DVD not playing back and freezing up
 

We have the following problem. The DVD we currently use to copy videos (Memorex DVD-R 4.7 GB, 16 x) will play back OK on our Emerson LD190EM2 new TV's OK. Occasionally if we play them back numerous times or on repeat mode, the DVD will freeze up or we get a message disc error. What do you know about the quality of these DVD's? We need a DVD that will play continually on repeat mode for 8 hours per day at the trade shows we go to. Do you have any suggestions on which DVD's are good for burning and copying? We purchased the Verbatim DVD-R 4.7 GB, 16x 120 min. AZO 100 pack because the ratings were good.

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Welcome to the site. :)

Memorex is a cheap brand that re-brands low-grade media. They're so notorious for shoddy blank media (both tape and disc), that they've earned nicknames like "Memorsux" and "Memowrecks". You should first do whatever you can to avoid blanks issued by this brand, most of which are CMC Magnetics discs.

If you've not yet read our guide on blank DVD media, do so now: Blank DVD Media Quality Review - What are the Best Blank DVDs?

Part of your problem may not just be the disc, but the DVD player. DVD players embedded into TV sets are, to be frank, craptastic. Discs are affected by temperature, among the many environmental variables, and these DVD players simply may not work well after heating up from 8+ hours of use. I've seen the same problems with several DVD players and DVD recorders through the years. The equipment has to cool down. Samsung, JVC and Toshiba players are not good for full-day playback. Emerson is another low-end brand, so I'm not all that surprised. You may have to use external DVD players from Philips.

Go ahead and try to use new discs. But if the problem persists, it's the players.

Be very sure to get AZO Verbatim discs, not the "Life Series" or "Value Series" Verbatim discs. The three types are NOT the same (Life and Value are pretty much the same, however: junk). "Metal AZO" is actually an azoic dye type patented by Verbatim parent Mitsubishi, and only recently have they started to use it as a disc brand marking.

You're guaranteed to get the "good ones" from the links on the guide: Blank DVD Media Quality Review - What are the Best Blank DVDs?

Let me know how this turns out for you. Definitely reply when you have the time. :thumb: