DVD +/-/ROM??? What is this? Need help quick!

[audiobahn1000]

My computer is crashing around me as I speak. So I am going to get a external USB DVD writer tonight for my laptop to back up my files.

What is the difference between - and + DVD's? Also how to you tell if a DVD is double sided?

I am planing on burning two different things using my DVD writer. The first is video DVD's and the second is computer data. The disc for the data writing must be a DVD-RW and preferably double sided.

Knowing that what types of DVD's do I need? Also with a double sided DVD, do I have to flip the DVD for the burner to burn the other side?

Also how do I know what DVD's are compatable with my writer?

 

[computerhakk]

For what you need. You will need a Dual Layer DVD burner compatible with Dual Layer DVD discs also.

Difference in - and +
http://www.sharpened.net/helpcenter/answer.php?129

Basically the same.. - is more supported than +

Double sided, it'll be 8.5gb instead of 4.7gb

And you dont need to flip it over. I remembered reading that there are two layers.. The first data is burned on a sorta transparent top layer.. then when its full, the lense will refocuse and burn on the bottom second layer.. anyone correct me if I am wrong because I dont really keep up with this.

And any type of dual layer should work with a dual layer dvd

 

[Burgerbob]

You are right about the dual layer, but im not sure thats what hes talking about, there are dual sided DVDs, itll just be two in one.