Sony RDR-GX7 Specification sheet

DVD Recorder
RDR-GX7
Technical Notes

INDEX
Chapter 1 The Era of Recordable DVD
DVD players have become very popular. Now, the era of recordable DVD has finally arrived. 3
The merits of DVD recording 3
Recordable DVD specifications 4
Chapter 2 Features of Recordable DVD Formats
Recordable DVD operates through a combination of three format layers 5
The Physical Format 5
Playback and recording configuration 5
Differences in disc side construction 5
Different types of physical formats 6
The Logical Format 7
The Application Format 7
Technical tips: Sony's High Quality Blank Disc Products 8
Summary of Chapter 2 9
Chapter 3 Sony is Dual RW Compatible
Sony's concept is Dual RW Compatible 10
DVD Recorder Format Compatibility at Present 10
Compatibility With Over 100 Million DVD Players Now In Use 10
The Concept Called Dual RW Compatible 10
DVD Recorder based on the Dual RW Compatible concept – Sony RDR GX7 10
Compatible Playback Formats of the Sony RDR GX7 DVD Recorder 11
Technical tips: Dual RW Compatible Is Also Gaining Popularity in the PC Field 11
Chapter 4 1 Product Summary
Introducing the Sony RDR GX7 DVD Recorder 12
Now you can make your own DVD recordings at home 13
Chapter 4 2 DV Edit
Camcorder recordings are easily archived on DVD 14
Record from DV or Digital 8 tape to DVD i.LINK makes it simple 14
Technical tips: Auto Scene Chaptering 15
Two high level editing functions make it easy to create your own DVD 16
Chapter 4 3 Features
RDR GX7's convenient recording and playback features 18
Easy DVD recording 18
Editing on disc capability 18
Technical tips: Disc model recording 20
Chapter 4 4 High uality image & sound
High quality image performance for recording and playback on DVD 21
High quality image performance from input to output 21
Pre processing to achieve DVD recording with high quality image performance 22
VBR encoding using Sony's original algorithms 23
Post processing to obtain the highest possible image quality from the disc 24
High grade audio circuit design for high sound quality 28
Chapter 4 5 Easy use
Interactive GUI (Graphic User Interface) screen for convenient operation 29
Chapter 4 6 Drive and Deck mechanism
New technology adopted in the optical pickup, drive and deck mechanism 31
Newly developed Dual Drive 31
Solidly designed mechanism for top performance in all areas 32
Specifications 33
2

DVD-Video disc has now become the standard for enjoying
movies and concerts with high uality images and sound.
Since the introduction in 1996, its growth in popularity has
been phenomenal. Not only are DVD players more
mainstream, but also DVD drives can be found in many
audio-visual, computer and video game products. With DVD
playback now possible from a wide variety of e uipment,
DVD can now be enjoyed in many different ways and
applications.
Thanks to recordable DVD, the high uality images,
superior sound uality and remarkably versatile functions
provided by DVD can now be applied to home recording on a
digital disc. Furthermore, DVD can also be used as a high
capacity storage media for personal computers.
The merits of DVD recording
There are quite a number of advantages to recording television
programs and archiving personal video recordings onto optical
discs.
■ High uality images –
high uality digital sound recording
Recordable DVD digitally records video using the same MPEG
2 format used in DVD Video disc, while audio is digitally
recorded using Dolby Digital, with other possible formats. This
ensures extremely high quality video and audio recording, while
offering a high degree of playback compatibility with
conventional DVD players.
■ CD size, but with large recording capacity
One side of a DVD can hold up to 4.7 Gbytes, approximately
seven times the capacity of a CD. This high data capacity permits
extended video and audio recording. As DVDs are the same size
as CDs, just 12 cm in diameter and only 1.2 mm thick, even a
large video collection takes up very little space.
■ High-speed access for playback and editing
One major feature of disc media is quick random access for
superior convenience. For example, during playback, the
recorded contents can be confirmed by calling up the on screen
menu. A desired portion can then be selected for quick playback.
Even for recording, there is no need to worry about the starting
position like with tape. Just press the Record button and
recording operation can quickly begin on available blank space
on the disc.
■ Superior storage characteristics
Since the signal is read by non contact laser pickup, there is no
gradual deterioration in image or sound quality, no matter how
may times the disc is played back. In addition, there is no
stretching or print through as with tape, just high quality images
and sound, always. Furthermore, as the system is digital,
powerful error correction systems can be used to ensure greater
resistance against dirt and scratches, for highly reliable playback.
■ Compatible recording for playback
in a wide variety of places
Discs recorded can be played on most conventional DVD
players, allowing them to be used in many different ways, such
as “video messages” to relatives. Playback is also possible in a
car, or on a video game console.
■ Non-linear editing on disc
With tape media, since editing requires dubbing from tape to
tape, even simple editing procedures like erasing unwanted
scenes requires a lot of time because the entire content must be
recorded over again. Moreover, if the result isn't satisfactory, this
time consuming process must be repeated again from the start.
However, with recordable DVD, editing can be performed on the
disc itself. Unwanted scenes can be eliminated almost instantly
with a simple operation. In addition, the order of the scenes may
be changed, with new titles created for collections of multiple
scenes, thereby offering highly versatile editing.
Chapter 1
The Era of Recordable
DVD
DVD players have become very popular.
Now, the era of recordable DVD has finally arrived.
RDR GX7 Technical Notes
3
video recording
High quality digital recording of
audio and video
MPEG-2
audio recording
Dolby Digital
Linear PCM
MPEG audio
4.7Gbytes per DVD
CD 640 MB 7
Primary recording formats of recordable DVD
High data capacity of DVD
Note: there is also a
specification for an 8 cm
DVD with 1.46 Gbytes
capacity
recordable DVD
DV
Oh, let’s watch
from this scene
VHS
Broadcast
Digital Video
Enjoying various sources conveniently on DVD
recordable DVD
analog tape repeated playback
repeated playback
Durability of DVD
Enjoy DVD!
Thank you.
Various ways of
enjoying DVD

Recordable DVD specifications
At present, there are five different types of Write once and Re
writable DVD media, each with their own specifications. These
different media include DVD R, DVD RW, DVD+RW, DVD+R
and DVD RAM. The following is a brief explanation of their
respective development and features.
■ DVD-R
This is a “write once” format, and as with CD R, it can only be
recorded once. The DVD Forum has formalized this
specification as DVD R (specification name: DVD Recordable).
Since DVD R was originally developed as a way to create master
discs and operation testing discs for DVD ROM as well as DVD
Video, one of its major features is very high compatibility with
DVD Video. The data capacity was formally set at 4.7 Gbytes
with the Version 2.0 specification (for authoring) established in
February, 2000, and for the Version 2.0 specification (for general
use) established in May, 2000 and its capacity is the same as
other recordable DVD media.
■ DVD-RW
Recordable DVD media that can be “re written” with new
content is called “rewritable.” These include DVD RW
(specification name: DVD Re recordable), which was formalized
as a standard by the DVD Forum. Specifications are very close to
those of DVD ROM and DVD Video. DVD RW is compatible
with two different recording formats, including Version 1.0
specifications for DVD Video Recording format, plus the Version
1.1 standard for DVD Video format recording, adopted March
2000, which enables playback on conventional DVD players.
The discs can be rewritten approximately 1,000 times.
■ DVD+RW
DVD+RW (specification name: DVD+ReWritable) was
announced as a re writable DVD specification in October 1999.
It is being promoted for adoption in CD R/RW drives and media
primarily by a group of eight manufacturers called the DVD+RW
Alliance*. The recording method uses the same phase
modulation technology as used in DVD RAM and DVD RW.
Importance is placed on compatibility with existing DVD ROM
drives and DVD players. Random reading and writing operations
are also highlighted, to enable application as a data storage
medium for computers. The discs can be rewritten approximately
1,000 times.
* Dell, Hewlett Packard, Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation, Philips
Electronics, Ricoh Company Ltd., Thompson Multimedia, Yamaha
Corporation, and Sony Corporation.
■ DVD+R
In January 2002, the DVD+RW Alliance developed DVD+R
(specification name: DVD+Recordable) based on DVD+RW, but
since mistaken erasures are not possible, it is ideal as a storage
medium. Since the reflection ratio is higher than that of
DVD+RW, there is higher playback compatibility with
conventional DVD playback equipment.
■ DVD-RAM
DVD RAM (specification name: DVD Rewritable) is a
specification recognized by the DVD Forum. In July 1997, the
Version 1.0 specification was announced, featuring the disc in a
cartridge and 2.6 Gbytes capacity per disc side. Then, in
September 1999 the Version 2.0 specification was announced,
with 4.7 Gbytes capacity per disc side for a total of 9.4 Gbytes.
DVD RAM is not compatible with existing DVD ROM drives
and DVD players. However, each side can be re written
approximately 100,000 times, making it a highly functional
medium for computer data storage.
While recordable discs are most commonly distinguished by the
five different disc names for their physical formats, they will
have different characteristics and capabilities depending upon the
recording formats (application formats) used with them.
A detailed explanation of formats will be given in Chapter 2.
Chapter 1
The Era of Recordable
DVD
RDR GX7 Technical Notes
4
DVD-R
DVD-RW
DVD+RW
DVD+R
DVD-RAM
1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003
10
Single Side 3.0 Gbytes
Double Side 6.0 Gbytes
03
Ver. 1.0
Single Side 4.7 Gbytes
07
Ver. 1.0
Single Side 2.6 Gbytes
09
Ver. 2.0
Single Side 4.7 Gbytes Double Side 9.4 Gbytes
01
Ver. 1.0
Single Side 4.7 Gbytes
11
Ver. 1.0
03
Ver. 1.1
Single Side 4.7 Gbytes
07
Ver. 1.0
Single Side 3.95 Gbytes
02 Ver. 2.0 for Authoring Single Side 4.7 Gbytes
05 Ver. 2.0 for General Single Side 4.7 Gbytes
Note: The issue dates of the documents listed above are from the original versions of the copyright owners. However, the DVD+RW 3.0 Gbyte and 6.0 Gbyte versions only are ISO/IEC 16969:1999.
History of Recordable DVD
At present, high speed, recordable discs are being
developed for each of these formats. In the near future,
these discs will become available and are expected to
improve data storage capabilities for computers.

DVD specifications are configured with three format layers;
the physical format, the logical (sometimes called theoretical)
format and the application format.
The physical format can be likened to the sheet of paper on
which an essay is written. In this case, the paper is the DVD disc
and there are several types, DVD R DVD+R, DVD RW,
DVD+RW and DVD RAM. Each is made with different
materials, and has different specifications and its own distinct
characteristics. For example, an ‘essay’ written on DVD RW can
be erased and re written many different times, while an ‘essay’
on DVD R, due to the nature of the materials it is made of, can
only be written once and cannot be erased.
The logical format can be likened to the way in which letters
are written on the essay paper, plus the lines on the paper which
are necessary for accurate reading. Moreover, if there are no
lines on the paper, then the letters cannot be accurately written
down. These lines determine how the letters and words are to be
written onto the paper and are used to correctly manage the
words themselves. In specific terms, technologies such as UDF
and ISO 9660 represent these ‘lines’ on the paper.
Finally, the application format can be considered the
language of the essay. These ‘languages’ include DVD Video,
DVD Video Recording, DVD Audio, and DVD+RW Video. For
example, if an ‘essay’ is written in DVD Video ‘language,’ it will
have different characteristics than exactly the same ‘essay’
written in DVD VR ‘language.’ The DVD Video ‘language’ is
considered the native ‘language’ in the world of DVD players.
Theoretically, this type of DVD recording should be capable of
being be read by any DVD player. Alternatively, if the ‘essay’ is
in the ‘language’ of DVD VR, it can be freely edited using a
variety of inherent editing functions.
In this chapter we will explain in detail about these three
different format layers.
The Physical Format
The physical format is the specifications of the actual physical
dimensions and characteristics of the disc itself. The external
dimensions of 4.7 Gbytes DVD disc media are exactly the same
as those of a CD, 120 mm in diameter (or 80 mm) and two disc
sides of 0.6 mm each, for a total thickness of 1.2 mm. However,
the materials in the recordable layer and the configuration of disc
sides will vary.
Playback and recording configuration
Reading the signal from the disc is done in the same way as with
other optical disc playback media such as CD and DVD Video
software, with a laser beam reflecting off the surface of the disc.
The modulations of these reflections are read as ‘0’ or ‘1,’
representing the original digital data. Recording onto the disc
requires a stronger laser beam than that used for playback, since
the laser must heat up the recording material. Write once discs
such as DVD R and DVD+R use organic dye in the recording
layer, which chemically changes when exposed to heat. If a
strong laser beam is reflected onto organic dye, it causes a
chemical change that changes the light reflection ratio of that
spot. During playback, the laser reads these spots to extract the
signal from the disc. However, once the chemical change in the
organic dye has occurred, it cannot be changed back to its
original state.
Re writable discs such as DVD RW, DVD+RW and DVD
RAM use a compound which can be phase modulated. In the
recording layer, this phase modulation takes the form of either a
crystalline structure, or an amorphous non crystalline structure.
If strong laser light rapidly heats up a certain spot on the disc,
when it cools its crystalline structure becomes amorphous. When
the spot is slowly heated by a weaker laser it changes back to its
crystalline structure after it cools. Since the light reflection ratios
of the crystalline and amorphous structures are different, the ‘0’
and ‘1’ of digital data can be represented on the disc. Re writable
discs make use of this phase modulation technique to allow re
recording over previously recorded content.
Differences in disc side construction
The physical format of commercial DVD Video software and
other playback only DVD discs has a continuous line of recorded
pits on the disc, just like CD ROM. By reading these pits
optically, the disc can be played back.
Chapter 2
Features of Recordable
DVD Formats
Recordable DVD operates through a combination of
three format layers: the physical format, the logical
format and the application format.
RDR GX7 Technical Notes
5
Application format (language)
Logical format (lines on the paper)
Physical format (the paper itself)
The three format layers of DVD
Recording layer
Reflecting layer Playback Recording
Playback of spot changed
by the recording laser
Laser
Playback of spot not changed
by the recording laser
Optical pickup Comparison of laser output
During recording
During playback
Causing chemical change in organic dyes on
recordable discs
During recording
Playback Recording Erasing
Amorphous structure Crystalline structure
Laser
Optical pickup Comparison of laser output
Since the shape and light
reflection ratio for the
amorphous and the
crystalline structures differ,
the 0 and 1 of digital data
can be represented.
Recording layer
Using the phase change of recording material in
re-recordable discs

Different types of physical formats
The physical formats of all recordable DVD can be roughly
divided into two categories: the “wobble groove” type which
includes DVD RW, DVD R, DVD+RW and DVD+R; and
“wobble land groove” type of DVD RAM. The disc surface can
be configured with the following types of features: lands
(protrusions), grooves, pits (the recorded points) and wobbles
(snake like patterns). Lands and grooves are like guides which
enable correct tracking of the laser light beam during recording,
with wobbles used within the land grooves as markers to indicate
the circumference direction.
■ DVD-RW and DVD-R physical format
The physical format of DVD RW and DVD R discs uses
wobbled grooves, just like CD RW and CD R. Wobbles in the
grooves and breaks in the land areas called land pre pits (LPP)
are used to perform addressing. Recording pits are only located
in the groove areas. Track pitch is 0.74 microns, the same as
DVD ROM, with the light reflection ratio of DVD R roughly the
same as that of DVD ROM single layer, and the light reflection
ratio of DVD RW roughly the same as that of DVD ROM dual
layer. For both discs, physical construction is very close to that
of a playback only DVD Video disc.
■ DVD+RW and DVD+R physical format
The physical format of DVD+RW and DVD+R uses wobbled
grooves, just like DVD RW and DVD R. Track pitch is also the
same at 0.74 microns. The biggest difference between
DVD+RW/+R and DVD RW/ R is that the wobbles of
DVD+RW/+R are much finer. This is called a “high frequency
wobble.” The fineness of the wobble is some 37.1 times that of
CD RW/ R to enable addressing control with much higher
precision since the recording density of DVD is much higher
than that of CD RW/ R. The use of this high frequency wobble
enables a form of additional data recording technology without
breaks called “loss less linking.” For random writing common in
PC data recording, loss less linking reduces the data error
generation ratio. While loss less linking is specified as a
requirement for the DVD+RW format, it is an option on the
DVD RW format.
■ DVD-RAM physical format
The physical format of DVD RAM uses wobbled land and
grooves. Recorded pits are formed on both the land and groove
tracks, while track pitch is slightly smaller at 0.615 microns.
These features differentiate it from the other types of discs
explained in this section. In addition, DVD RAM also employs
Zoned CLV (Constant Linear Velocity) and an address
information area in the breaks between recorded tracks, making
data distribution completely different from that of playback only
DVD. Accordingly, special playback equipment is required for
DVD RAM. For this reason, DVD RAM is considered a format
in which priority is placed on having a higher number of re write
cycles, rather than on playback compatibility.
Chapter 2
Features of Recordable
DVD Formats
RDR GX7 Technical Notes
6
Wobble
Land Groove
Pit
Basic physical construction
of a recordable DVD disc
DVD-ROM DVD-RW/-R DVD+RW/+R
Wobbled Groove Wobbled Land Groove
DVD-RAM
Pit
Track pitch: 0.74 µm Track pitch: 0.74 µm Track pitch: 0.74 µm Track pitch: 0.615 µm
land pre-pits
(LPP) Address
area
"Track pitch is the same, which means high compatibility with DVD players"
Differences in physical construction

The Logical Format
The logical format is essentially the ‘file system’ used when
making a DVD recording. Data on hard discs, floppy discs, CD
ROM, and DVD ROM is recorded as ‘0’ and ‘1’ bit stream data.
This bit stream data is grouped in meaningful collections called
files, allowing the user to perform such operations as reading and
editing of this data by managing it through some type of file
system. The file system will vary depending upon the recording
media and the application. The following is an explanation of
some examples of specified file systems (file formats) used in
DVD.
■ UDF (Universal Disk Format)
This is a universally adopted file format proposed by OSTA*.
UDF is primarily intended for DVD, the specifications were
based on the concept of allowing the exchange of data between
other operating systems, including the common use of data
among various types of optical storage.
◆ UDF Version 1.02
This is a file format used for the DVD Video format. It is used to
enable playback compatibility of re recordable DVD.
◆ UDF Version 2.00
This is used in the DVD Video Recording format, a real time
video recording application format established by the DVD
Forum. It enables random write and read, as well as swapping
processing, so that the media can be used just like a floppy or
MO disc.
*The Optical Storage Technology Association is a group that has
established a worldwide standard file format for optical storage
applications.
■ ISO-9660
This universal file format is used in almost all CD ROM discs.
Its original form was the High Sierra format proposed by Apple,
DEC, Microsoft, Philips, Sony and other companies in 1986.
Later, ISO recognized this as a worldwide standard specification.
■ UDF Bridge
This format provides the access procedure for both ISO 9660
and the UDF Version 1.02, which is a logical format, created for
playback only discs. By adopting the access procedure for ISO
9660, a widely used file format for CD ROM, DVD discs can
even be used on systems, which do not support UDF.
The Application Format
DVD stands for “Digital Versatile Disc,” and as its name implies,
it can be used not only for moving video and sound, but also for
storing digital data. The various application formats have been
given detailed specifications to enable their respective
applications. For example, the DVD Video format was originally
established as an application format to record movies for
playback only. In addition, for music there is also the DVD
Audio format. DVD functions – what you can actually do and
what you can't do – vary greatly according to the application
format. The following is an explanation of three application
formats, which are presently used in DVD recording.
■ DVD-Video format
The DVD Video format was the first application format
established for ROM use in the DVD family. The objective of
establishing this format was to enable a single movie to be
recorded on a disc with high quality images and sound. Thus,
this format was used to enable commercial DVD Video software,
which could be played back on DVD players and other DVD
associated equipment. The MPEG2 digital coding format is used
to compress the video images, thereby achieving a resolution of
approximately 500 horizontal TV lines for a superior quality
image. In addition to linear PCM audio, other formats are also
used, such as the Dolby Digital format, which can offer up to 5.1
channels of surround sound. This enables the playback of
powerful soundtracks with a realistic soundstage and imaging.
Along with high quality images and sound there are a number of
interactive functions possible, for example, multi lingual, multi
story and multi angle features.
While this DVD Video format was originally established for
playback only discs, it is now also used as an application format
for DVD RW and DVD R recording in home use DVD
recorders. In this case, the biggest advantage is high
compatibility with legacy DVD players. This comes as no
surprise since this is the original playback format for DVD
players. However, it should be noted that at the stage during
recording (i.e. the un finalized condition), the data writing
required for playback of the DVD Video format may not be
complete. Therefore, in order to assure playback on other DVD
players, the finalization operation must then be performed.
■ DVD+RW Video format
The DVD+RW Video format, was established by Philips for
recording moving video content. Primarily in the PC application
field, this format is also called the “+VR” format. Essentially, the
DVD+RW format enables playback compatibility between
existing DVD players and DVD drives in personal computers. Its
biggest advantages are real time recording, additional recording
and re recording capabilities. Moreover, finalization, which
records a lead out to indicate the end of the data on the disc, has
been specified as automatic, so it does not need to be performed
by the user. Thanks to this feature, the disc taken directly out of
Chapter 2
Features of Recordable
DVD Formats
RDR GX7 Technical Notes

the recorder can be played back as is on another player, with the
added flexibility of allowing the disc to be put back into the
recorder for additional recording. Furthermore, recorded contents
can easily be edited on the disc itself.
■ DVD Video Recording format
Known simply as the VR format, the DVD Video Recording
format was established by the DVD Forum for recording moving
video content in real time. This format is used on both DVD RW,
plus DVD RAM and together with the random writing capability
of UDF Version 2.00 (explained in the logical format section), it
offers the ability to divide and change the arrangement of
recorded data. Using this capability, it is possible to perform
various editing operations on the recorded contents. Unlike a
conventional disc editing function, which processes the original
recorded data, a virtual editing function, a ‘playlist,’ is provided.
This enables various editing operations without altering the
original recording. In addition, various functions are provided for
recording, for instance, to allow the two languages in a broadcast
multiplex soundtrack to be recorded. It should be noted that
many parts of the recording and editing functions differ from the
intended DVD Video format, so as a result there is no
compatibility with existing DVD players. However, Sony and
other manufacturers have recently released DVD players which
can play back discs recorded in this VR format. From now on,
Sony plans to equip its DVD players with VR format playback
capability. This will improve the overall playback environment
available for the VR format.
Note: The above mentioned functions can be performed in this format.
However, the functions actually provided on each recorder will differ.
Sony's High Quality Blank Disc Products
Sony has already released blank disc media for DVD R,
DVD RW, DVD+R and DVD+RW. The DVD R and
DVD+R discs use a highly sensitive recording dye
material, while the DVD RW and DVD+RW discs are
manufactured with a high performance phase change
recording material, for superior image recording
characteristics and highly stable playback.
Disc Media Products for 2002.
Chapter 2
Features of Recordable
DVD Formats
RDR GX7 Technical Notes
8

Summary of Chapter 2
The following is a graphical summary of the various features and
characteristics explained in this chapter.
Chapter 2
Features of Recordable
DVD Formats
RDR GX7 Technical Notes
9
Format name
Number of recording cycles
Recording material
Capacity (12 cm disc)
Playback laser wavelength
Recording laser wavelength
Lens aperture value (NA value)
Recording tracks
Track pitch
Shortest mark length
Sector placement
Addressing
Reflection ratio
Maximum transmission
rate (speed)*1 *2
Cartridge
Format name
Format name
DVD player playback
compatibility
Finalization
On-disc editing
Simultaneous recording of
bilingual broadcasts in one stream
Copy-once content recording
Ordinary name
Physical format
Logical format
Application format
Features*2
DVD-Video
DVD-ROM
Not possible
Single side Single layer:
4.7 Gbytes
Single side Dual layer:
8.54 Gbytes
645 - 655 nm
0.6
Pit
0.74 µm
0.4 µm
CLV
Pit
Single layer: 45 to 85%
Dual layer: 18 to 30%
11.08 Mbps
None
UDF Bridge
DVD-Video
DVD-R
DVD-R
Write once
(additional rec. possible)
Organic dye
Single side:
4.7 Gbytes
650 nm / 635 nm
650 nm
0.6
Groove
0.74 µm
0.4 µm
CLV
Wobble
Land Pre Pit
45 to 85%
11.08 Mbps (x1)
44.32 Mbps (x4)
None
UDF Bridge
DVD-Video
Good
Required
Low
No
Not available
DVD+R
DVD+R
Write once
(additional rec. possible)
Organic dye
Single side:
4.7 Gbytes
650 - 665 nm
650 - 665 nm
0.65
Groove
0.74 µm
0.4 µm
CLV
Wobble
ADIP (Wobble)
45 to 85%
26.8 Mbps (x2.4)
None
UDF Bridge
DVD+RW Video
Good
Required
Low
No
Not available yet
DVD+RW
DVD+RW
Re-writable
(approx. 1,000 times)
Phase changing
material
Single side:
4.7 Gbytes
650 - 665 nm
650 - 665 nm
0.65
Groove
0.74 µm
0.4 µm
CLV
Wobble
ADIP (Wobble)
18 to 30%
26.8 Mbps (x2.4)
None
UDF Bridge
DVD+RW Video
Good
Not required
(Auto Finalizing)
Mid
No
Not available yet
DVD-RAM
DVD-RAM
Re-writable
(approx. 100,000 times)
Phase changing
material
Single side:
4.7 Gbytes
Double side:
9.4 Gbytes
650 nm
650 nm
0.6
Land & Groove
0.615 µm
0.42 µm
Zoned CLV
PID (Pit)
15 to 25%
22.16 Mbps (x2)
Type 1: Yes
Type 2: No
UDF Ver. 2.00
DVD Video Recording (VR)
Fair
Only machines with
RAM playback
Not required
High
Yes
Yes
UDF Bridge
DVD-Video
Good
Required
Low
No
Not available
UDF Ver. 2.00
DVD Video Recording (VR)
Fair
Only machines with
VR playback
Not required
High
Yes
Yes
DVD-RW
DVD-RW
Re-writable
(approx. 1,000 times)
Phase changing material
Single side: 4.7 Gbytes
650 nm / 635 nm
650 nm / 635 nm
0.6
Groove
0.74 µm
0.4 µm
CLV
Wobble
Land Pre Pit
18 to 30%
11.08 Mbps (x1)
22.16 Mbps (x2)
None
∗1: The maximum data transmission rate will vary depending upon the specific combination of media and hardware.
∗2: High-speed recording is now being considered for each recording format.
Note: The above mentioned functions can be performed in this format. However, the functions actually provided on each recorder will differ.
At present, these are the physical, logical and application combinations mainly used in home-use DVD recorders.

Sony's Format Compatibility Considerations and
“Dual RW Compatible. ”
Among the various DVD formats with their respective features,
which format is best for use in a home AV use DVD recorder? In
this chapter we will explain in detail Sony's format compatibility
considerations, and the compatibility offered by the new RDR
GX7 DVD recorder.
DVD Recorder Format Compatibility at Present
How are the five DVD formats explained in the previous chapter
used in their respective DVD recording machines? Practically all
DVD recorders are compatible with both write once and re
writable formats. In home AV use DVD recorders, for re writing,
each manufacturer has adopted one format from among DVD
RW, DVD+RW and DVD RAM. For a write once format, in
DVD RW or DVD RAM compatible recorders, DVD R has
been selected, while for DVD+RW compatible recorders,
DVD+R has been selected. The same is true for drives in PCs,
though some products are compatible with multiple formats. In
the PC field, DVD+RW is highly evaluated for its random
writing and high speed recording compatibility. Needless to say,
each format has its strong and weak points, so the each format
differs in appeal depending upon the importance placed on each
point.
Compatibility With Over 100 Million
DVD Players Now In Use
On which points should importance be placed? In the
development of its DVD recorder, Sony placed primary
importance on playback compatibility; that is, being able to play
the recorded disc on the greatest number of playback devices,
including DVD players and DVD drives in personal computers.
This compatibility is clearly the most important point of a
recording device. For example, a DVD disc recorded on the
recorder in your living room should be able to be played back on
the DVD player in your bedroom, as well as on players owned
by your friends. You should also be able to record videos on
DVD, which can be sent to distant relatives and played on their
players. This is part of the whole appeal of DVD recording. Just
like the many different types of CD playback equipment in use
around the world, when a CD R or CD RW is recorded, it should
be able to be played anywhere, on any player, because playback
compatibility is the most important point of recording. If a
recorded disc cannot be played back, it is useless as a recording.
Since DVD players were released onto the market, some 100
million have now been sold worldwide. These players have
become popular because they offer high quality images and
superior sound quality, as well as random access and other
convenient operation features unavailable from any other type of
player. What's more, in the future, even more types of devices are
predicted to have DVD playback capability. Consequently, this
will increase the market opportunities for DVD usage and the
overall requirement for DVD hardware compatibility.
The Concept Called Dual RW Compatible
When considering the features and usage for each format, the
most desirable feature of a DVD recorder is to offer a high level
of playback compatibility through a wide range of formats. This
is the idea behind Sony's format compatibility concept of “Dual
RW Compatible.” Home AV use DVD recorders will primarily
be used for re writable discs, so they are compatible with DVD
RW and DVD+RW, which feature a high degree of playback
compatibility. For high playback compatibility, you can record in
DVD Video format on DVD RW discs (in Video mode) or
record on DVD+RW discs. On the other hand, to create discs
with high level disc editing functions, you can record on DVD
RW discs in DVD Video Recording mode. Essentially, Dual RW
Compatible assures high playback compatibility, while also
incorporating functions to meet various needs, so consumers
will feel greater confidence in selecting equipment that is Dual
RW Compatible.
DVD Recorder based on the Dual RW Compatible
concept – Sony RDR-GX7
Sony is proud to announce the release of the new RDR GX7
DVD Recorder. Based on the Dual RW Compatible concept
previously explained, it has been designed for compatibility with
both DVD RW and DVD+RW formats, as well as the DVD R
format for archiving.
Chapter 3
Sony is Dual RW
Compatible
RDR GX7 Technical Notes
10
The Dual RW Compatible logo
DVD Video Recording Format (VR mode)
DVD-Video Format (Video mode)
DVD+RW Video Format
DVD-Video Format
Disc types Application Format
*1 "DVD-RW","DVD+RW",and"DVD-R" are trademarks.
*2 CPRM (Content Protection for Recordable Media) is a coding
technology that protects copyrights for images.
DVD-RW*1
DVD+RW*1
DVD-R*1
Ver. 1.1
Ver. 1.1 with CPRM*2
Ver. 2.0
Recordable discs (Recordable discs are 12 cm only.)

Compatible Playback Formats of
the Sony RDR-GX7 DVD Recorder
Although the RDR GX7 was developed as a DVD recorder, it is
also a DVD player that delivers high image quality and high
fidelity sound, making it ideal for home theater use. What's
more, it can also play back the wide variety of discs indicated in
the chart.
Dual RW Compatible Is Also
Gaining Popularity in the PC Field
Even before the advent of DVD Video Recorders for AV
use, Sony was manufacturing and selling DVD and CD
rewritable drives for use as PC peripherals which are both
DVD RW and DVD+RW compatible. Sony's Dual RW
drives have been very well received by PC users due to
their broad compatibility with various formats, including
DVD RW, DVD+RW, DVD R, DVD+R, DVD ROM
(read only), CD R, CD RW, CD ROM (read only), as well
as their high speed writing capability and support of two
high speed interfaces; i.LINK and USB 2.0 (external
model).
Product released in fall 2002
Chapter 3
Sony is Dual RW
Compatible
RDR GX7 Technical Notes
11
Disc types
*1 "DVD VIDEO","DVD-RW","DVD+R","DVD+RW",and"DVD-R"
are trademarks.
DVD-RW/-Rs, DVD+RWs/+Rs, or CD-RW/-Rs recorded on another
recording device cannot be played on this recorder if they have not
been correctly finalized. Some discs cannot be played due to the
recording quality or physical condition of the disc, or the
characteristics of the recording device and authoring software.
DVD VIDEO*1
DVD-RW*1
DVD+RW*1
DVD-R*1
DVD+R*1
Music CD
CD-R/CD-RW
(Music CD format only)
Ver. 1.0
Ver. 1.1
Ver. 1.1 with CPRM
Playable discs
Playable discs are available in 12 cm and 8 cm sizes. )

12
Introducing the Sony RDR GX7 DVD Recorder
DVD Recorder
RDR GX7

Now you can make your own
DVD recordings at home
In the six years since the release of Sony's first DVD
player, the DVP-S7000, Sony has continued to perfect the
quality and performance of its players. Now Sony is
pleased to announce the introduction of its first DVD
recorder, the RDR-GX7. Compatible with a wide range of
media to ensure playback compatibility with standard DVD
players, this is the world's first Dual RW recorder in a home
deck style. Unlike recording DVDs on a personal computer,
this model can record TV programs with the same ease of
operation as with a conventional video recorder. In
addition, complete recordings made with a DV camcorder,
or only desired scenes, can easily be recorded onto DVD
discs. Of course, the new recorder incorporates high
quality Sony technology for superior image reproduction
and high sound quality. More than simply a time-shift
recorder for TV programs, the Sony RDR-GX7 DVD
Recorder opens up a whole new world of versatility and
enjoyment for the user.
Dual RW Compatible
The RDR-GX7 is the only home DVD recorder* that currently
supports the recording of DVD-RW, DVD+RW and DVD-R
formats, thus eliminating the need for consumers to choose one
format o er another and ensuring the best possible playback
compatibility. This unique format freedom gi es the user more
choice of media and greater compatibility among home
entertainment hardware.
* As of February, 2003.
One-touch DVD recording
from camcorder tapes
The highly ad anced dubbing function of the Sony DVD
recorder simplifies all operations. Through the i.LINK (DV)IN
terminal on the RDR-GX7, comprehensi e control of DV and
Digital 8 camcorders is possible. Tape rewind, playback, DVD
recording start and all other dubbing operations can be
automatically started and stopped with the press of a single
button. In this way, the RDR-GX7 makes it easier than e er to
store those unique moments recorded on your camcorder onto
DVD discs. Of course, only the desired portions of your tapes
can be edited or sa ed, as you wish, ia simple remote control
operation.
Convenient recording and playback functions
When recording a tele ision program on a disc, one scene from
the program is automatically sa ed as a still ideo image, and
can be displayed on the title thumbnail with the title.
Then, during playback, the contents can be displayed, and
desired titles can be selected for iewing. For contents recorded
on DVD-RW discs in VR mode, a " irtual" edit list can be
created, which makes combining, di iding, mo ing titles and
scenes irtually, such an easy operation. In addition, for
rewritable media, unwanted areas on the disc can be efficiently
used again.
High image quality design
from input to output
Before recording, arious circuits operate to clean the ideo
signal to be recorded, and to suit the image characteristics to
match your taste. For recording to disc, a VBR (Variable Bit
Rate) system is employed which assures MPEG encoding with
extremely high image quality. E en during playback, the use of
high quality digital image technology assures performance on par
with top class DVD players.
New GUI for easy operation
A disc format pro ides sophisticated functions with unparalleled
ersatility. Thanks to a new “intelligent” GUI (Graphic User
Interface), this recorder is easy for anyone to operate and control.
Also, careful attention was gi en when designing the GUI image
in order to con ey a feeling of warmth and comfort in the
iewing room.
Newly developed drive improves reliability
The RDR-GX7 incorporates a new high performance Dual Dri e
de eloped and manufactured by Sony. Since it optimizes the
conditions required for the many different types of discs, highly
stable recording with a low error rate has been achie ed. As a
result, it assures the highest possible le el of playback
compatibility, which is a fundamental factor in DVD recording.
Chapter 4-1
Product Summary
RDR-GX7 Technical Notes
13

Record from DV or Digital 8 tape to DVD - i.LINK
makes it simple
Many people have accumulated a lot of unique and treasured
recordings on video tape. The ideal way to archive them is on
DVD. The RDR GX7 has been designed to make it easy to do
just that, with operation simple enough for anyone to master.
Through its i.LINK (DV) IN terminal, the RDR GX7 can
completely control a DV or Digital 8 camcorder. This allows
remarkably simple dubbing operations using the One Touch
Dubbing feature, with other functions also provided that enable
anyone to accomplish high level editing tasks. Using these
editing functions, it is possible to record on any type of DVD
disc compatible with this recorder. By saving your precious
video moments on discs with high playback compatibility, you
can enjoy watching them on other DVD players.
Chapter 4-2
DV Edit
Camcorder recordings are easily archived on DVD
RDR GX7 Technical Notes
14
■ One Touch Dubbing offers
extremely simple operation
When you want to save the entire contents of a video tape onto a
DVD, this mode is the one to choose. All troublesome operation
steps have been eliminated with the One Touch Dubbing feature.
Just connect your DV or Digital 8 camcorder to the RDR GX7
using a single i.LINK cable, which plugs into the i.LINK (DV)
IN terminal on the front panel. Next, press the ONE TOUCH
DUB button to start; you don't even have to turn on the power of
your TV or monitor. The i.LINK connection not only transmits
the video and audio as a digital signal, it also functions as a high
speed serial interface for sending and receiving control data
between the camcorder and the RDR GX7. The RDR GX7 uses
i.LINK to completely control the dubbing operation by
synchronizing its operation with the camcorder – all you have to
do is push the button, and the RDR GX7 starts controlling the
playback of the camcorder. The tape in the camcorder is
automatically rewound to the beginning, and dubbing onto a
DVD disc begins. When the recorded portion of the tape finishes,
recording to the DVD disc stops. The tape is then rewound
automatically, and the power of the RDR GX7 is turned off. Just
as its name implies, One Touch Dubbing is the easiest way to
dub from a video tape to a DVD disc.
i.LINK connection with a camcorder
RDR-GX7
Camcorder Controlling
VR VIDEO
An i.LINK (DV) IN terminal is provided on the front panel.
VR VIDEO
One Touch Dubbing
"One push" is all you have to do!
Absolutely easy dubbing to capture the whole content from a tape into a DVD
Only One Push
Full Automatic Dubbing
DV
Digital8
Play
Auto Rewind
Auto Rewind
Top End
Dubbing
One Touch Dub Button
Rec Start
Push!
Rec Stand-by
Rec Stop
and power off
Stop
RecFinish Preparation
DVD
All formats
How to perform One Touch Dubbing

VR VIDEO
Auto Scene Chaptering
Create chapters automatically adapted to shooting points by the camcorder
*On formats other than - DVD-RW (VR mode),
Auto Chaptering at 6 min. or 15 min. intervals
Rec Start Rec StartRec Stop
Rec StartRec Start Rec StopRec Stop
Rec StartRec Stop
2002/01.Apr
PM02:18 2002/01.Apr PM04:40
2002/01.Apr
PM06:35
2002/04.Jul
PM03:02
2002/03.Jul
AM11:32
Dubbing
-RW
(VR)
Auto chaptering
DVD-RW (VR mode) only
32154
Read the shooting points on DV
(the break points of the recorded
date and time data)
and create chapters automatically.
Although fast random access is a
special ability of disc media, when
dubbing from a camcorder to a DVD
disc, without any marked points in the
content, searching and editing cannot
be easily performed. However, with
the RDR GX7, when the content is
dubbed onto a DVD RW disc in VR
mode, the Auto Scene Chaptering
function puts a chapter mark at the
beginning of each scene* of the DV
recording. Thanks to this function,
after dubbing the DV content onto
disc, it can be played back with
random access capability, and editing
operations can be performed. When
the content is dubbed onto a DVD
RW (Video mode), +RW or R disc,
chapter marks can be automatically
inserted at either 6 minute or 15
minute intervals
Chapter 4-2
DV Edit
RDR GX7 Technical Notes
15
*On each video sector of a tape recorded in the DV or Digital 8 format, various forms of data called “auxiliary data” are recorded
together with the video images. The recorded date and time is one example. The data for the recorded date and time is automatically
recorded together with the image, so at each stop to start point, the recorded date and time data is not continuous. The RDR GX7 takes
this time data gap and records it when dubbing to DVD, and at each point a chapter mark is automatically inserted.
Auto Scene Chaptering

Two high level editing functions
make it easy to create your own DVD
In saving content on DVD, users usually cut out unwanted
sections and edit down the content, but they may later wish to
restore some of the original content. In addition, when creating a
DVD for personal use, the content is usually rearranged to suit
the intended purpose. For this reason, the RDR GX7 has, in
addition to the One Touch Dubbing feature, two different
functions which enable a high level of editing operation and
versatility.
An editing system can be created simply by connecting the
RDR GX7 to a DV or Digital 8 camcorder though a single
i.LINK cable. Desired scenes may be selected and these scenes
can be put in any desired order through the creation of an editing
program. Later, the tape drive of the camcorder can be controlled
by the RDR GX7, with the editing program automatically
creating a compilation DVD for personal use.
These operations can be performed using the remote control
of the RDR GX7, with simple operation and a minimum of
control steps, for remarkably easy editing. Once this editing
program has been created, it can be used again and again to
record any number of DVDs for friends and relatives. Since they
are recorded directly from the tape as a recording source, the
images are clear and crisp. This enables the creation of DVD
discs with high image quality.
Chapter 4-2
DV Edit
RDR GX7 Technical Notes
16
■ Program Edit
This function enables desired scenes from a video tape to be
selected and placed in any order for recording onto DVD to
create your own original recordings. The camcorder is controlled
by the RDR GX7, with each scene – from the IN point
(beginning point of the scene ) to the OUT point (end point of
the scene) – selectable, in succession. Afterwards, slight
adjustments can be made to the IN and OUT points, and the
order of the scenes may be changed. As the video scene list is
being watched, an Edit Program is created. Once the OK has
been given, dubbing can be started, with synchronized operation
between the playback side (camcorder) and the recording side
(RDR GX7) to perform the dubbing automatically. Moreover, up
to 50 scenes (from one point to another) may be set into one
editing program, with a maximum of 20 programs possible, of
which all can be stored in the memory of the RDR GX7. Once a
program has been set, it is possible to record any number of
DVD discs directly from the original video tape source with
automatic operation.
Scene1
in out
in out
in out
Scene2
Scene3
Program Edit
Record directly only necessary scenes from a tape into a disc as you choose
i.LINK Control
AV Signal
2. Create Edit Program before recording
1. Select the scenes
DV (D8)
Edit Program
Scene3
Scene2
Scene1
Master
tape VR VIDEO
3. Start Dubbing
Full Automatic Dubbing
by Edit Program
RDR-GX7
How to perform Program Edit

■ Advanced Program Edit
Compared to the Program Edit function, in which the tape is
watched and desired scenes are selected, the Advanced Program
Edit function copies the entire tape onto a DVD disc. Scenes are
selected and edited on the disc itself, taking full advantage of the
merits of the disc format. First, the tape is dubbed “as is” onto a
DVD RW in VR mode. In this process, Auto Scene Chaptering
(see column) is performed and chapters are automatically
created. In addition, since Program Dubbing can take each
selected scene and automatically create a scene list based on
particular chapters, unwanted scenes may be deleted and the
order of scenes can be changed, enabling the creation of a high
level edit program which can also be saved. Then, a new disc can
be inserted into the RDR GX7 and this Edit Program data can be
copied onto it to enable the RDR GX7 to create a copy of the
same content onto this disc, directly from the original tape, by
controlling the camcorder as the recording source. For all discs
compatible with the RDR GX7, it is possible to make any
number of disc copies containing the high quality image directly
from the tape.
Of course, just as with Program Edit where each scene is
selected, selection is possible at the IN and OUT points.
Importantly, since this is a disc, chapter selection can be made
using high speed cueing, thus reducing the load on the tape
(which serves as the master) during editing processes.
While this type of editing is also possible on an HDD/DVD
Combo Recorder, there are many cases where encoding and
decoding operations are necessary when accessing the program
material. However, with Advanced Program Edit, since the
dubbing comes directly from the original video tape,
deterioration in image quality is held to the absolute minimum,
which presents a distinct advantage over editing on an
HDD/DVD Combo Recorder.
Chapter 4-2
DV Edit
RDR GX7 Technical Notes
1
Advanced Program Edit
- Edit freely with Non-linear Editing
- Make as many copies of the edited disc as you like
- Maintain picture quality by dubbing directly from DV
Control
AV Signal
Auto Scene
Chaptering
2. Create Edit Program on the Disc.
Copy on any format
1. Whole dubbing DVD-RW
(VR mode) Edit Program
Scene1
Scene2
Scene3
35
32154
1
351
VR VIDEO
3. Change Disc and Start Dubbing
Fully Automatic Dubbing
by Edit Program
How to perform Advanced Program Edit

Easy DVD recording
When discs recorded using the RDR GX7 are played back, the
contents of the disc are displayed, facilitating rapid search for a
particular segment. Previously, making an edited version of a
video recording required two video decks to record segments
onto a new tape, in a time consuming process. But with the
RDR GX7, it is possible to edit out unwanted portions on a disc
and rearrange the playback order. This feature makes it possible
to save not only video segments you have shot with a camcorder,
but also television programs for time shift viewing, or for storing
on a disc. Compared with conventional video decks, the RDR
GX7 offers far greater versatility and convenience.
■ Title List by GUI
When DVD software titles are played back on a DVD player, the
menu is displayed on the screen, allowing the user to select the
desired content for playback. This convenient feature is made
possible because a menu area is provided on a certain portion of
the disc. In the RDR GX7, a Title List function is provided, and
via operation of a specific on screen menu in the GUI, the
contents recorded on the disc are displayed. By simply pressing
the Title List button on the remote control, the list is shown. Up
to eight titles are displayed on the menu at once in either clear,
easy to read text only, or with the addition of thumbnail images
for greater information detail. Switching between these two types
of displays is possible using the Zoom +/– button. In addition,
since program contents can be sorted by recording date and time,
title number or title name, finding a desired title is quick and
easy. When a desired title is selected from the Title List,
playback, editing, or other operations can be smoothly
performed. When the data is to be corrected or changed, the title
name can be manually input. This makes it more convenient to
manage the recorded titles, to facilitate searching for a specific
title in the Title List for playback, or to display the title name for
confirmation during playback.
Editing on disc capability
Editing on the disc is a major feature of rewritable DVD discs,
and this is possible with the RDR GX7. In particular, DVD RW
(VR mode) recordings offer a high degree of editing flexibility.
There are two ways of editing DVDs. One is original editing on
the disc itself, making changes to both the images and sound
actually on the disc. Another way is to leave the images and
sound data on the disc without making changes, and edit only the
Playlist to rearrange the playback order of the content.
■ Original editing
In this type of editing, changes are made to images and sound
actually recorded on the disc. With rewritable media, unwanted
portions can be erased and these become blank areas, where
different images and sound can be subsequently recorded to
enable more efficient use of disc capacity.
Original editing functions
Original editing is possible with DVD RW (VR mode), RW
(Video mode), +RW and –R* discs.
Labeling a title (title name): This enables a title to be manually
input and is performed by using a keyboard on the screen. This
title name can also be shown by other DVD players, which can
display a DVD menu (except for DVD RW VR mode).
Protecting a title (protect): Unlike erasure protect for an entire
tape, this feature allows you to protect a specific title from being
inadvertently erased.
Erasing a title (erase)*: This is used to select a title, and erase
its contents.
Erasing a section of a title (A-B erase): This allows you to
erase the content between two specified points within a title. This
function can only be used with DVD RW (VR mode).
*With write once DVD R discs, the erased areas cannot be recorded overr
again.
Chapter 4-3
Features
RDR GX7's convenient
recording and playback features
RDR GX7 Technical Notes
18
Title List GUI screen (Normal)
Title List GUI screen (Zoom)
Title List –
on-screen display of content recorded on the DVD

■ Playlist editing
With this type of editing, the recorded images and sound are not
rewritten, but rather a new Playlist is created and the order of
playback is changed. The actual video and sound are not altered
and editing is only performed “virtually,” so if errors are made in
this editing process, it can be performed again from the original
material as many times as necessary to achieve the desired result.
The Playlist on a disc can hold up to 99 titles, so it is possible to
alter the same title in many different ways, or make a new title
composed of desired scenes from any number of titles.
Playlist editing functions
In addition to the original editing functions, the following
functions are possible (except the protect function).
Creating a Playlist title from other titles: This is the menu
used to make a Playlist.
Moving a Playlist title (move): This enables the Playlist title
playback order to be changed.
Dividing a Playlist title (divide): This enables a single Playlist
title to be divided into two titles.
Combining multiple Playlist titles (combine): This enables
several Playlists to be combined into a single Playlist title.
These Playlist editing functions can only be used with DVD RW
(VR mode).
Chapter 4-3
Features
RDR GX7 Technical Notes
19
Disc Edit - Original
Original data itself is edited
DVD-RW
(VR mode)
Edit
Original
data
Original
data
Title 1
"Football game" Title 2 "Football semi final" Title 3 "Football Final"
Title 1
"Football semi final" Title 2 "Football Final"
Delete
unnecessary
Scenes
Delete
whole title
1212 3
123 1 2 3
123
123 1 2 3
1 2
How to perform Original editing
Disc Edit - Playlist
Original data itself is not edited
DVD-RW
(VR mode)
Playlist
12 1 231234
1
12 1231234
21231234
You can enjoy editing contents
without changing the original data.
Pick-up Only
necessary scenes
...up to 99 titles
you can create up to 99 virtual titleson 1 disc
Title 1
"Memorable Goal Scenes" Title 2 "Favourite Football Player" Title 3 "Final Highlights"
Original
data
Original
data
Title 1
"Football game" Title 2 "Football semi final" Title 3 "Football Final"
Title 1
"Football game" Title 2 "Football semi final" Title 3 "Football Final"
How to perform Playlist editing

The RDR GX7 offers the recording
convenience provided by the disc
format. At present, there are two basic
types of home AV use DVD recorders
in terms of recording operation: tape
model recording and disc model
recording.
Tape model recording operates in
the same way as an ordinary VCR;
when the recording button is pressed,
recording begins from the current
position on the tape and continues
recording the contents in a linear
fashion, even if there is content already
recorded, until the stop button is
pressed. For this reason, there is
concern about accidentally recording
over important content.
Disc model recording, on the other
hand, automatically finds blank areas
on the disc and records on them. The
RDR GX7 performs disc model
recording in all formats, so there is no
concern about accidental erasure of
previously recorded content.
In addition, while the type of
recording in each format differs
according to its respective
specification, the RDR GX7 has been
designed to perform recording in a
manner that efficiently uses blank
space on the disc in all formats.
First, with DVD RW in VR mode,
the characteristics of disc recording are
taken full advantage of, while all blank
areas on the disc are efficiently used.
When a single disc is used, during
editing, unwanted titles can be erased,
and unwanted parts within titles can be
erased, leaving blank areas here and
there on the disc. Then, DVD RW VR
mode enables those separate blank
areas to be recorded again, and played
back as a single title.
For high playback compatibility
with DVD playback equipment,
recording in DVD Video format
(DVD RW Video mode / DVD+RW /
DVD R) can be performed, though
editing operations like with VR mode
are not possible. Since DVD R has
been designed primarily for playback
compatibility, and cannot be re
recorded, new recording can only be
performed after recorded titles. Most
DVD recorders, even with DVD RW
Video mode recording, perform
recording in the same way as with
DVD R. Therefore, even though DVD
RW is a disc that can be re recorded,
apart from the last portion on the disc,
even if previously recorded sections
are erased there is no extra capacity
for new recording. However, the RDR
GX7, during DVD RW Video mode
recording, enables new recording to be
performed on the largest blank area on
the disc, regardless of its location on
the disc, and this enables more
efficient use of disc capacity. In
addition, even with re writable
DVD+RW recording, recording is
performed in the same way as DVD
RW Video mode, so there is no
concern about accidental data erasure,
while disc capacity is used more
efficiently.
Chapter 4-3
Features
RDR GX7 Technical Notes
20
TAPE MODEL
DISC MODEL
Recording Types
Type 1
Type 2
Type 3
Record from inner blank areas
(non-overwriting)
Record on only outer blank area
Record only on largest blank area
(non-overwriting)
blank area
New Recording
blank area
blank area
blank area
blank area
Start Stop
Start Stop
Start Stop
-RW
-RW
-R
+RW
VR
DVD-Video
Compatible
DVD-Video
Compatible
(DVD-RW)
(DVD-R)
(DVD-RW/+RW)
12 554
Start Stop
12 5blank4
12
3
blank4
12 54
12 3 54
mistaken
over-write
unwanted content
Disc model recording