Re: [ARSCLIST] CD-ROM marking pens

[Mike Richter <mrichter@xxxxxxx>]

Tom wrote:

> However, for personal, casual, use I use a sharpie all the time and never
> have experienced any problems. Once I wrote on the recorded, burned, side by
> mistake and cleaned it off with isopropyl alcohol. It came right off and
> I've been listening to that disc for a couple of years with no problem.

The durability of the lower, polycarbonate surface is not in question. 
The issue is with the acrylic lacquer on the top surface. Most discs 
have an overcoating of more durable plastic above the lacquer; they are 
reasonably resistant to the solvents and may be written with a Sharpie 
without damage. Those without the overcoating are vulnerable and have 
been reported to have failed over time.

My own policy is that where I have assurance of an overcoating - 
typically, printing on the top or an obvious layer above the lacquer - I 
grab a Sharpie and have little fear (and no problems in some thousands 
written this way). Where I'm uncertain - espeically when a moire pattern 
is visible - I use a water-based marker with India ink.

Writing in the clear center area is safe, of course, but my printing is 
hard enough to read in full size.

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