Markers
Markers are the traditional method of labelling disks and are simple, crude and effective. Makers of printers and labels routinely
make fun of markers and those who use them but many years of experience by millions of users didn't show any problems with data loss
due to the use of markers, as long as disks are marked on the "label" side.
Though standard ink has been shown to be harmless there were some early detractors who suggested the sharper point of "laundry"
makers might etch the top layer. This is really strange considering that the special "CD" markers now sold almost everywhere have
points considerably sharper than a standard laundry marker! Examinations of CDs marked 9 years ago fail to show any lost data.
Stick on Labels
Usually this involves the use of custom label kits and special software, but some have used sheets of label paper and cut out the
labels themselves, others have actually printed labels on ordinary paper and then glued it on. Those last two methods seem to be far
more trouble than their worth!
A full color, expertly attached label lends a "professional" look to disks and may cover up any "branding" printed by the
manufacturer.
Labels can provide a much needed extra layer of protection on the top of the disk and some with "gold" backing can even improve the
reflective characteristics of the disk. Some early detractors suggested that a slightly off center label could cause rotational
imbalance in a rapidly spinning disk. Some illadvised experiments with coins seemed to allay those fears.
Adhesive labels do have their downside, however
If you look at the cost of a labelling kit or even refills and do some quick calculation you may find the labels cost almost as much
or even more than the disks themselves!
There are quality issues that come up as well. For example, it is quite common for some of the original color or printing to show
past the edge of the label and some of the more translucent labels may allow the "branding" to show through the label itself!
The alignment of the labels within the printer is somewhat critical to avoid expensive misprints and even with special applicators
the application of labels can be a little tricky. Obviously you cannot move a label once it is applied, so you better get it right
the first time!
Pictures printed on labels look much cruder than the same pictures printed on high quality paper, though writing and computer
graphics usually look pretty good.
Recently concerns have been raised about how adhesive labels may impact the long term archival stability of disks, we'll discuss that
in more detail later. Another concern is that a label may deteriorate with time and that pieces could come off inside the reader.
Direct methods
Aside from the markers already mentioned, there are several ways to label the disk's surface directly, wthout the need for an
adhesive label. Depnding on the method chosen, special disks may or may not be required.
Some exciting developments have come about in recent years. Wouldn't it be cool, for example, if the writer
itself could label the disk?
READ ON!
