miniCD

A miniCD, also known as an 8 cm CD, is a compact version of the Compact Disc that uses the same optical technology but in a smaller diameter. It is designed to hold data or audio in a shorter, more portable format.

The disc typically measures 8 centimeters in diameter and shares the same laser and encoding methods as standard CDs. Because of its reduced area, the data capacity is lower than a full-size CD. Data versions commonly offer roughly 170 to 185 megabytes of storage, while audio versions can hold about 20 to 25 minutes of music, depending on the encoding and disc design.

Formats and compatibility vary. MiniCDs can be produced as CD-ROMs for data, CD-DA for audio, or other CD formats supported by the Yellow, Red, or White Book specifications. Not all CD players or drives are able to read eight-centimeter discs, and some players require a tray or mechanism designed to accommodate the smaller disc. In practice, reading compatibility depends on the device’s hardware and firmware.

History and usage. MiniCDs gained popularity in the 1990s as a compact option for software demos, promotional media, and music singles. They offered a cheaper, lighter alternative for distributing small amounts of content or audio. Over time, their use declined as storage needs grew and alternatives such as flash memory and smaller digital distribution became prevalent.

See also: CD, CD-ROM, CD-DA, 8 cm disc.