Copyright OSTA 2001
All rights reserved.

  Universal Disk Format

  MPV

 

MultiRead

MultiRead Specification
MultiRead Test Plan
MultiRead 2 Specification
MultiRead 2 Test Plan

  MultiPlay

MultiAudio

Technical Information


OSTA brought about an important computer industry consensus in ratifying the MultiRead specification, a consensus in favor of the widest possible compatibility of CD and DVD media and drives.

The MultiRead specification defines the parameters necessary for computer-connected optical devices to be capable of reading discs created in CD formats. Any optical device adhering to the specification is capable of reading audio CD, CD-ROM, CD-R and CD-RW discs. Any type of CD or DVD drive can be made to comply with the specification.

Consistent with OSTA's vision of assuring broad compatibility for the user, a test plan has been created so manufacturers can demonstrate that they have complied with the new specification. A MultiRead logo program identifies compliant products, enabling end users to gain assurance of compatibility at the retail level.

The MultiRead program creates a clear mechanism for the user to identify CD and DVD drives that can read the billions of Audio CD, CD-ROM, CD-Recordable (CD-R) and CD-ReWritable (CD-RW) discs. The MultiRead feature marks a milestone in the migration path from the world of CD into the DVD domain by protecting computer users' investment in software.

Manufacturer CD-ROM CD-RW DVD-ROM
Actima    
Aopen Inc.    
Behavior Technology    
Computer    
DVS    
Hewlett-Packard
Hitachi    
KME    
LG Electronics
Lite-On
MKE  
Mitsumi    
NEC
Pan-International    
Philips    
Pioneer    
Ricoh    
Samsung    
Sony
TEAC    
Toshiba  
  Compliance demonstrated
  MultiRead logo license granted