FAQs
Here is a list of our Frequently Asked Questions - and our attempt at a concise answer.
If there's anything you're not sure about then please contact us.
Pre-sales Questions
Some assistance before committing to an order
What are the advantages of repairing discs?
There are two key reasons for removing scratches from discs. First, to restore damaged discs that no longer play or work as expected. And secondly, to significantly improve the condition of a disc, therefore increasing its resale value.
Why are scratches to a disc a problem?
Scratches to the underside of a disc can often cross data lines, and how significant (deep and wide) they are will determine just how much interference with the reader's laser will happen. Small or occasional scratches usually have no effect on the ability of the laser to read the disc, because the data is sufficiently below the surface of the disc that the laser is focused beyond the scratch. If scratches are deep enough to damage the data or metal layers on the reading side of a disc, the data can not be read or repaired, but fortunately this doesn't happen too often.
How do TDR machines work?
Each of the 3 main models in our range uses a different approach to repairing discs.
The Eco Pro 2 uses a combination of an abrasive polish and a soft pair of pads to gradually grind away the disc's playing surface, removing an extremely thin layer of polycarobnate until its reached the bottom of the deepest scratch. At the same time, it polishes the plastic to a mirror finish.
The Hybrid uses a similar method but adds an element of heat in order to quicken the repair process.
The Eco Clever and Eco Master use a series of increasingly coarser abrasive pads, combined with water, to remove layers from the disc. The final stage of the process is a soft pad and polish, in order to buff the disc to a like-new finish.
How many times can I repair the same disc?
On a light setting you can usually get 50-100 repairs before any data gets damaged, which is usually far more than a disc would ever require in its usable lifetime
Which is the best machine for Blu-ray?
All machines struggle a little with Blu-ray discs due to the hard coating found on the playing surface of this format. All machines in our range pre-date the Blu-ray disc and so none have been specifically designed for it. We would recommend the VMI Hybrid 2 as the best for repairing Blu-ray discs.
Can I repair a 3 inch / Gamecube disc?
Although there is no machine made specifically for GC disc repair, most manufacturers offer an adaptor which can help. If an adaptor is not used, it can cause premature wear to the pads
What formats of disc are repairable?
Pretty much every format of disc! This includes DVD, CD, Blu-ray, Gamecube, Wii
Do you sell outside the UK?
Yes and if are not contractually able to supply to you then we will refer you to a local distributor who is. Please contact us with your requirements
How much is shipping?
Shipping costs vary based on destination. In the UK we ship with Parcelforce and charge £10 plus VAT per parcel. For web orders of £100 plus VAT and above, we waive this delivery charge. In Europe, countries are placed into zones. You can check the shipping cost to your country by visiting https://totaldiscrepair.com/pages/shipping
Which is the best machine for heavy damage/deep scratches?
Every repair machine in our range will handle deep scratches, but if you have a lot of medium-heavy damage then we would recommend the Eco Clever - or the fully-automated version called the Eco Master. These machines use a series of coarse pads that are able to remove a lot of polycarbonate quickly and effectively.
How do I remove dirt or fingerprints from discs?
For this, we would recommend our high quality cloths and CD Spray.
How long will it take for my order to arrive?
UK orders received before 1pm are sent same day (if a working day) and delivery is usually the next day, but please allow an extra day, especially at peak times. European orders received before 12pm are sent same day (if a working day). The delivery quote is 3-5 working days but this often depends on how quickly the parcel clears through Customs
I have an EORI number - how can I give this to you?
If you are a European customer and have an EORI number then please pass this on to us as it will help your parcel clear through Customs quicker. You can add your EORI number as a note on your order - or email it to sales@totaldiscrepair.com
Can I buy the electronic chips separately?
Unfortunately not. Most consumables are purchased in packs from the manufacturer and we are unable to split up the packs to sell individual components
Do you repair damaged cds/dvds on site?
No, we don't. The best option is to find your local Game or CeX store and contact them to see if they offer the service to the public
Are you the only company selling disc repair equipment?
We are certainly the largest. Other companies existed over the years, but we either acquired them or outlived them. TDR remain the number one disc repair experts in the UK (and beyond)
Why should I buy from TDR?
As well as being industry experts for over 20 years, we have a fantastic, knowledgeable team and decent products. Every machine we sell is backed with a warranty and 30 day money back guarantee.
What if I don't like the machine I buy from you?
As well as the standard 30 day money back guarantee that covers every machine we sell (and it genuinely is no-questions-asked), we also offer upgrades between models in our range, so you needn't feel tied to a particular model.
Within 3 months of purchase, if you'd like to upgrade, we'll give you the full amount that you paid back in part-exchange against the more expensive model.
Machine Identification
Questions about choosing the right machine for your requirements
Why do some consumables have electronic chips/key cards?
Pad and compounds have always had an optimum length of use at their best. Using a chip is the best way to keep on track of the consumables to maintain the highest repair quality and to avoid putting undue stress on the machine's working parts
Where are your machines manufactured?
The Eco range (Eco Pro 2, Eco Clever, Eco Master) are manufactured in Japan, the Hybrid 2 is manufactured in the USA and our Repack-it range of repacking machines are manufactured in Italy
What's the difference between the different models in your range?
Each model in our range offers something a little different to the next. They are all well-built machines and each one offers a very high standard of repair.
We usually summarise by saying that the Eco Pro 2 is best if you mostly have lightly damaged discs, the Eco Clever is best if you have a lot of medium - heavy damage and the Hybrid 2 is best if you want an all-rounder and/or you have a lot of Blu-ray discs to fix.
Support
Technical questions or questions about the Support that we provide
Can I repair a disc that's cracked or warped?
No, unfortunately any cracks or warps cannot be fixed by our range of machines
How long do your machines last?
Every machine in our range is built to a high standard and will last years of use. We offer servicing packages where key components are replaced periodically to ensure optimum running of the machine
What happens if I have an issue with my machine?
There is a lot of online support available on this website but we also have a dedicated Support team who can be contacted at support@totaldiscrepair.co.uk or on 0800 4125424
What are "Top Scratches"?
Top Scratches are marks on the data side (top) of the disc. This mostly occurs on CDs and Blue coloured PS2 discs. On a CD, the data is stored just behind the label, and unfortunately is easy to damage. Once it is damaged the data cannot be restored.
Top Scratches also have the curious nature of appearing to exist on the underside of the disc where really they are on the top. The way to tell is every scratch to the underside of the disc will have a mirror image scratch repeated right next to it. A Top Scratch will not.
Misc
For questions that don't fit in the other categories!
Who is TDR-Solutions?
A few years ago Total Disc Repair was purchased by a Japanese company. Total Distribution and Retail Solutions is our new parent company name and Total Disc Repair is one of the brands that sits underneath it. As well as disc repair we also supply retail security solutions, oil diffuser products and even luxury horse riding leggings
What is the Disc-Go-Devil?
The Disc-Go-Devil is a discontinued disc repair machine manufactuered in the early 2000s by a Canadian company called Disc-Go-Tech. At the time it was quite a revolutionary machine. It sold in its hundreds - at one point there was one in every Blockbuster, Game and HMV store in the country and it brought a lot of recognition and interest to the world of disc repair. Unfortunately the manufacturer went into administration, and we continued to support it with parts and consumables for as long as we could, but regrettably had to draw the line under it for good a few years ago.