The Basics

• Similar to a CD, the MiniDisc (MD) is a disc-sourced digital medium for recording and storing digitized audio or data files. The gadgets were introduced as a digital upgrade for cassette tapes, which function with analog technology. Impressively, the MiniDisc can store about 75 minutes of audio--rivaling that of a CD.
  
  

The Technology

• A digital compression procedure known as Adaptive Transform Acoustic Coding (ATRAC) is used to compress the audio. This encoding process works by reducing the data to include only that, which is audible to humans. What really sets MiniDisc technology apart is its editable disc. Audio files are stored on the disc in 11.6 millisecond units. By the same token, files deleted from the MiniDisc create additional space for new material to be recorded.
  
  

Function

• Known for its recordable feature, the MiniDisc uses rewritable magneto-optical technology to apply the force of a laser to write a data pattern on what's known as its magnetic recording layer. This fundamental process makes it possible for multiple tracks so music no longer needs to be stored as a single file. Gap-less playback of music is possible a result of how data files are stored on the MiniDisc, further maximizing its potential for consumer appeal.