MultiLevel DVD: coding beyond 3 bits/data-cell

In this paper we consider the coding and signal processing aspects of MultiLevel (ML/sup TM/) DVD. Using a turbo-like code, on a standard DVD platform and DVD-like rewritable media, we demonstrate a density of 3.08 bits per 388 nm data cell using 12 levels. This density comes very close to the fundamental limits predicted by theoretical models. We also discuss efficient decoding algorithms that are ideally suited to low-cost consumer applications. The 12-level, 3.08 bit code can be used as part of a ML/sup TM/ DVD (re)writable system that stores 10 Gbytes on the standard DVD base.