To Repair or Not to Repair
By James C. Scholtz — 5/15/2004
Excerpted from the Special Report - Audio Video 2004

A comparison of disc repair machines for libraries

“RTI...the best overall choice”

OPERATION: Long known for manufacturing high-quality, industrial-grade video inspection and repair units to precise tolerances, RTI has entered the disc-cleaning industry with a unique unit.

The Eco-Junior is a four-stage, low-water-usage unit that positions the CD vertically. The CD is held in place with a quick connect system. Cleaning is precisely controlled by microprocessors that regulate surface pressure, disc rotation speed, and direction on a powered sanding spindle.

The machine determines the length of the process, which can last up to three minutes. Individual color-coded sanding and buffing discs are easily changed manually and attached with an innovative magnetic connector system.

RTI claims the Eco-Junior is the only unit on the market that repairs a disc absolutely flat after ten repairs and restores CDs to new, pristine condition. Innovations in the Eco-Junior include a sanding unit that is precisely controlled to execute counter rotation so as to eliminate buff marks. The machine does require a container for waste water; distilled water is recommended.

COSTS: The ongoing cost of sanding and polishing discs is fairly high, and the unit's precise tolerances may demand maintenance. However, RTI backs its products with a one-year warranty and a high degree of professionalism in service and repair.

RTI offers discounted packages for the Eco-Junior when purchased together with the DiscChek inspection machine ($2,945). The Eco-Senior, a totally automatic four-stage, wet-process machine, will debut in the next few months with a price of $6500.

CONCLUSIONS: This unit is extremely durable, yet has a relatively small footprint. Its precision controls consistently turn out a disc in top condition. Eco-Junior is the best overall choice for most libraries looking for a more-expensive, wet-method machine.