1.2 What are the features of DVD-Video?
Description
This article is from the DVD Formats FAQ, by jtfrog@usa.net (Jim Taylor) with numerous contributions by others.
1.2 What are the features of DVD-Video?
* Over 2 hours of high-quality digital video (over 8 on a double-sided,
dual-layer disc).
* Support for widescreen movies on standard or widescreen TVs (4:3 and
16:9 aspect ratios).
* Up to 8 tracks of digital audio (for multiple languages, DVS, etc.),
each with as many as 8 channels.
* Up to 32 subtitle/karaoke tracks.
* Automatic "seamless" branching of video (for multiple story lines or
ratings on one disc).
* Up to 9 camera angles (different viewpoints can be selected during
playback).
* Menus and simple interactive features (for games, quizzes, etc.).
* Multilingual identifying text for title name, album name, song name,
cast, crew, etc.
* Instant rewind and fast forward (no "be kind, rewind" stickers and
threats on rental discs)
* Instant search to title, chapter, music track, and timecode.
* Durable (no wear from playing, only from physical damage).
* Not susceptible to magnetic fields. Resistant to heat.
* Compact size (easy to handle, store, and ship; players can be
portable; replication is cheaper).
* Noncomedogenic.
Note: Most discs do not contain all features (multiple audio/subtitle
tracks, seamless branching, parental control, etc.), as each feature must
be specially authored. Some discs may not allow searching or skipping.
Most players support a standard set of features:
* Language choice (for automatic selection of video scenes, audio
tracks, subtitle tracks, and menus).*
* Special effects playback: freeze, step, slow, fast, and scan (no
reverse play or reverse step).
* Parental lock (for denying playback of discs or scenes with
objectionable material).*
* Programmability (playback of selected sections in a desired sequence).
* Random play and repeat play.
* Digital audio output (PCM stereo and Dolby Digital).
* Compatibility with audio CDs.
* Must be supported by additional content on the disc.
Some players include additional features:
* Component (YUV or RGB) video output for higher-quality picture.
* Progressive-scan component (YUV or RGB) output for highest-quality
analog picture.
* Six-channel analog output from internal audio decoder.
* Recognition and output of DTS Digital Surround audio tracks.
* Compatibility with Video CDs.
* Compatibility with laserdiscs and CDVs.
* Ability to play Divx discs.
* Reverse single frame stepping.
* RF output (for TVs with no direct video input).
* Multilingual on-screen display.
* Digital zoom (2x or 4x enlargement of a section of the picture). This
is a player feature, not a DVD disc feature.
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