CD's and LP records are non-linear. Digital video is both non-linear and digital. CDs are non-linear digitally recorded devices. In both cases the recording is a computer file or collection of computer files. Non-linearity adds quick random access.
Digital representation gives extreme high quality.
These characteristics have helped the audio CD almost completely replace both records and audio tapes. At the moment, however, the cost of digital video devices is too high for significant consumer use. Digital video is primarily restricted to the production studio, newsroom, and multimedia shops - for now. We use a professional grade system called the Media 100. The mixer is used to create transitions between video clips.