This text describes all the system aspects of CD-ROM drive design, discussing all the building blocks from optics to host interface. The various subsystems of CD-ROM drives and their functions are described separately and all relevant aspects are covered, from mechanical, optical and electrical to control and information processing. In addition, new aspects relating to high- and very high-speed drives are introduced and discussed. All these topics, as well as those relating to drive benchmarking and performance, combine to make this book a useful contribution to the field. Although dedicated to the CD-ROM system, the book could also be used as a reference for other compact disc systems such as CD-Recordable or Digital Versatile Disc (DVD). Containing more than 50 figures and a comprehensive list of references, the book may be useful as a resource for specialists in the field and designers of CD-ROM drives. It should also appeal to students interested in combined mechatronics subjects.