constant angular velocity storage
(CAV) A disk driving scheme in which the angular velocity of the disk is kept constant. This means that the linear velocity of the disk be larger when the reading or writing the outer tracks. The disadvantage of this technique is that the read/write speed varies from track to track. However, as mechanical stability puts an upper limit on the angular velocity (and not the linear velocity) this allows the full potential of the drive is used.
(1998-03-27)