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Without getting too technical the surface of a CD or DVD is made up of up to around 12 layers. A surface mark or scratch may not make the disc unplayable.

Over the years I have tried several hardware solutions, some were better than others.

However a solution that is used by a growing number or game shops and CD emporium is produced by PerfectPlay a company from south east London.

It is called the Azuradisc repair system. Look at the link given at the end of this piece, find the shop nearest you – most offer while you wait service – and take you disc along. There are also a drop off and overnight services, or should you be to far away ring a shop and do it all by post.

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Small scratches are enough to disrupt the laser and then your game may not play at all. With a CD it could effect a single track – more likely several – certainly enough to affect the listening pleasure.

The plastic covering over the actual data is only there as a protection however if it is marked or damaged then the laser signal is at least distorted or total sent off course. By cleaning/repairing the laser can again get to the data residing several layers below.

Damage to CD/DVD discs is reasonably easy – despite the publicity when they first arrived – accidental damage by dropping is possible, people using dangerous items such as nail varnish or paint nearby, however a friend of mine told the story of a young sibling deliberately scratching his older brothers Harry Potter DVD’s, I was not told if this was he was forced to watch them.

Just enter your post code - only first four levels required – and the outlets closest to you will be displayed along with the mileage to the closest.

Currently there are 65 outlets on the website with – I am told – 15 more in the process of joining. The cost of the service is between £3.95 and £4.95 dependant on the amount of work required. Best of all PerfectPlay offer a no fix no fee service.

Link : www.perfectplay.co.uk