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DVD 5.1 (English)
What do the symbols on the DVD cover mean?
As a wide range of data types can be stored on a DVD, a whole selection of symbols are used
to visualize the contents and technical options of individual discs for the user. Here are some
of the most commonly-used symbols:
Region code—the title can only be played in certain regions (also see page 48).
Dolby Digital surround sound
DTS surround sound
Number of languages on the DVD (also see page 44)
Number of subtitles on the DVD (also see page 44)
Supported picture formats (also see page 40)
Age restrictions/protection options (also see page 30)
Number of camera angles (also see page 42)
Regional restrictions on DVDs.
New technology, new vagaries: DVDs can be restricted to viewers in specified regions at the
request of the content providers. This has been made possible by the so-called region code.
The planet has been roughly divided into 6 regions for this purpose.
Region 1
USA, Canada
Region 2
Japan, Europe, Near East, South Africa
Region 3
Southeast Asia
Region 4
Australia, Central America, South America, New Zealand
Region 5
Northwest Asia, North Africa
Region 6
China
Yet another code is available for use onboard aircraft. And last but not least, there's the re-
gion code 0, which is perhaps the most popular. It permits the essentially free use of the DVD.
When buying DVDs, be sure to keep an eye on the region code.