Frequently Asked Questions

A: DMDA was formed as the result of meetings with about 40 companies commercially engaged in the manufacture or design of digital media devices or their associated technology. Some of those companies have already become members of DMDA and/or the DMDA-Interoperability Working Group, while others are in the process of doing so and continue to participate in DMDA activities and attend meetings. A list of just those companies that have completed the membership process is available on our web site, and is updated monthly.

Q: What are your goals, and how do you plan to achieve them?

A:  DMDA's general purpose is to promote the acceptance and implementation of technology and applications for portable and 'connected' digital media devices (audio and video), and to support rapid advancement of a sufficient and compatible technology base that promotes a competitive marketplace for said devices.

One of the ways we intend to do that is through the DMDA-IWG, which is an effort formed to develop or otherwise adopt one or more specifications for the lawful consumption and exchange of music (and other types of audio) in digital form on portable and networked audio devices, while encouraging competition and allowing customers freedom of choice.

We also intend to be a resource and an advocate for our members and the industry. Among other things, we will:

• Provide a forum to discuss industry issues, develop standards, and facilitate communication.
• Monitor legislative, legal and business developments affecting the marketplace.
• Advocate the association’s positions on industry-relevant issues
• Publicize and promote digital media products and services, and be a resource to the industry.

Q: Who started DMDA? Who is the director or head of DMDA?

A: Tom White and Jim Fleming are the founders and initial directors of DMDA. Additional directors will be added to the DMDA Board of Directors over time.

Q: What are the qualifications for Membership in DMDA?

A: Companies that are involved in the commercial development or manufacture of digital media devices or associated technologies may join DMDA. Companies that do not meet these guidelines may be able to join the DMDA as Associate Members.

Q: What is the the difference between the DMDA Interoperability Working Group (DMDA-IWG) and DMDA?

A: DMDA is a trade association which achieves its mission through various activities. The DMDA-IWG is one of those activities: a forum hosted by DMDA, open to both DMDA members and non-members, to resolve device interoperability issues. (The DMDA-IWG was suspended June 2003.)