Automated duplicators are a lot like manual duplicators, except they'll save you even more time and effort. This will come in handy when you're routinely duplicating large numbers of discs. With the automated duplicator, you place a stack of discs on a spindle, and the duplicator's robotic arm will retrieve the discs when it's ready to start burning them. This is why some people call them autoloader duplicators.

Because of the autoloader feature, the duplicator can usually complete a duplication job from start to finish without you, once the discs are loaded. That way you can give your full attention to other things and even let it operate overnight. This allows you to get your duplication project done and have a life. Some of the higher-end models can print labels and burn discs in bulk as well. They are often referred to as publishers.

Automated duplicators cost more than manual duplicators, but they take a lot less time to load. If you're burning large numbers of discs and have limited time to babysit your duplicator, than an automated duplicator is the product for you.

If you're going to take the time to burn all of your discs, you should make sure they have a high-end look. Could you imagine going into your local video store and seeing the latest Hollywood title with a handwritten label? Videomaker always recommends that you print labels directly on the disc instead of using paper labels. Fortunately, you have a lot of options for creating your own professional-grade labels. Duplication service companies can help you out, or you can do it yourself.

Duplication service providers can print the label on the discs when they burn your order. You can also order blank media with labels printed on them, so you can burn the discs yourself and not have to worry about the print job. Most duplication houses offer inkjet or thermal printing, which adds a professional feel to your discs. For even higher-quality labels, companies like Disc Makers offer silkscreen printing on duplication projects. Because these options look and feel different, don't hesitate to request a print sample or drop by their facility to see which look works best for you.

If you know you're going to print a lot of labels or simply want the convenience of at-home production, you can do it yourself with a CD/DVD printer. These printers can print labels directly on your discs. These devices vary in the number of discs they can print at a time, as well as whether they use inkjet or thermal printing. Unlike a lot of duplicators, they require a computer. As with home-based duplicators, you can choose between manual and automated printers.

Manual printers work well for small jobs of 25 or fewer. Unfortunately, they can print only one at a time, which can constantly take you away from working on other projects. If you have the time and mostly small jobs, this works great and is the most cost-effective way to print CD/DVD labels yourself.

Automated printers operate a lot like automated duplicators. The number of discs they can do at a time varies greatly. If you need to print a large number of labels, these printers can save you time and trouble.