XTC ADDIK wrote:
i had to do it once, but i had sucess also. One thing to remember, don't be lazy and not use a string to dip it in and out quickly. i used a long rubberband and it melted to the disk.
who found this out, Miguivver? and why does it work? it'll be on mythbusters eventually, you know.
*Dropping Science*
I had posted this in the original OXM forums and had a long drawn out explaination on how and why this works. Here goes again...
• Why does the disc sometimes not work like it should:
What happens is not so much due to the manufacturing process, but due to the exposure of condensation within the plastic wrapped subscription (air temp change from sealed plastic bag) and handling during shipments. The optical formats (all discs) have a thin layer of plastic which expands and contracts with temperature. It is made this way to protect the readable surface, and it allows for expansion in your hot dvd drives when spinning at faster RPMs. Because the disc is housed in a paper sleeve now, it actually is more protected than that of the cardboard sleeve as it does not slide out and does not let dust, debris, or microparticles to attach to the readable surface. Paper also shields any condensation from the bag wrap that is used to protect the magazine and disc during distribution.
• Why it works:
Boiling works because it forces the small elastomeric film to expand and fix any minor warpage from shipping, and loosens the particles or debris from the surface in the hot water. It is just like washing sand off your hands under warm water. This is why a thumbprint (surfacants and oils that transfer from your hands) can cause more problems than minor surface scratches on the discs too. The lazer usually can read through a field of depth with scratches, but a smudge is more problematic because it disrupts the penetration of the plastic layer. This is why on all your electronic devices with disc drives tell you to never touch the lazer lens; because of the same reasoning.
The best method on handling the disc during boiling or running under hot water is to use a wooden handled spoon or serving utensil. Simply slide the disc center over the handle face up for better handling. Boil for 10 seconds or run under hot water for 20 seconds. Carefully take the disc back off the handle onto a lint free towel laying it face up. Gently pad dry the surface from the center outward to prevent scratching the surface. Let the disc set and cool so that the surface of the disc can contract before using. This method has worked since the optical format came out btw, so game discs aren't the only thing this works for (same applies for CD's and DVD's). MythBusters, riiiight. Lol.
MacGyver out.
