DVD-R FAQ
What is the difference between General Purpose and Authoring DVD-R?
(From DVDdemystified.com)
DVD-R(G) is intended for home use, while DVD-R(A) is intended for professional development. DVD-R(A) media is not writable in DVD-R(G) recorders, and vice-versa, but both kinds are readable in most DVD players and drives. The main differences, in addition to recording wavelength, are that DVD-R(G) uses decrementing pre-pit addresses, a pre-stamped (version 1.0) or pre-recorded (version 1.1) control area, CPRM ,and allows double-sided discs.

Can I submit a DVD-R General Purpose to a mastering house for duplication?
(From DVDdemystified.com)
It's possible to submit DVD-R(A) and DVD-R(G) discs for replication, with limitations. First, not all replicators will accept submissions on DVD-R. Second, there can be problems with compatibility and data loss when using DVD-R, so it's best to generate a checksum that the replicator can verify. Third, DVD-R does not directly support CSS, regions, and Macrovision. Support for this is being added to DVD-R(A) with the new cutting master format (CMF), which stores DDP information in the control area, but it will take a while before most authoring software and replicators support CMF.

How long will my DVD-R last?
(From DVDdemystified.com)
DVD-R and DVD+R discs are expected to last anywhere from 40 to 250 years, about as long as CD-R discs.

Can I use a DVD-R recorder to copy commerical DVD movies?
No. DVD-R discs have an area called the "CSS decryption key area" molded at the factory with information that prevents copying.

Can I copy a TV program with my DVD-R recorder?
There are home DVD-R recorders that record TV programs like a VCR, but they are only available in Japan at this point, with a price point of about $3000.

Links to more information

General DVD Information
Hugh Bennett's eMedia Magazine review of the DVR-AO3
http://www.emedialive.com/reviews/bennett6_01.html

DVDdemystified.com's DVD FAQ page
http://dvddemystified.com/dvdfaq.html

Pioneer's Andy Parson's white paper that explains the differences between DVD-R(G) and DVD-R(A).
http://www.pioneerelectronics.com/Pioneer/Files/DVDR_whitepaper.pdf

DVD Entertainment Group

The DVD Lexicon

Open DVD Group

Recipe 4 DVD

DVD Specifications

Dolby Laboratories

DVD Copy Control Association

DVD Forum

DVD+RW Alliance

Optical Storage Technology Association

RW Products Promotion Initiative