Student Name: Naomi Ermias
Subject: ICT
Class Duration:1 hour
Optical Storage Media
CD/DVD Disks
• CDs (Compact Discs) and DVDs (Digital Versatile Discs) are optical
storage devices, which use laser light to read and write data.
• Both use a thin layer of metal or light-sensitive organic dye to store
information.
• Data is organized in a single spiral track from the center to the edge of
the disk.
• The information is stored in the form of pits (depressions) and lands (flat
areas) on the spiral track, which are read by a red laser.
Types of CD/DVD Formats
• R: Write once only.
• ROM: Read-only memory (can only be read, not written to).
• RW: Rewritable (can be written to and read from multiple times).
DVD Technology:
Dual-Layering
• DVDs often use a technology called dual-layering, allowing them to
store more data.
• Two recording layers are used, separated by a transparent spacer.
• Layer 1 is read first, and Layer 2 is read after, using a slightly different laser
focus.
Laser Wavelengths
• DVDs use a laser with a 650 nm wavelength.
• CDs use a laser with a 780 nm wavelength.
• A shorter wavelength (like DVDs) allows more data to be stored due to
smaller pit sizes.
CD-ROM and DVD-ROM (Read-Only Memory)
• ROM disks can only be read, not written to or erased.
• Data is stored as pits and lands.
• Pits represent binary 1.
• Lands represent binary 0.
• The laser beam reads this data by reflecting off the surface.
• ROMs are used where data needs to be protected from deletion or
overwriting.
Uses of CD-ROMs and DVD-ROMs
• CD-ROMs store:
• Music files
• Software
• Computer games
• Reference software (e.g., encyclopedias)
DVD-ROMs have larger storage and are used for
• Storing films
• Computer data
• High-end computer games
• Applications that require protection of data (e.g., preventing overwriting)
Advantages of CDs/DVDs
• Can store much more data than floppy disks.
• Less expensive compared to hard disk drive systems.
Disadvantages of CDs/DVDs:
• Slower data transfer rate and access time compared to hard disks.
CD-RW and DVD-RW
• CD-RW and DVD-RW are types of rewritable media which means they
can be rewritten multiple times.
• Unlike CD-R/DVD-R, they do not become read-only (ROMs).
Technology Used:
• Utilize a special phase-changing metal alloy (often GeSbTe) which can
switch between crystalline and amorphous states when heated by a laser.
• This change in state alters the disc's reflectivity, which is then read by a
laser.
Uses:
• Recording television programs for repeated viewing.
• Adding more files/data at later stages unless the disc is finalized.
• Commonly used in CCTV systems.
Advantages
• Multiple rewritability.
• Supports various file formats.
Disadvantages
• Higher cost compared to read-only media.
• Risk of accidentally overwriting data.
DVD-RAM
Technology used:
• Uses concentric tracks instead of a single spiral track, allowing for
simultaneous read and write operations.
• Capable of up to 100,000 rewrites with a lifespan of about 30 years.
• Operates at high temperatures for writing (up to 700°C) and lower
temperatures (around 200°C) to erase.
Uses:
• Often used in satellite receivers for simultaneous recording and playback.
• Useful in camcorders for storing movies.
Advantages
• Longevity and reliability in data storage.
• In-built verification software ensures data accuracy.
• High capacity (up to 10 GB if double-sided).
Disadvantages
• Compatibility issues with some devices not recognizing the DVD-RAM
format.
• Relatively more expensive than other DVD formats.
• Outdated by newer technologies like solid-state drives.
Blu-ray Discs (Nxt Lesson)
