Information storage medium having multiple storage layers with optimal power control (OPC) areas and buffer areas

A recording apparatus for use with an information storage medium, the information storage medium comprising a first information storage layer comprising an optimal power control area for an optimum recording condition, and two buffer areas disposed on opposite sides of the optimal power control area, and a second information storage layer comprising a reproduction-only area and a protection area, the recording apparatus comprising:

• a writer to record data on the information storage medium;
• and
• a controller to detect the optimum recording condition from the optimal power control area;
• wherein the optimal power control area and the two buffer areas in the first information storage layer are disposed to face the reproduction-only area and the protection area in the second information storage layer.

A reproducing apparatus for use with an information storage medium, the information storage medium comprising a first information storage layer comprising an optimal power control area for an optimum recording condition, and two buffer areas disposed on opposite sides of the optimal power control area, and a second information storage layer comprising a reproduction-only area and a protection area, the reproducing apparatus comprising:

• a pick-up to emit light onto the information storage medium;
• and
• a controller to control the pick-up to read data from the information storage medium;
• wherein the optimal power control area and the two buffer areas in the first information storage layer are disposed to face the reproduction-only area and the protection area in the second information storage layer.