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Glossary
ATRAC3
ATRAC3, which stands for Adaptive Transform Acoustic Coding3, is audio compression
technology that satisfies the demand for high sound quality and high compression rates.
The ATRAC3 compression rate is approximately 10 times higher than that of the Audio
CD, resulting an increased data capacity for the media.
“Check-In /Check-Out”
Check-out is to transfer music files from a personal computer to an external device/media
(such as a Network Walkman). Returning checked-out music files to the same computer is
to check in. (You cannot move checked-out music files to another computer.)
You can check out a music file, check it back in, and then check it out again an infinite
number of times. The SDMI rules provide that up to four copies of a music file can be
checked out at one time. OpenMG employs a method whereby three copies of a song can
be checked out simultaneously, while the fourth copy is maintained as a master on your PC.
Electronic Music Distribution (EMD) service
EMD is a website that distributes music files which are available for purchase.
MP3
MP3, which stands for MPEG-1 Audio Layer3, is a standard for audio file compression
determined by the Motion Picture Experts Group, an ISO (International Organization for
Standardization) working group. It enables compression of audio files to about 1/10 of the
data size of a standard compact disc. Since the MP3 encoding algorithm is disclosed, there
are various encoders/decoders that are compliant with this standard, including freeware that
is available for no charge. The MP3 standard is therefore widely used in the computer field.
Music Drive
Music Drive is a music database for managing audio data on a computer. In Music Drive,
audio files can be managed along with such information as artist names, track names, and
CD jacket images, or can be combined and categorized in different playlists.
OpenMG
Copyright protection technology for the import and management of musical content from
distribution services or CDs. By using software that are compliant with OpenMG, audio
contents can be encrypted before storage on a hard disk drive to allow playback of those
audio files on that computer. OpenMG also prevents the unauthorized distribution of the
contents via the Internet or other networks.
Playlist
A playlist is like a container that can be used to hold and categorize files stored in Music
Drive. For example, by making a “jazz” playlist and then putting your favorite jazz tracks
into the playlist, you can play all of the tracks repeatedly or check them all out at the same
time.