What Is CD-RW Extraction?

CD-RW discs are rewritable optical media that can contain data, audio or other content. Their recording characteristics differ from pressed CDs and CD-Rs.

CD-RW characteristics

CD-RW should be identified separately from CD-ROM and CD-R because the medium and recording history can differ.

Rewritable media

Read the source without modifying it and identify its filesystem, sessions and visible contents.

Filesystem identification

For important archives, retain an appropriate image or other source representation in addition to extracted files.

Extraction

File timestamps and directory information can be useful evidence of how the disc was used and should be retained where technically available.

Verification

Verify file counts, sizes, checksums and any unreadable areas.

Reference guidance: This article is informed by optical-media preservation guidance from the U.S. National Archives and the Library of Congress Recommended Formats Statement. Where appropriate, the article distinguishes preservation guidance from practical extraction procedures.