Across the changing landscape of computing, being able to grasp different storage methods is an important skill. For example, the CD-ROM has been an important factor in data storage competition since its introduction. This article examines what CD-ROMs are, how they work and their importance in computing.
What is a CD-ROM?
CD-ROM is Compact Disc Read Only Memory. A digital storage medium for data on an optical disc. CD-ROMs are non volatile, so data is retained when the computer switches off. Though originally designed as a means of storing audio, they were soon being preferred over other media for software distribution and data storage because their capacities and durability far defeated those of cassettes.
How does a CD-ROM function?
A CD-ROM is a flat, circular disc of polycarbonate with one side coated reflectively. Data is written onto the disc in tiny physical pits and lands. Inside an optical disc drive a laser beam scans these pits and lands, reflected light being interpreted by the device as data.
The reading process takes place as the laser beam moves from center to edge following a spiral track on the CD-ROM. Sectors each hold a fixed amount of data. These sectors are read as the laser scans over the surface of a disc, and transferred to a computer for processing.
Types of CDs
1. CD-ROM (Read-Only): This is the most widely used type of CD-ROM. The information on these discs is written in at the time of manufacture, and cannot be subsequently modified or erased. These make excellent vehicles for software distribution and archival purposes.
2. CD-R (Recordable): With CD-R discs, users can put data onto a blank CD using the recording software in their computer. But once data has been written to a CD-R, it cannot be changed or erased.
3. CD-RW (Rewritable): CD-RWs are rewritable versions of CD-R discs. They can be used to write, rewrite or erase data repeatedly. Because CD-RW discs can be reformatted, they are ideal for frequent data updates and backups as well as temporary storage uses.
Importance of CD-ROM in computing
1. Software Distribution: The Internet era of software distribution CD-ROMs. They provided an easy and secure way to get out the big applications, games or operating systems.
2. Data Storage: CD-ROMs, in contrast with the traditional floppy disk, offered large storage capacity. Users could then store documents, photos, videos and other types of data on a tiny portable format.
3. Easy Accessibility: Computers and laptops; gaming consoles like Nintendo 64 or Playstation; even CD/DVD players. Thus data is made widely available irrespective of the version being used in any particular software package or differences among devices.
4. Data Archival: CD-ROMs are a safe, long-term medium for archiving important data. CD-ROMs are non volatile, so they maintain your information for a long time. They are the perfect backup media and can be used to store valuable data forever.
