DVD Demystified

6
ing these information streams. And there will always be a need to archive
information while keeping it quickly accessible. DVD and future generations
of DVD fit the bill.
Some people believe that DVD heralds the complete convergence of computers
and entertainment media. They feel that a technology such as DVD
that works as well in the family room as in the office is another reason that
the TV and the computer will merge into one. Perhaps. Or perhaps the computer
will always be a separate entity with a separate purpose. How many
people want to write in a word processor or work on a spreadsheet while sitting
on the couch in front of the TV with a cordless keyboard on their lap—
especially if the kids want to watch Animaniacs or play Ultra Mario
instead? Whatever the case, it is inevitable that consumer electronics will
gain more of the capabilities of computers, and computers will assimilate
more of the features of televisions and stereo systems. The line is blurring,
and DVD is rubbing a very big eraser across it. 4
Who Needs to Know About DVD?
The number of people who are feeling or will feel the effect of DVD is truly
astonishing. A large part of this astonished multitude requires a working
knowledge of DVD, including its capabilities, strengths, and limitations.
This book provides most of this knowledge.
DVD will affect a remarkably diverse range of fields. A few are illustrated
in the following pages.
Movies
TEAMFLY
Chapter 1
DVD has significantly raised the quality and enjoyability of home entertainment.
According to the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA), there
were over 19 million American homes with a home theater 5 system by the
end of 1999. As DVD player prices drop, the players are becoming increasingly
attractive as the central component of home theater systems and as
4In this age of digital art, it is probably more appropriate to say that DVD is rubbing a very large
smudge tool across the line.
5 CEA defines a home theater system as a 25-inch or larger TV, hi-fi VCR or laserdisc player or
DVD player, and a surround sound system with at least four speakers.