Backing up 1 dual layer to 2 single layers?

[John Bertram]

I've searched the Help files and this forum, thinking one or both must have a simple answer to what I assume is a very basic question (but with no luck so far):

 

I need to back up some DVD ROMs using the SuperDrive in my G5 PowerMac. Some of the DVDs are less than 4.3 GB, so no problem just copying them to a blank DVD-R.

 

But some are double layer, with up to 5 or 6 GB. So what's the best way to use Toast to backup those disks onto regular single-layer DVD-Rs?

 

- Do I just drag individual folders into two arbitrary groups, and burn two separate disks?

- Do I make a disc image first, and get Toast to split that one file onto two disks?

- Or is there some way to tell Toast 8 to just copy layer 1 onto one disk, and layer 2 onto a second?

 

I just assumed the app itself would immediately detect the total disc size of the original, the number of layers, and the capabilities of the installed hardware when I was in Copy mode, and then guide me through whatever options were appropriate for that particular software/hardware mix? Was I being overly optimistic, or am I just missing some blindingly obvious workflow?

 

Thanks for any guidance here.

 

John Bertram

Toronto

[John Bertram]

More good advice. Thanks again.

[tsantee]

I'm presuming these are data DVDs and not video DVDs.

 

If you only have one disc drive I would select the DL disc you want to back up in the Toast Copy window and choose Save as Disc Image from the File menu. When that is finished eject the DL original and mount the .toast file that was saved. You can do this with multiple discs if you like.

 

Next, switch to the Data window and choose either Mac Only or Mac & PC as the format. Be sure to have disc spanning turned on. Now add the contents from the mounted disc images (not the image file itself) to the Data window. Toast will automatically span the content across multiple single-layer discs and create a directory file to help you find where any of the backed up files are located.

[John Bertram]

I'm presuming these are data DVDs and not video DVDs.

That is correct, and thanks very much for a helpful and informative reply.

 

As luck would have it, it turns out that for entirely unrelated reasons we'll soon be getting an Intel iMac in the house, one of the models which can burn dual layer DVDs. So, even though the media is pricier per GB of storage, I think I'll go that route just to keep the back up discs "in sync" with their original counterparts.

 

We'll be getting the machine in about a week. Any hidden "gotcha's" I should be aware of in terms of different dual layer brands, or the process of using Toast to copy dual layer to dual layer?

[tsantee]

Any hidden "gotcha's" I should be aware of in terms of different dual layer brands, or the process of using Toast to copy dual layer to dual layer?

The Verbatim DVD+R DL media appear to be the most reliable. Avoid Memorex. Also, I always create a disc image first before burning to DL discs because it seems to reduce the chance of a failed burn. Choose the Copy window and select Save as Disc Image. Then burn that to the new DVD using the Image File setting in the Copy window.