This technology combines magnetic and optical principles for data storage. A laser heats a small area on the disc surface, allowing a magnetic field to write data. Reading data involves a lower-powered laser detecting the magnetic polarization of the disc surface. This method once offered a compelling blend of high capacity and rewritability, distinguishing it from read-only optical media like CDs and write-once media like WORM discs. It was frequently used for archiving and backup due to its perceived longevity and data integrity.
Offering a balance between capacity and rewritability, this approach addressed the limitations of earlier optical storage technologies. Its perceived robustness and resistance to environmental factors made it appealing for long-term storage, particularly in professional settings where data preservation was paramount. While superseded by newer technologies like flash memory and hard disk drives, its role in the evolution of data storage is significant. Its influence can be seen in the ongoing pursuit of durable, high-capacity storage solutions.
