What Is the Definition for Optical Drive?

Computers use optical drives to manage software.

Optical drives are used with computers to read data and sometimes to write data, as well. They are the most widely used format for copying and distributing computer software.

Optical

Normally, the word "optical" refers to things that have to do with vision. Regarding computers, however, "optical" refers to the data that can be detected by a laser on an optical disc.

Discs

Compact discs (CDs) and digital versatile discs (DVDs) are two forms of media that can be read by optical drives. These discs are made up of millions of very small dips and bumps, which the lasers on the optical drive translate as ones and zeroes, which the computer can understand.

Types

Optical drives are used on CD-ROMs, CD-RW (read/write), DVD-ROM, DVD-RW, and Blu-ray drives. On CD-Rs and DVD-Rs, the laser both reads from and writes to the optical drive.

Speed

Although optical drives spin quickly, they are slower than the magnetic storage systems used by hard drives.

Accessibility

Optical drives are widely used because they are removable and inexpensive.

References

• Merriam-Webster Dictionary: Optical
• Sharpened Glossary: Definition of Computer Terms--Optical Drive