Specifications
CD-i FAQ 2000 Edition Revised February 21, 2001
Latest version and more CD-i info: http://www.icdia.org
7
1. The CD-i system
1.1 What is CD-i?
CD-i is short for Compact Disc Interactive. It is an interactive multimedia system combining
moving and still video, audio and program content on a compact disc, which can be played back
in a dedicated CD-i player. A CD-i player is a stand-alone device, consiting of a CPU, memory
and an integrated operating system. It operates on its own and it can be connected to a standard
TV-set for displaying pictures and sound, and optionally to a stereo-system. All system
interactivity is generated by positioning a cursor using an X/Y pointing device (such as a remote
control with a pointing device or a mouse), and clicking options using one of the two provided
action buttons.
1.2 Who invented CD-i?
CD-i was jointly developed by Philips Electronics NV and Sony Corporation in the mid 80s.
Together, both companies defined CD-i's basic specifications in what is know as the Green Book.
They decided to use the well-tested OS-9 operating system from Microware Systems
Corporation, which was designed for embedded, real-time applications. Microware was also
heavily involved in the CD-i design process. Eventually, Philips took the biggest part in the
development process, being responsible for at least 90% of CD-i's development.
1.3 Is CD-i propietary?
Developers of CD-i software do not need a license, from a software point-of-view, CD-i is an open
standard. Of course, as with all CD-types, the normal CD-pressing license fees need to be payed,
but this is to be taken care of by the CD pressing plant. Manufacturers of CD-i (compatible)
players need a license from Philips and Microware.
1.4 What is the Green Book
Green Book is the informal name of the Compact Disc Interactive Full Functional Specification, as
laid down by Philips, Sony and Microware. It is named after the green cover of the book, and it is
in line with the other CD-systems which also bear their own "color"-identification (such as red for
CD-Audio, yellow for CD-ROM and white for Video-CD). It sometimes also refered to as FFGB or
Full Functional Green Book. The Green Book consitsts of the CD-i specification and the
Microware OS-9 2.4 Technical Manual. In contrast to other CD-systems such as CD-Audio and
Video-CD, the Green Book not only specifies the disc-format of the system, but also the
playback-device including the required CPU and operating system are extensively specified.
1.5 What versions of the Green Book are available?
In essence, there is only one Green Book. However, some minor additions, changes and fixes
have been applied over the years (as is the case with the original CD-Audio specification!). When
we do not count early "pre-release" versions, the first version of the Green Book is dated
September 1990. The first major revision is the March 1993 edition, which included Chapter 9
(the CD-i Full Motion Video extension). The latest version dates back from March 1994.
1.6 Where can I get a copy of the Green Book?
The Green Book is no longer available in print but only as a digital file on CD-ROM at a price of
US$ 150. Licences and copies of the Green Book are available from Philips System Standards
and Licensing (www.licensing.philips.com). As a hardware or software developer, you can
subscribe to receive all Philips CD standards including updates for a period of 5 years for US$
5000.