Specifications

4.30 Which format to choose for a platform independant
CD−ROM?
A CD−ROM to be read by all systems can only use the plain ISO 9660 format. That means stupid 8+3
filenames from old MS−DOS and without any HFS (Macintosh), Joliet (Microsoft) or RockRidge (newer
Unices) extensions. There is no extension for longer filenames, which could be read by all operating systems.
4.31 Is multi−session for audio tracks possible?
Audio CD−players are only able to deal with audio tracks stored in the first session. In other words, you
cannot add audio tracks using subsequent sessions. However, writing data tracks into the second session
effectively hides them from audio CD−players. This way you prevent having an silent track on your mixed
mode CD (audio and data mixed).
4.32 What hardware resources do I need? Is an old Pentium
enough?
An answer depends on your wishes. If you need a reason to buy a new computer, here is the answer from the
international association of computer manufactures: Whatever you plan to do, you need a processor with 800
Mhz. Because it won't fit into your existing motherboard, you need a new motherboard, too. The easiest
solution is just to buy the typical complete offer as seen in advertisements on TV. Please ignore the rest of
this section.
Now the case if you just want a rational answer: I wrote several CD−ROMs sucessfully using a "486" with 66
Mhz. Although MS does not consider them to be PCs anymore, but recommends to run a CE version on them
(seen on the CeBIT), Linux runs even fine on the predecessors of the Pentium and is even able to write CDs.
You can easily find out if the power of your hardware is sufficient for writing CD−ROMs by testing it out.
Just add the command line switch −dummy when executing cdrecord and the laser will be kept off. Watch the
burning process.
5.Troubleshooting
Always remember, that you can still use corrupt CD−ROMs as coasters. :−)
CD−Writing HOWTO
4.30 Which format to choose for a platform independant CD−ROM? 32