Method and apparatus of converting a series of data words into modulated signals

A method of converting a series of data word into a modulated signal, comprising the steps of:

• (a) generating for each data word a number of alternative sequences by combining mutually different digital words with the data word;
• (b) calculating, for each alternative sequence, a digital sum value and a penalty based on respective consecutive-zeros sections;
• and
• (c) selecting one alternative sequence for recording onto a recordable medium based on the calculated digital sum values and penalties.

A recording medium, including at least one sequence that has been recorded thereon through the following steps of:

• generating for each data word a number of alternative sequences by combining mutually different digital words with the data word;
• calculating, for each alternative sequence, a digital sum value and a penalty based on respective consecutive-zeros sections;
• and
• selecting one alternative sequence for recording onto a recordable medium based on the calculated digital sum values and penalties.