The full form of the CD is a compact disc. It is a portable data storage that allows you to store audio, videos, and record files in digital form. You can also store text files, photographs and different types of information on a CD. The compact disc happened only after the laser was invented. A computer, laptop or other device with a CD reader can be used to play a CD. These storage data storages are cheap, lightweight, email-friendly, user-friendly and computer friendly.
Brief History
The CD was first introduced in 1982. It replaced the record and was commercially launched as an audio CD. The compact disc was invented by Philips Electronics and Sony Corporation in 1980. Since then, the CD has expanded from recording and is now widely used for storage purposes.
Physical Attributes
The standard size of CD is 4.75 inches in diameter and 0.05 inches in thickness. The compact disc is made using a clear polycarbonate plastic substrate and a reflective metallic layer. It also has a transparent protective coating layer of acrylic plastic. The audio data is read into a reflective metallic layer in the form of minuscule depressions and contrasting flat areas, which are arranged in a spiral track extending from the inner hole to the outer edge of the CD.
The spacing between the centres of the adjacent groove is 1.6 micrometres. A smaller CD single with 3.1 inches in diameter can also be used for the distribution of audio files. Artwork and labels are printed on the top of the compact disc. The CDs can get damaged when not handled properly and due to various environmental factors. Heat and humidity can cause bacteria to grow on the compact disc.
Types of Compact Discs
Compact discs are available in three main types. You can identify the types of CD by checking the logos on the discs and the machines.
- Standard manufactured CDs (CD-DA): These compact discs can be played on any device with a digital audio player
- CD-RW rewritable: These CDs can only be used with CD-RW compatible machines
- CD-R recordable: This type of CD can be played on CD-R machines and not on all CD digital audio players
Recordable CDs
There are two primary variants of recordable CD, one for computer systems and the other for audio systems. The recordable audio CDs are related to the record industry and cannot be interchanged with computer CD-Rs. You have to check the compatibility of the player before playing a CD.
Benefits of a Compact Disc
Compact discs offer a wide range of uses to consumers. The label of the CD will be on the top and will contain the details of the contents of the CDs are commonly used to listen to music, maintain photos, watch videos, and even store vital text files. Initially, CDs were used only for music purposes; since then, it has come a long way.
Advantages of using a Compact disc?
- The major advantage of using CDs is that it does not get worn out, unlike records and cassette tapes. CDs can last longer when maintained properly
- CDs are portable, weigh less, and the audio quality is more consistent even after a long time
- You can carry CDs everywhere you go and store a backup copy in a different folder on the computer
- CDs have made the digital sector safer by storing the files in case the computer breaks. The important files can be copied to the CD and stored carefully. You can also share the CD with your friends
What is the storage capacity of a CD?
The common compact disc has a capacity to hold data of 650 MB or to play music for 72 minutes. CDs are offering 700 MB of storage capacity and 80 minutes of music.
Conclusion
Now that you have reached the end of the article, you will have an idea about what Compact Discs are, their uses and the benefits offered by them. The improvements in technology have developed CDs further. Compact disks have been used in various industries like music, technology, etc. Information stored on the CD will be maintained securely if stored correctly. You can backup the files of the CD in a different folder on the computer for safekeeping.
