3-5
CD-ROM Media
CD-ROM discs are 120 mm (4.7 in.) in diameter, and use one data
surface with a capacity of 600 megabytes. The data surface contains
pits and flat spots arranged in a continuous spiral track, which is read
at a constant speed. You may access files and data stored on a CD-
ROM disc, but you may not write files or data to a CD-ROM disc.
CAUTION: Handle CD-ROM discs by the edges only. Al-
ways be sure a CD-ROM disc is either in the
CD-ROM drive or its protective case when not
in use. This will lessen the chance of exposing
the disc surface to dust. Over time, dust reduces
the reliability of the read head in the CD-ROM
drive.
Caring for CD-ROM Discs
Observe the following guidelines to help prevent data loss and pro-
long the life of your CD-ROM discs and drive:
•Use CD-ROM discs in a clean environment to prevent dust par-
ticles from scratching disc surfaces.
•Store CD-ROM discs in a cool, dry place to prevent moisture
and heat damage.
•Don’t try to clean the surface of a CD-ROM disc with cleaning
solvents, as some cleaning solvents may damage the disc.
NOTICE: You must mount the disc after loading it into
the drive. Refer to the section “Mounting and
Unmounting a CD-ROM Disc,” later in this
chapter, for instructions.
CD-ROM discs are iden-
tical to audio compact
discs (CDs), except that
they store computer
data.