the risk of sounding overly anal,
from the viewpoint of someone that tends to stand just outside a discussion most of the time so as to get a better view of the big picture, I think this discussion underscores a common theme. I am one of those people that loves science and math, and is schooled in economics. While there have been several excellent technical points raised here relative to the most effective and safest means of marking on disks, I wonder if the issue, or better yet, the impression that these "warnings" are intended to leave us with, is more
economic based than scientific.
It seems that more and more these days, we are faced with reports publicized (not necessarily published) that suggest a certain position or action on our part in favor of, or against, a certain product. This is where common sense must rule! For example, the company making special markers for CD/DVD labeling wants you to believe that a standard Sharpie will damage the disk somehow. Whether or not that is a fact may be overshadowed by their desire to sell as many markers as they can (economics)!
We as the consumer must show some common sense in dealing with this
potential misinformation. I think the beauty of forums like this is that we get the benefit of the experiences of our piers. Their actual experiences are the real value, such as TCJ's with 8 to 10 year old CDRs.
Make no mistake, I am not supporting the use of stick-on labels. Common sense should tell you that they present a real danger to players, etc. But I have also used Sharpies a great deal with no issues.
Years ago there was a report that VHS tapes would degrade over a few years if not used regularly. Well, I have tapes that were recorded over 20 years ago, and get played about once every 5 to 10 years. They're fine. I think we were being asked to unnecessarily buy more tapes.
Here I am writing a book again. Someone stop me please!! Hey Ladyridge, do I get credit for multiple posts if mine go over a certain length?
lol
Todd