CSS Encryption Explained for DVD Manufacturing

One of the biggest mysteries that we have to explain to many of our new clients is how to get CSS(content scramble system) encryption applied to a DVD project.

When a client wants to have copy protection on a DVD that we manufacture, the easiest way to have that done is to have CSS encryption applied to their DVD.  However, this process is more complex than most understand, and I am hoping to dispel most of the misconceptions that are made when trying to get CSS applied to your DVD master.

Misconception 1: AUTHORING – During authoring you will have to have the CSS Encryption Flag set.  One of the biggest mistakes DVD Authorers make is that they check the CSS Flag and assume that copy protection will be applied to the DVD.  This is only the case if the master that is being output is either a DLT master, or a DDP master.  If you intend to apply CSS to a master that is a playable DVDR, the CSS flag will not be set.  In short, this means that if you do not have access to a DLT drive or cannot output a DDP master, your DVD will not be encrypted.

Misconception 2:  The actual CSS scrambling is done at the factory.  When a DLT or DDP master coming in with the CSS check flag set, during glass mastering, the replicator applies the CSS algorithm to the DVD project.  Another common misunderstanding is that since CSS is applied at the factory, many clients want to turn in a playable DVD-R master without CSS flag set and ask if we can apply the CSS at that point.  This is not technologically possible.  The master must have the CSS Flag set for us to apply it at glass mastering.  We can take your playable DVDR master and remaster to DDP to apply the CSS, but this is an extra cost of $300-$450 depending on the master DVD-5 or DVD-9.

Misconception 3: Replicators – Many replicators, especially those overseas do not pay the CSS royalty fees for CSS, and therefore do not have the technology to apply the CSS encryption to your DVD project.  A good way to find out if your replicator is offering legitimate CSS encryption is to ask them if they pay the CSS royalty and that you want an Eclipse report showing that CSS is verified on the master.  If you want CSS, you may have to stick with a domestic manufacturer in the US.  Most US DVD manufacturers offer CSS, however, some of the smaller outfits may not.

In short, if you want CSS applied to your DVD, you need to do your homework,……get linked up with a good credible replicator who can help you through these steps to make sure you get the copy protection you want on your DVD project.

If you have more questions regarding CSS Encryption please give us a call at 888-889-2926, call me direct, ask for Brian or you can email me at briangfisher@dvdduplication.net.