Process of formatting data into the final image that will appear on the disc

Process to convert the data representing an audio or a CD-ROM application into the data to be stored on the CD. For PC CD-ROM s it will involve adding the ISO 9660 file structure data. Also refers to creating a disc image for a DVD-Video, DVD-Audio or DVD-ROM title, where the file system is Micro UDF.

The process where the digital data is prepared to be sent to the CD manufacturer for mastering and replication. The data is assembled and arranged as it should appear on the CD-ROM or audio CD, including the file structure (such as ISO 9660 or Mac HFS).

The process by which information is prepared for mastering on optical discs. This includes formatting the data, inverting the files for indexing, and other technical tasks. The stages in producing CD-ROM discs consist of data preparation, pre-mastering to master tape, mastering to master CD-ROM disc, and disc replication. (7/96)