DVD-ROMs

Read-only storage discs

DVD-ROMs are optical discs that store data readable by computers and other devices but cannot be written to—ROM stands for read-only memory.

They hold far more data than CD-ROMs, making them standard for software distribution, video games, and reference materials through the early 2000s.

The encyclopedia came on three DVD-ROMs.

media

optical disc

Laser-read data storage circle

polycarbonate · laser · read-only · multimedia · game disc · jewel case

technology

read-only memory

Unalterable computer storage

disc format · ripping · error correction · file system

software

installer

One who sets up

autorun · system requirements · readme file · license agreement

obsolescence

legacy media

Established traditional news organizations

USB drive · digital download · streaming · physical media · degradation · preservation · archival · vintage computing · retro · discontinued

content

encyclopedia

Comprehensive subject-matter collection

interactive learning · Encarta · Britannica · language learning · reference material · clip art · courseware · edutainment

Opposites
writability

DVD-ROMsDVD-RWs

Erasable optical storage discs

DVD-Rs · CD-RWs

physical vs. non-physical media

DVD-ROMsstreaming

Real-time digital delivery

cloud storage · digital downloads · streaming services · video on demand · Netflix

technological era

DVD-ROMsflash drives

Portable USB memory devices

solid-state drives · cloud storage · SD cards · hard drives · streaming platforms

Family

DVD, ROM, DVDs, ROMs, DVD-ROM

Familiarity
Top 200,000
Profile
Used worldwide · Concrete · Everyday, not technical · Rated G