Reference number: CH000676

How can I read a Macintosh CD on a PC?

Question:

How can I read a Macintosh CD on a PC?

Answer:

The PC and Macintosh use different standards and file systems to store the information on their computer. Users attempting to read Macintosh CDs in their PC computer or vice versa will encounter errors reading the CD unless it is a hybrid CD.

When attempting to read a Macintosh CD on a PC you may encounter any of the below issues.

1. Error message: "A device connected to the system doesn't work correctly".
2. Error message: "Label is not for this file system".
3. The CD opens but is empty.
4. Other error related to the inability to read the CD.

If you wish to access the data you will need to install an emulator that tricks the computer into thinking it supports the alternative file system. Below are some different software programs that will make this possible.

• MacDisk - Capable of reading all Apple Macintosh disks on PC computers. In addition, the company offers other solutions such as the ability to create Macintosh CD-ROM images on your PC computer.
• TransMac - Enables PC users to read all Apple Macintosh disks on their computer.

Additional information:

• Additional information and related links to Apple Macintosh's CD HFS standard can be found on our HFS definition.
• Additional information and related links to PC and IBM compatible CD standard can be found on our ISO 9660 definition.