Home > MD Data

The technology provided 140 MB of data storage, but it was slow and expensive. Also, data drives can only read or write audio MDs when set in "play" mode, which, however, does not provide computer access to the data.

MD Data appeared in products such as MD still camera and MD document scanner. MD Data was also used in the late 1990s in 4- and 8-track multitrack recording decks. Meant as a step up from the popular 4-track cassette-based studios, these recorders enjoyed a brief prominence before they were replaced by relatively affordable -- and far more flexible -- direct-to-hard drive recording on Windows and Macintosh based computers. The format has always been hampered by the lack of an affordable MD-Data drive with which to manipulate and back up data using a PC.

Sony is planning on introducing a high density minidisc in 2004 which can contain more than 1 GB of data or music.