The actual CDs are produced by pressing them with the master stamp. Then, the printed label is applied to the disk. Many people don't realize that the data surface of the CD is actually the top of the disk. The media layer is directly under the CD label, and the player reads the CD from the bottom by focusing the laser through the 1.2 mm thickness of the CD's substrate. On the other hand, scratches on the top of the disk can actually remove strips of the reflective aluminum coating, leaving the disk immediately unusable.
CDs are fairly hardy but are far from indestructible.
They are reasonably solid but overly flexing them can make them unreadable. They are not too sensitive to heat but will warp if left to bake in direct sunlight on a hot summer's day. CD media should always be cared for properly . This page has been served 9844 times. Copyright 1997-2001 Charles M. Kozierok .