Watch as CDs overcome skips in cars in this classic BBC clip.

      **1984: A CD Player for Your CAR?! | Tomorrow's World | Retro Tech | BBC Archive**

      The BBC has unearthed another nostalgic clip showcasing the remarkable technological advancements of recent decades.

      Aired in 1984 on Tomorrow's World — the BBC’s premier technology program at the time — host Peter Macann begins by clearly articulating the phrase "digital compact disc player," indicating that many viewers may have been hearing about such a device for the first time, which is likely true.

      “It utilizes a laser beam to read the musical data from the record,” Macann explains, seemingly neglecting that he is referring to a disc, not a conventional vinyl record.

      The host notes how eager manufacturers are to enhance the portability of the technology, while also mentioning that even the slightest vibrations can lead to music skipping. He demonstrates this by striking the CD player against a hard surface, and indeed, the music begins to skip dramatically.

      The footage then transitions to an iconic 1980s computer animation that illustrates how the CD player's laser reads the disc's data and explains the reasons for skipping during disturbances.

      To resolve this issue, manufacturers incorporated a new circuit into the device that tracks the laser’s position while a disc plays. If a vibration causes the laser to shift, the circuit ensures it stays properly aligned, facilitating uninterrupted playback.

      Next, the presenter showcases a CD player that may not appear particularly portable but is indeed designed for portability, demonstrating the technology in real time. When he shakes the device, the music continues to play smoothly (viewers may notice he doesn't jostle it as he did previously).

      In conclusion, Macann hops into a Jaguar to conduct a thorough test. After a brief moment of accidentally reversing (the broadcast was live, so no edits were made), he confidently finds the forward gear and drives over several speed bumps. The technology performs flawlessly, leaving viewers in awe of a CD player resilient enough to handle speed bumps, potholes, and even his grandfather’s questionable driving — all without missing a beat.

      ---

      Not long ago, Trevor relocated from one tea-loving island nation that drives on the left (Britain) to another (Japan)...

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