Selecting the right disc

An optical drive supports optical discs (CDs and DVDs). CDs, used to store digital data, are also used for commercial audio recordings and are convenient for your personal storage needs. DVDs and BDs are used primarily for movies, software, and data backup purposes. DVDs are the same form factor as CDs but have at least 8 times the storage capacity.

NOTE: The optical drive on your computer may not support all the types of optical discs discussed in this section.

CD-R discs

Use CD-R (write-once) discs to create permanent archives and to share files with virtually anyone. Typical uses include the following:

●Distributing large presentations

●Sharing scanned and digital photos, video clips, and written data

●Making your own music CDs

●Keeping permanent archives of computer files and scanned home records

●Offloading files from your hard drive to free up disk space

After data is recorded, it cannot be erased or written over.

CD-RW discs

Use a CD-RW disc (a rewritable version of a CD) to store large projects that must be updated frequently. Typical uses include the following:

●Developing and maintaining large documents and project files

●Transporting work files

●Making weekly backups of hard drive files

●Updating photos, video, audio, and data continuously

DVD±R discs

Use blank DVD±R discs to permanently store large amounts of information. After data is recorded, it cannot be erased or written over.

DVD±RW discs

Use DVD+RW discs if you want to be able to erase or write over data that you saved earlier. This type of disc is ideal for testing audio or video recordings before you burn them to a CD or DVD that cannot be changed.

LightScribe DVD+R discs

Use LightScribe DVD+R discs for sharing and storing data, home videos, and photos. These discs are read-compatible with most DVD-ROM drives and set-top DVD video players. With a LightScribe-enabled drive and LightScribe software, you can write data to the disc and then add a designer label to the outside of the disc.

4	Chapter 2 Using an optical drive

CQ60-615DX, CQ60-514NR, CQ60-422DX, CQ60-423DX specifications

The HP CQ60 series laptops, including models like the CQ60-423DX, CQ60-422DX, CQ60-514NR, and CQ60-615DX, were designed to cater to everyday computing needs with a focus on providing a balance of performance, affordability, and portability. These laptops, popular in their time, have made a mark in the budget-friendly laptop segment.

At the heart of these models is the Intel Celeron processor, a reliable choice for basic tasks such as web browsing, document editing, and media consumption. With configurations featuring up to 4GB of RAM, these laptops offer a stable performance for multitasking on simple applications. The CQ60 series is typically equipped with a 15.6-inch display, providing a decent viewing experience for watching videos and browsing photographs, along with a resolution that supports good image clarity for everyday use.

Storage options in the CQ60 series vary, with hard drives typically ranging up to 500GB. This ample storage space is sufficient for housing documents, media files, and a variety of applications, making the CQ60 suitable for students and professionals alike. The integrated graphics capability allows for light gaming and streaming, although they may not handle high-end graphic-intensive games or applications.

In terms of connectivity, these laptops come with features like built-in Wi-Fi and multiple USB ports, making it easy to connect to the internet and peripherals. Additionally, some models in the series include HDMI output, allowing users to connect their laptops to larger screens for presentations or entertainment purposes.

The design of the CQ60 series showcases a streamlined, textured chassis that combines aesthetics with functionality. Weighing around 5.5 pounds, the laptops are relatively portable, making them easy to carry for on-the-go use. Battery life is decent for casual users, allowing for several hours of use on a single charge, which is essential for students or professionals moving between classes or meetings.

In summary, the HP CQ60-423DX, CQ60-422DX, CQ60-514NR, and CQ60-615DX laptops offer solid specifications for everyday tasks. With their combination of performance, affordability, and user-friendly design, they serve as reliable machines for users who need a dependable laptop for daily computing needs. While they may not be the most powerful options available today, their value for typical office work, educational purposes, and basic entertainment makes them a notable consideration in the budget laptop market.