dvd+rw-mediainfo

dvd+rw-mediainfo [device]

dvd+rw-mediainfo is a lightweight utility from the dvd+rw-tools package designed to query and print comprehensive information about inserted DVD+RW, DVD+R, DVD+R DL (Double Layer), and DVD-RW media in Linux optical drives. It uses the ATAPI MMC (MultiMedia Commands) protocol to read disc properties directly from the drive, including manufacturer details, disc ID, supported speeds (e.g., 4.7x16x16), current profile, hardware sectoring status, write capacities for sequential and random recording, used/free space in MB and sectors, number of sessions/layers, blanking status, and formatting requirements.

For blank unformatted media, it clearly indicates the need for formatting via tools like dvd+rw-format. The output is structured and human-readable, aiding DVD burning workflows with tools like growisofs or k3b. It helps diagnose media issues, verify compatibility, and check remaining capacity before data burns.

Primarily for DVD formats; does not support CDs, Blu-ray, or DVD-RAM. Device access requires read permissions (often via cdrom group). Run without arguments to use default /dev/dvd. Essential for Linux users handling recordable DVDs in eras of physical media.

Media must be inserted; supports only DVD+RW/+R/+R DL/-RW. Some drives may report incomplete info. Requires drive permissions (no root typically needed). Defaults to /dev/dvd; specify /dev/sr0 etc. for accuracy.

dvd+rw-mediainfo /dev/sr0
dvd+rw-mediainfo (uses default device)

/dev/sr0: 'PRINCO 010' 4.0x8x8
Current profile: DVD+R DL
Disc size: 20880 blocks (45x)
State: complete empty DL jumped-over
Native capacity: 20880 MB (100% free)

Part of dvd+rw-tools by Andy Polyakov, developed ~2001-2003 for Linux DVD+RW pioneer support amid Windows dominance. Stable since kernel 2.4/2.6 eras; maintained minimally for legacy media.

dvd+rw-format(1), dvd+rw-booktype(1), growisofs(1), dvdbackup(1)