The DVD-RAM format was designed in response to demand for a reliable and rewriteable form of removable storage. Originally, DVD-RAM discs were capable of storing 2.6 GB of data. However, the standard was revised in October of 1999, increasing the capacity of a DVD-RAM disc to 4.7 GB. Physically smaller DVD-RAM discs also exist with a capacity of 1.46 GB, but they are uncommon.
DVD-RAM is considered a highly reliable format, as the discs use aspects of both phase change and magneto-optical technologies and have built-in error control. However, because of these features, DVD-RAM discs are not supported by the majority of DVD players or writers.
DVD-RAM is approved by the DVD Forum.
