Optical Drives

Over the years, new storage devices have been introduced and some have lasted out and some are on their way to becoming redundant. Optical discs are very popular storage devices that have a universal appeal.

The Beginning

Optical discs i.e. CDs and DVDs are considered the preferred storage media by the average computer users. The early version of the Compact Disc was first introduced for audio playback in 1979. By 1985, these CDs could be used for standard computer data as the first CD drives were introduced. To begin with, they were large, bulky and expensive. It was only in the 1990s that the use of CDs for data storage became really popular. The initial versions were tweaked and companies introduced advanced and high-end media.

The need for higher performing CDs with greater storage capacity inspired companies to introduce DVDs. These DVDs could store 13 times the volume of a 700MB CD. DVD+RW further improved on the initial DVD version making it an extremely versatile data storage medium.

Affordability

There is no doubting that the Optical discs work as suitable storage solutions to satisfy most computer users. The primary reason for their immense mass popularity is because it is extremely affordable. Blank CD-R discs sell for almost nothing and offer a storage capacity up to 700 MB. In fact, in the early years, drives which cost close to $1000 are now sold for as little as $ 200. This makes a huge difference to average users for whom cost plays a big factor.

Adaptability and Availability

Most computers come with in-built optical disc drives. This makes it extremely convenient for users. This means there is no added cost or inconvenience of getting an external drive attached. Further, this allows a user to access data no matter in which location they might be. Another advantage of CDs and DVDs is that they are easily available and so not problematic to purchase.

Improvement

Optical discs have revealed a great amount of versatility. From a rather modest storage medium, they have been upgraded to compete with advanced, state-of-the-art media. There is a new generation of optical storage based on blue lasers rather the red ones which makes it appealing as a new age storage medium. The constant ability to reinvent these optical discs is perhaps the reason for their longevity.

The Drawbacks

For all their universal appeal and popularity, optical discs come with a fair amount of drawbacks. The single biggest drawback is that the demands from users keep getting more and expectations higher. The world of information technology is filled with new media with almost magical capabilities and spellbinding capacity. Pitted against a medium like the USB flash drive, optical drives definitely fall short.

Another drawback of optical discs is the difficulty users have keeping up with the different versions and drives. Options include CDs, DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R, DVD+RW etc. There is no single standard available which makes it complicating when choosing compatible equipment.

The reality about optical discs is that they have definite shelf life. After regular wear and tear, they become dysfunctional. Further, they are extremely susceptible to scratches, rough handling etc. A user has to make sure that backups of these storage devices are frequently made to prevent data loss.

Data loss can happen very easily in the case of optical discs. They are not very hardy and unlike USB drives do not have a special casing that protects it from scratches or dust. If CDs and DVDs are not stored properly, they will most certainly be damaged and result in data loss.

In the event of natural disasters, optical discs are too flimsy to survive. Even exposure to extreme climatic conditions, can harm their functioning and lead to data loss. Another reason for data loss could be virus attacks which an optical disc might pick up from a host computer.

Conclusion

Nothing lasts forever and in the world of information technology, nothing lasts for a long time. Taking into consideration the reality of speedy change and technology, optical discs have managed to survive fairly well. Though people are switching over to newer, more advanced storage media, one definitely cannot write off CDs and DVDs. It wouldnt be over-optimistic to say that they have a few good years left.