Read this chapter for information about

your computer’s built-in CD-ROM drive.

5 Using the CD-ROM Drive

This chapter provides information on the CD-ROM drive (also called a CD-ROM player). Refer to Appendix A, “Health, Safety, and Maintenance Tips,” for information on the proper handling of these discs.

Your internal CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read-Only Memory) drive for Macintosh computers works with CD-ROM discs, standard audio compact discs (CDs), and single-session or multisession Photo CDs. Your CD-ROM drive provides access to large amounts of information. However, you cannot save information on CD-ROM discs. ROM stands for read-only memory, meaning that the drive cannot “write” information onto CD-ROM discs.

A wide selection of CD-ROM discs is available for entertainment, education, and business. A typical disc can hold over 650 megabytes (MB) of information—the equivalent of 270,000 pages of text, up to 8 hours

of speech or music (depending on the sound quality), hundreds of high- resolution images, or any combination of text, sound, and graphics.

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Apple 5200CD, 5300CD manual Using the CD-ROM Drive

5200CD, 5300CD specifications

The Apple 5300CD, released in 1995, represents a unique chapter in Apple's history, catering specifically to the needs of mobile professionals and educational institutions. This portable Macintosh laptop was notable for its blend of performance, portability, and multimedia features, making it a versatile choice for various users.

At its core, the Apple 5300CD was powered by the PowerPC 603 processor, which operated at a speed of 100 MHz. This architecture was a significant shift for Apple, marking its transition to a more powerful and efficient computing platform. The device typically came with 16 MB of RAM, which was expandable up to 64 MB, allowing users to run applications smoothly, even for the demanding software of the time.

One of the standout features of the 5300CD was its display. It featured a 12.1-inch active-matrix LCD monitor, providing vibrant colors and a resolution of 800x600 pixels. This made it suitable for a range of tasks, from word processing to graphic design. The inclusion of a built-in CD-ROM drive was also a highlight, enabling users to access multimedia content and software directly from CDs, a relatively new and powerful feature at that time.

In terms of connectivity, the Apple 5300CD offered a range of ports, including a serial port, a SCSI port for connecting peripherals, and an ADB port for Apple devices. This ensured compatibility with various accessories, such as printers and external storage solutions. The built-in modem facilitated internet access, allowing users to stay connected in an increasingly digital world.

The laptop's design was another noteworthy aspect. It had a compact and lightweight form factor, making it easy to carry, which was essential for users on the go. The significant battery life of around 3 to 5 hours provided the mobility needed for professionals who relied on their devices throughout the day.

While the Apple 5300CD is often remembered for its distinctive design and robust features, it also faced criticism due to its reliability issues, particularly with its logic board. Nonetheless, the model represented an important step in Apple's evolution, paving the way for future portable computing devices.

In conclusion, the Apple 5300CD was a trailblazer in portable computing during the mid-1990s, featuring a powerful processor, a vibrant display, multimedia capabilities, and a compact design. Its introduction underscored Apple’s commitment to innovation and adaptability in the rapidly evolving technology landscape of the time.