We have been asked whether there is anything that can be done about scratched CDs and CD-ROMs. The answer is yes. There is a paste called CD Magic that treats scratches on the transparent coating that can cause misreading of the data. Scratches are not completely removed, but a small amount of the transparent layer is removed so that the laser can make it through the coating to read the data encoded underneath. The product also works with laser disks and DVD disks.
The product sells for $16.95 by mail and is also available at some computer stores.
[Contact: CD Magic, telephone 800-856-2886; URL www.cdfix.com].