Disc Types

• A few different types of blank DVDs can be used to copy onto: DVD-R, DVD+R, DVD-RW and DVD+RW. The main differences are that the RW discs can be re-recorded up to 1,000 times--as opposed to the single time offered by the others--and the "minus" formats are more compatible with standard DVD players as well as DVD-ROM drives.
  
  

Capacity

• Each type of blank DVD offers 4.7 gigabytes of storage capacity and up to two hours of video files, while the more advanced dual-layer discs offer twice that capacity.
  
  

Terms

• The process of saving files from a DVD to the hard drive is known as "ripping." "Burning" means saving data files on a DVD and at times finalizing the disc as well to be played in other DVD players and DVD-ROM drives.
  
  

External/Internal

• Some computers--mainly older ones--require an external DVD burner to copy DVDs, though most new computers come with an internal DVD burner drive, making copying much simpler.
  
  

Copyright Protection

• While most personal and homemade DVDs can be easily copied, trying to make a copy of a studio-produced movie DVD most likely can't be done because copyright protection software embedded in the discs prevents it.