CD-ROM Technology

Introduction:

CD-ROM, which stands for Compact Disc Read-Only Memory, is a type of laser disc developed through a partnership between Philips and Sony. The CD-ROM is composed of a combination of Plexiglas and aluminum, with a thickness of 1.2mm. It features a diameter of 12 cm.

Meaning:

CD-ROMs have gained prominence as a medium for storing bibliographic information. The acronym CD-ROM originally referred to Compact Disc Read Only Memory, familiar to many information professionals who were acquainted with compact discs before the advent of CD-ROM technology.

Memory Capacity:

CD-ROMs offer an exceptional storage capacity, with the ability to store around 250,000 bibliographic abstracts on a single disc. In comparison to floppy disks, CD-ROMs provide a storage capacity that is approximately 1,600 times greater. This translates to the potential to record the contents of an entire 20-volume encyclopedia on a single CD-ROM.

Features:

While information stored on a CD-ROM can be retrieved, displayed, manipulated, and printed using various methods, users cannot alter the information stored on the disc. This technology finds significant utility in archiving bibliographic databases, dictionaries, reference books, and library catalogs. CD-ROM databases offer flexible retrieval capabilities and can be purchased by libraries for a fixed price. Once acquired, they can be used repeatedly without additional costs. This has contributed to the popularity of CD-ROM searching among end users due to its cost-effectiveness and user-friendly systems.

Components and Equipment Required:

To access information stored on CD-ROMs, libraries require relatively affordable equipment, including:

1. An IBM PC - 386 or 486 with a compatible color monitor.

2. An operating system such as IBM PC-DOS or MS-DOS version 3.1 or later.

3. A memory capacity of 640 KB RAM.

4. One hard disk drive and one floppy disk drive.

5. CD-ROM retrieval software.

6. CD-ROM discs like COMPENDEX Plus.

CD-ROM technology offers a powerful means of storing and accessing information, making it a valuable tool for libraries and information professionals.

Need for CD-ROM

In the realm of information management, the emergence of CD-ROM technology addresses several pressing needs:

Tight Budgets:

Many libraries in developing countries are grappling with budget reductions ranging from 10 to 20 percent annually. In this context, allocating funds every year for primary source journal subscriptions can be challenging. CD-ROM products offer a solution by providing better information resources to library users.

Enhanced User Services:

CD-ROMs empower end users with increased independence. Direct access to data, comprehensive search options, browsing capabilities, and experimentation without cost constraints are significant advantages. The ability to personally interact with databases and refine or modify searches offers users a liberating experience.

No Telecommunication Hassles:

Utilizing CD-ROMs involves the simple process of inserting a disc into the machine for immediate searching. This proves to be quicker and easier compared to the intricacies of online telecommunications, including accessing vendor databases and inputting passwords.

Space Efficiency:

Replacing old print issues with CD-ROMs reduces the need for extensive physical storage space. A single CD-ROM can accommodate substantial amounts of data that would otherwise require numerous volumes. For example, the cumulative index of Chemical Abstracts and Engineering Index for the latest five years, spanning over 75 volumes of 3,000 pages each, can be stored on a single CD-ROM.

Reduced Dependency on Intermediaries:

CD-ROMs often feature online help screens, tutorials, and user-friendly menu-driven software tailored to inexperienced users. This empowers end users to define their search strategies more effectively compared to relying on intermediaries.

    In the contemporary landscape, there are approximately 560 science and technology CD-ROM databases available, encompassing various subjects such as engineering coverage. CD-ROM technology encompasses a wide range of major information resources that can be seamlessly integrated with personal computers. Its adoption addresses the evolving needs of information seekers, libraries, and institutions.