Abstract: A recording layer is described that is at least partially or entirely positioned at a distance T7 of less than 0.4 mm with respect to the second surface. When the optical recording medium is clamped in a drive, the recording layer has a “higher” position than a recording layer of a known DVD. The layer structure of the described optical recording medium reduces the thickness of the disc in an area of the recording layer. In particular, a thickness T1 of only 0.4 to 0.7 mm is possible while maintaining the reliability of the optical recording medium (i.e. without reading problems in most or all drives). Further, the optical recording medium may have only one substrate, i.e. only one disc of polycarbonate, whereas the other side of the recording layer is only covered by a protective lacquer.

Abstract: An optical recording medium is described. The optical recording medium includes a substrate and a recording layer arranged on one side of the substrate. The optical recording medium also includes a clamping area formed to achieve, when the clamping area is clamped by a device, a tension that enhances shape stability of at least a part of the optical recording medium outside of the clamping area.