Is it ok to put labels or magnetic strips on DVDs?
It depends on the label. If a label or adhesive strip is heavy enough it can unbalance the disc and cause read errors or slow down the disc speed. This is especially a problem with magnetic strips for library or rental store security. As DVD-ROM drives get faster and faster, an unbalanced becomes more critical. DVD players and drives are designed to compensate for unbalanced discs, so a thin, light label is usually ok. Pressure-sensitive adhesives break down over time, or may be weak to begin with, so it’s possible for a label to come loose while the disc is spinning and damage the player or drive. The best option is a ring-shaped “donut” label that goes around the center of the disc. As long as the circular label doesn’t interfere with the player clamping onto the hub, it should be ok. If you have to use a non-circular sticker, place it as close to the center as possible to minimize unbalancing. Placing a second sticker straight across from the center will also help. High-adhesion lab
Labels and adhesive strips are a bad idea since they can unbalance the disc and cause errors, or even damage a player, especially if they peel off while the disc is spinning. Pressure-sensitive adhesives break down over time, so it’s possible for labels to come loose after a few years. Libraries and DVD rental outlets often want to label discs or attach magnetic strips for security, but it’s best not to use them at all. If you must, use a ring-shaped “donut” label that goes around the center of the disc. As long as the circular label doesn’t interfere with the player clamping onto the hub, it should be ok. If you have to use a non-circular sticker, place it as close to the center as possible to minimize unbalancing. Placing a second sticker straight across from the center will also help. Writing with a marker in the clear (not reflective) area at the hub is better than using a sticker, although there’s not much room to write. Write only in the area inside a 44-mm diameter. Writing anyw
