Project Resources
Review artwork guidelines, file requirements, and common questions before you place an order or while your project is in progress.
Artwork Specifications
Prepare artwork at final size, use production-ready files, and ask Nordex for the correct template or dieline before you begin.
General file requirements
- Use press-ready PDF, TIFF, or layered PSD files
- Build artwork at final size with 300 DPI minimum resolution
- Use CMYK color mode for print files
- Include bleed where Nordex's artwork guide calls for it
- Embed fonts or convert them to outlines
- Keep critical logos and text inside safe zones
Format reference
| Component | Finished Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| CD disc face | 117 mm diameter | Clear hub area: 37 mm diameter |
| DVD disc face | 117 mm diameter | Clear hub area: 48 mm diameter |
| Jewel case front insert | 120 x 115 mm | Full bleed + tray overlay |
| Jewel case rear insert | 150 x 115 mm | Includes spine areas |
| DVD keepcase wrap | 273 x 184 mm | Includes spine |
| Digipak (4-panel) | Ask Nordex for exact dieline | Panel layout varies by format and packaging style |
What To Have Ready
A little preparation helps us guide you more effectively and quote your project more accurately. Before you reach out, it helps to gather a few key details about your media, artwork, timeline, and delivery needs so we can recommend the right next step with less back and forth.
Project Scope
Start with the basics of what you need produced. That may include replicated or duplicated discs, packaged media, preloaded USBs, blank stock, or transfer deliverables. If you are still comparing formats, we can help you narrow down the right option.
Artwork and Content
Gather any master content, artwork files, dielines, layout guides, or brand assets you already have available. Even if everything is not finalized, having working files and notes ready helps us review the project more accurately and identify anything that may need attention before production.
Timing and Delivery
Be ready to share your target timeline, quantity, shipping destination, and any fulfillment or distribution requirements tied to the project. These details can affect the production path, packaging recommendations, and the quote itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Start with Why Choose Nordex, or choose the category that best fits your question. The answers below bring together practical guidance on artwork, templates, blank media, printing, duplication, manufacturing, USB drives, and video transfer.
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Nordex brings long-running experience across disc production, custom USB drives, blank media, packaging, printing, and transfer work. Customers typically come to us when they need more than a commodity vendor and want practical guidance from intake through delivery.
By keeping media, print, packaging, and project coordination aligned, Nordex helps reduce preventable mistakes, avoid unnecessary handoffs, and recommend the right production path before costs drift.
If your current supplier is serving you well, there may be no reason to change. Customers usually move work to Nordex when they want more responsive communication, broader packaging support, clearer file review, or a second source that can handle more of the project in one place.
Yes. Depending on the project, Nordex can help with file review, packaging guidance, custom USB configuration, variable data applications, barcode or QR code work, print coordination, and other production details that benefit from experienced input.
In addition to disc work, Nordex supports custom USB drives, blank and printable media, video transfer, variable data applications, and packaging options that help bring the final handoff together more professionally.
If you want to ask about an in-person or remote walkthrough, contact Nordex and let us know what would be most useful for your project. Availability can vary, but we are happy to discuss the options.
The site includes service pages, quote and contact paths, project resources, artwork guidance, and FAQs so you can prepare more confidently before ordering or while a project is already in progress.
No. You can start the conversation before every file is finalized. If you can share the format, quantity, packaging needs, artwork status, and timeline, Nordex can usually guide the project and quote it more accurately from there. See what to have ready
Yes. If you need help with artwork, Nordex can create or refine the layout for approval. If you already have a logo, brand guide, or working files, send those over so we can start from the right direction.
Production does not move forward until you approve the artwork. We provide a proof or mock-up for review first, then make any needed corrections before the job is released.
Ask Nordex for the exact template or dieline before you begin designing. Disc hubs, bleeds, safe zones, and panel layouts vary by media format and packaging style, so it is important to work from the right file from the start. Review artwork specifications
No. It is better to wait for the correct template or dieline than to build from memory and have to rebuild the layout later. Starting with the right structure saves time and reduces proofing problems.
Use press-ready PDF, TIFF, or layered PSD files, build at final size, keep resolution at 300 DPI or higher, work in CMYK for print files, and either embed fonts or convert them to outlines.
Yes. If you want a quick check before final approval, send the working files or a draft PDF. It is much easier to catch size, bleed, spine, or safe-zone issues before the job is locked in.
Yes. We can work from artwork sent by email or file transfer, along with master content delivered on a disc, flash drive, or external drive. If anything about the files or source media needs clarification, we will let you know before production begins.
CDs are typically packed 100 per spindle and 600 per case. DVDs are typically packed 50 per spindle and 200 per case.
No. Paper sleeves are separate from the media itself and are generally sold in cases of 1,000.
Blank-media orders are usually filled and shipped the same day they arrive, assuming the requested stock is available.
Pricing depends on quantity, disc type, and the surface you need, such as inkjet, thermal, white-top, or silver-top media.
For smaller orders, Nordex generally requests payment by credit card. For larger orders, a NET 30 account may be possible depending on the situation.
Higher-speed burners write discs more quickly. As a simple example, a 4X burner generally takes about twice as long as an 8X burner on the same job.
In that context, X refers to capacity relative to the original 128 MB 1X optical disk. Newer media was described as multiples of that original standard.
In many cases, yes. ISO-standard optical drives are generally downward compatible, so a higher-speed drive can often read and write lower-speed media within its supported range.
The longer formats store more data by adjusting the recording characteristics and track pitch. In practical terms, the 80-minute format holds more than the 74-minute format, which holds more than the 60-minute version.
MiniDisc is Sony's disc-based digital format. It was first used for audio and later adapted for computer-data storage in certain applications.
That difference comes from decimal versus binary reporting. A disc sold as 4.7 GB will often appear closer to 4.38 GB in a computer operating system.
No medium is universally compatible with every device. DVD-R works with many players and drives, but actual playback still depends on the specific hardware involved.
Those labels mainly reflect the intended use environment. 'For Data' is aimed at computer use and 'For Video' at standalone recorders, but the media itself is not fundamentally different.
DVD-RAM is a rewritable DVD format that was designed more for computer use, with defect management and fast access. It is not broadly compatible with consumer DVD players.
DVD-RW is a rewritable DVD format. It is often compatible with many drives and players and is generally rated for about 1,000 rewrite cycles.
DVD+RW is the rewritable version and DVD+R is the write-once version. Both were developed as higher-capacity DVD recording formats for video and data use.
DVD-R is a write-once DVD format based on organic dye technology. It is widely recognized and works with many DVD drives and players.
A DVD is an optical disc format that stores much more data than a CD and is commonly used for video, audio, software, and data delivery.
They are the same general size, but DVDs store far more data than CDs. That higher capacity is the main practical difference for most buyers.
CD-R is best for write-once use, archiving, and broad compatibility. CD-RW is better when you need to erase and reuse the disc repeatedly.
The common standard is about 1,000 rewrites, although real-world performance can vary depending on the media, drive, and handling.
CD-R color varies because different discs use different dye and reflective-layer combinations. Those material choices affect the final appearance of the disc.
CD-RW is a rewritable compact disc format whose recorded sections can be erased and used again, typically for about 1,000 cycles.
CD-R is a recordable compact disc that can be written once and then read back like a standard CD-ROM.
Start with how the disc face will be handled. Choose custom printed discs when you want Nordex to print the artwork before the order ships. Choose inkjet or thermal printable media when you already print discs in-house. Choose unbranded silver-top media when you need dependable blank stock without a printable coating. Compare blank media options
For smaller orders, Nordex generally requests payment by credit card. For larger orders, a NET 30 account may be possible depending on the scope and account setup.
Yes. In general, the unit price improves as the quantity goes up.
Nothing is released to production until you approve the artwork. We send a proof first, review any needed corrections, and only proceed once you are comfortable signing off.
No. Nordex prints directly on the disc surface rather than applying stick-on labels.
Standard printed-disc turnaround is usually about a week, and rush options may be possible depending on the schedule and the job details.
Yes. If you need help with the printed layout, Nordex can create or refine the artwork and provide a proof for approval before production.
High-resolution PDF is usually the best starting point. If your files are in another production-ready format, send what you have and we can confirm whether anything should be adjusted before the job moves forward.
Printed bulk discs are commonly packed 100 per spindle and 400 per case, and they usually ship by UPS unless the order requires a different arrangement.
A typical setup charge is about $20 per color, depending on the artwork and print requirements.
Pricing depends primarily on quantity and the complexity of the artwork, including the number of colors involved.
Yes. In general, the larger the run, the lower the unit cost becomes.
Yes. We can review existing files and accept master content on a disc, flash drive, external drive, or by file transfer, depending on what is most practical for the project.
It is generally not recommended. Added seals or labels can affect balance, create vibration, and lead to write or playback issues.
Yes. If you have a technical question about media, printing, packaging, or production fit, contact Nordex and we can talk it through.
Nordex is known for fast turnaround, and many projects move efficiently because the media, printing, and packaging steps are coordinated instead of split across multiple vendors.
These technologies help prevent buffer underruns during high-speed burning. If your equipment does not support them, lowering the burn speed or copying source data to a hard drive first can help reduce problems.
DVD-R uses a layered construction similar in principle to recordable CD media, including an organic dye recording layer within a polycarbonate disc structure.
Those labels mainly describe the intended use case, not a major physical difference in the media itself. 'For Data' is associated with computer use and 'For Video' with standalone recorders.
Yes. Some customers only need finished discs with on-disc printing, while others need inserts, packaging, and assembly as well. Nordex can quote the project as discs only or as a more complete packaged release. See disc options
Offset printing is usually the better fit for full-color artwork, gradients, and photo-heavy layouts. Silkscreen printing is usually the better fit for spot-color artwork, especially when the design is built around one to five solid colors. Review disc print options
Nordex supports a wide range of USB styles, including swivel, key, pen, leather, wood, wristband, business card, and custom-shape options. If you have a particular body style or presentation goal in mind, we can help narrow it down. Explore USB styles
Yes. We can preload files so the drives arrive ready to use, which is especially helpful for events, sales handoff, training, software delivery, and other organized distribution programs.
Yes. Depending on the project, Nordex can help with password protection, partitioning, read-only data locking, autorun configuration, drive icons, and custom volume labels.
The best capacity depends on the size of the files you are delivering, whether you want recipients to save additional files later, and how much budget sensitivity the project has. We can help you right-size the drive instead of overspending on unnecessary capacity.
That depends on the body style and material. Common approaches include printed logos, laser engraving for wood or metal, and finish or color choices that change how the drive feels in hand.
Yes. Nordex can pair the drive with packaging such as paper boxes, tins, wood boxes, gift boxes, sleeves, or more presentation-focused kits when the project calls for a more polished handoff.
Yes. That is one of the main reasons customers contact us early. We can help narrow down the body style, choose a sensible capacity for the files involved, and recommend packaging that matches the audience, handoff moment, and budget. Explore custom USB drives
Yes. As quantity increases, the per-unit cost generally becomes more favorable.
Duplication is usually the better fit for shorter runs, faster setup, and projects that still need print or packaging but do not yet justify the volume required for replication. Compare duplication and replication
Yes. Duplication can still be paired with on-disc printing, inserts, packaging, and assembly. It is not limited to bare discs only.
Nordex works with common legacy formats such as VHS, VHS-C, Hi8, 8mm, MiniDV, DVCAM, Betamax, Betacam, and other older media types when practical. See video transfer service
Yes. Nordex can transfer audio cassettes and other legacy audio formats into digital files, CD, MP3, or WAV depending on what makes the most sense for the archive.
Transferred media can be returned as digital files, on USB or hard drive, or on playable DVD or Blu-ray when that is the better fit for how the archive will actually be used.
Yes. Your original media is returned along with the finished transfer unless you request a different arrangement.
Older media is reviewed before transfer begins. If Nordex finds visible damage, mold, or severe degradation, we will let you know what we see and discuss the realistic options before work moves forward.
Yes. In addition to family archives, Nordex can help scope larger collections for schools, organizations, departments, or historical archives that need a more systematic transfer plan.
Place the order first and Nordex will provide clear instructions for safe packing and shipment. If drop-off is easier, that can be discussed as well. The goal is to protect the originals before transfer begins. See video transfer service
The best return format depends on how the archive will actually be used. Digital files are usually the most flexible for preservation and backup. USB or hard drive is useful when you want a physical copy of the digital archive. DVD or Blu-ray can make sense when the goal is easy playback for recipients who are not comfortable working with files. Compare transfer return formats
Need help figuring out what to prepare first?
Start your project and use the guided flow to narrow down the media type, packaging, files, and timeline details that matter most.