How Can I View Mini CDs?

You have options for viewing your mini CDs.

More compact than traditional compact disks, eight-centimeter mini CDs are used for data storage and music files. Mini CDs might appear tricky to access because of their small size, but you can read them with computer drives, portable CD players and special adapters.

Things You'll Need

• Mini CD
• Computer, mini CD player or mini CD adapter

Instructions

Read the Mini CD

1. Insert the mini CD into the top-loading CD tray built into your computer. Ensure the tray is compatible before inserting the disk. A compatible tray will include a large circle for loading full-size CDs and a small circle within that for loading mini CDs. If the contents of the disk don't automatically open, you can access the disk from your list of removable storage devices. Double click the icon for the CD.

2. Use a mini CD adapter as an alternative way to view the contents of mini CDs. The adapter is a large ring the same diameter as a traditional CD. Place your mini CD into the center of the ring, and insert the adapter into a regular CD drive. The drive should now read the disk.

3. Access your mini CD's audio files with a mini CD player. Mini CD players work like traditional portable CD players, except they are smaller. You will need to purchase one online or at an electronics store. Insert your disk into the loading tray and push the play button.

Tips & Warnings

• You can access only music files with a portable mini CD player. If you want to access data, you will need to use a different method.

• Never insert a mini CD into a drive of unknown compatibility. The disk could get trapped inside.

References

• New York Times Gadgetwise Blog; Q.&A.: Rescuing a Trapped Mini-CD; J.D. Biersdorfer; 2010