How CD-R and CD-RW work, Performance

CD-R and CD-RW

CD-R is the term used to denote CD-Recordable media. CD-R discs are recorded permanently. Once information is written, it cannot be erased. Data can be added until the disc is full. CD-R is good for creating archived information that need not be changed, or for distribution, because the price of CD-R media has dropped rapidly in the last few years.

CD-RW is the term used to denote CD-ReWritable media. CD-RW discs can be written to many times. CD-RW media is rated for one thousand different writes to the media. CD-RW is perfect for personal file storage or for creating reliable backups that can be added to as necessary, and even rewritten as your backup scheme requires.

While CD-RW media is more expensive than CD-R media it has a lower cost per megabyte than other competing technologies, such as Magneto–Optical or even magnetic removable media drives.

CD-RW drives are very versatile for transporting information to both older and newer CD-ROM and DVD-ROM drives. CD-RW media can be read by newer CD-ROM and DVD-ROM drives. These newer drives are known as Multi-Read (MR) drives. And even though CD-RW media cannot be read by older CD-ROM drives, the Sony CD-RW Recorder can write to CD-R media which can be read by standard CD-ROM drives and Audio CD Players.

How CD-R and CD-RW work

CD-ROM drives (CD-R and CD-RW drives as well) read the one and zero bits by difference in reflectivity. Mass produced Compact Discs are created by stamping “pits” in the CD. These “pits” reflect differently than the “land” which is the area between “pits.”

CD-R drives work by using a laser beam to heat the recording layer, causing a chemical reaction in that spot so CD-ROM players will see this as a “pit” and the unburnt area as “land.”

CD-RW uses what is known as a “Phase Change” technology. In the CD-RW media is a substance which can be changed from an amorphous “mark,” that very closely resembles the pits of a stamped CD, to a crystalline state which resembles “land.” The laser beam of the Sony CD-RW Recorder Drive changes the crystalline state to the amorphous state by use of a laser to quickly heat the spot on the disc, forming a mark. To change the amorphous state back to the crystalline state, the laser beam uses a lower power setting to transition the mark back to the crystalline “land.”

Performance

The CD-RW Recorder drive is capable of writing CD-R discs at 8X speed and CD-RW discs at 4X (quad) speed. Quad speed or 4X means that the drive can write (also called record or burn) a CD-RW disc at 600 kilobytes per second. This rate allows the drive to record a full 650 megabyte CD-RW disc in about 18 minutes. At 8X speed the drive can write at 1200 kilobytes per second, or record a full 650 megabyte CD-R disc in only 9 minutes.

CD-RW Recorder User’s Guide

CRX0811, CRX140E specifications

The Sony CRX140E and CRX0811 are notable optical drives that reflect the precision engineering and technological innovation that Sony has become synonymous with. These drives are tailored for users seeking reliable performance in CD and DVD recording and playback.

The Sony CRX140E is a multi-format CD/DVD writer that supports a variety of disc types. It is capable of writing DVDs at speeds of up to 8x and CDs at speeds reaching 40x, making it a strong contender for users who frequently handle CD and DVD media. One standout feature of the CRX140E is its support for various disc formats including DVD±R, DVD±RW, and CD-R/RW. This versatility makes it an ideal choice for personal and professional users alike.

Meanwhile, the CRX0811 model is designed with efficiency and compactness in mind. Typically found in slim-line laptops, this optical drive showcases Sony's commitment to maximizing performance without sacrificing space. The CRX0811 also supports a range of formats and writes DVDs at impressive rates, catering to the ongoing demand for high-capacity data storage options. Its ability to read both CDs and DVDs further enhances its appeal, making it a handy tool for retrieving data from older formats.

Both models utilize advanced error correction technologies that ensure the integrity of data during the writing processes. This means users can trust that their data is being preserved safely, which is essential for critical backups and archival purposes. The drives are designed for ease of use; they are equipped with plug-and-play capabilities that allow for quick installations and setups.

In terms of design, the CRX140E and CRX0811 feature robust and durable constructions, ensuring longevity in varied usage scenarios. The sleek designs of these drives complement contemporary PCs and laptops, fitting seamlessly into modern setups. The user experience is further enhanced by their low noise operation, which allows for a quieter environment during use.

Overall, the Sony CRX140E and CRX0811 represent a blend of functionality, reliability, and advanced technology. These drives cater to a diverse audience, from casual users needing simple data storage solutions to professionals requiring robust recording capabilities, making them a valuable addition to any tech arsenal.