Laser-readable Discs

Laser-readable Discs

Laser-readable discs, also known as optical discs, are a type of storage medium that uses laser technology to read and write data. These discs are typically made of a polycarbonate substrate, which is coated with a thin layer of reflective material, such as aluminum. The reflective layer is then covered with a protective layer of lacquer or other material to prevent scratches and other damage. Laser-readable discs come in several different formats, including CD, DVD, and Blu-ray. CDs, or compact discs, were first introduced in the 1980s and were primarily used for storing music. DVDs, or digital versatile discs, were introduced in the late 1990s and were used for storing movies and other video content. Blu-ray discs, which were introduced in the mid-2000s, are capable of storing high-definition video and other large files. To read data from a laser-readable disc, a laser beam is directed onto the reflective layer of the disc. The laser beam reflects off the disc and is detected by a sensor, which converts the reflected light into digital data. To write data to a laser-readable disc, a laser beam is used to heat the reflective layer, which causes it to change its physical properties. This change in properties creates a pattern of bumps and pits on the disc, which can be read by a laser beam in the future. Laser-readable discs have several advantages over other types of storage media. They are relatively inexpensive to produce, and can store large amounts of data in a small space. They are also durable and can withstand a certain amount of wear and tear, making them ideal for long-term storage of important data.

optical discs, laser technology, polycarbonate substrate, reflective material, protective layer

— William Robinson

CITATION : "William Robinson. 'Laser-readable Discs.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=361126 (Accessed on June 07, 2025)"