jib@prism.TMC.COM (02/17/90)
RE: CD-ROM prices vs. 3.5 disks
Just thought I'd add some info. I am responsible for producing law books
on CD-ROM and since we also do software on 3.5" disks (for IBMs, but the
cost is the same) I thought I'd give you and idea of the relatlive costs.
3.5" disks are duplicated at a duplicator (not in-house, even at Apple).
To the raw diskette price you must add duplicator charges, printing of
label, etc. Average cost $2-$3 in small quantities (100 - a few 1000).
CD-ROM disks are duplicated at a vendor too, but the label is printed on
the disk as they are produced. Average cost is $2 each including printing
and a jewel box. If distributed without jewel box (as Apple does in
DEVELOP) the cost drops to $1 to $1.50 each. There is a one time setup
charge for the disc (about $2000) but if spread accross a 1000 discs it
represents another $2 each. Total cost $2+1 = about $3. The CD can hold
600 million characters. A 3.5 can hold 800K. If one 3.5 is enough the
costs are similar, but if it takes more than one 3.5, then CD is
definitely cheaper.
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Jim Block jib@prism.TMC.COM
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