Re: arsclist CD markers

[Mike Richter <mrichter@xxxxxxx>]

At 01:16 PM 12/10/2002 -0500, Andy  Lanset wrote:
> I know there has been some previous discussion on this - but if folks could
> bring me up to date on their thoughts, I would be most appreciative.
>
> For archival purposes I do not write on the CDs with any kind of marker.
>
> However, producers here would go nuts if they couldn't label their
> production CDs with some kind of marker.  Is one better than another?  Water
> soluable inks perhaps?
>
> One producer/reporter presented me with a packet of Staedtler markers made
> in Germany.
> The packet says, "Safe for labeling CD and DVD discs." The markers even come
> with a free blank CD. The packet also says - "smudge-proof and waterproof
> and low odor."

Jerry Hartke ( http://www.mscience.com/ ) has found noticeable effect 
whenever any marker is used on the working surface of a disc. He recommends 
marking only around the central hole in the area which is not used for burning.

Realists among us prefere water-based inks as in the Staedtler and TDK 
markers. Solvents have been known to penetrate the lacquer coating and 
destroy the metallizing over time. Unfortunately, there are also cases 
where silk-screen inks themselves have done the damage and I know of no 
studies on which inks are safe.

Where that is an issue for me, I turn to the TDK "CD Writer" pens available 
in a variety of colors.


Mike
mrichter@xxxxxxx
http://www.mrichter.com/


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