I think DVDs and CDs have gotten a bad reputation for backup because of inadvertent abuse. I've got cheap discs that I purchased and burned many years ago that are in perfect condition, while discs off the same spindle that I burnt for some family members had catastrophically failed within a couple of years. It doesn't take much effort to protect your optical discs, but it does take some.
I think the most important thing to remember is that optical media is made possible because of a thin layer of organic dye that is smashed between two plastic discs. While this dye is significantly more advanced than the pigments Leonardo used to paint the Mona Lisa, they still share one very common trait - exposure to light slowly degrades it. Ultra-Violet light in particular exacerbates the aging process. How do you protect your discs from UV light?
- Never leave a disc in the sun, this can destroy even the best of discs in a matter of weeks. Short term exposure can also warp discs.
- Always store your discs with the data side down so the label can absorb the majority of light.
- Place your discs in a case with a opaque bottom.
- Store in a cool area that receives as little light as possible or in a opaque container.
Because I handle them by their edges and always lift and lower my discs into the drive tray and case, scratches has never been a problem for me - with the exception of discs I've lent. Sliding a disc into the case or tray will cause scratches.
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Originally Posted by rediguana
Another thing I'd suggest with respect to laptops, if you can, get them a stand to sit on so that air can flow over and under them. Whilst not proven, I've had a number of hard drive failures in laptops, and I'm fairly convinced that these were caused by the laptop running hot on a flat desk with inadequate ventilation. The additional heat buildup in the laptop dries out the circuit boards, and could eventually lead to failure.
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They make laptop coolers that sell for anywhere from $20-$30 on up. These are a thin case you place your laptop on that contains fan[s] to circulate air under it, metal coolers also act as a giant heat sink. Most also have a USB hub and some features drawers for storing small items. Given the size of a stand, coolers are more convenient when traveling, plus active cooling is also far more effective.
One word of caution though, unless your plugged in they will drain your battery quicker.