James Russell Credit: invent.org

The optical digital recording and playback processes and materials were invented in 1965, by James T. Russell.

Russell was upset by the wear and tear of his vinyl phonograph records.He wanted to invent something that could be used over again and not wore out. Russell invented a method of recording onto a photosensitive platter. He used a laser to read the patterns of light and dark, which were converted by computer into an electronic signal audible or visible.

Russell had 22 patents for different parts of his system. Companies were afraid at first that his invention would not make money. He proved them wrong and the disc is sold world wide.