A CD Audio file (.cda) contains information for indexing a track on an audio CD. It indicates where an audio track begins and ends on a disc. The file itself has no audio information.
Origin
The .cda file is generated when an audio CD is viewed in the Microsoft Windows operating system. When the disc is inserted into the computer's disc drive, a .cda file is generated for each track on the CD.
File Association
A computer will automatically associate the file with an audio track. This allows for it to be played in media player software.
Converting
CD Audio files cannot be copied to MP3 players or other portable devices unless they are converted to another format. Programs such as Windows Media Player, iTunes and Winamp can convert the audio files to other formats.
Creation
Other types of audio files such as MP3, WMA and WAV can be burned to a traditional audio CD that creates .cda files when played on PC.
Playback
A disc created with .cda files can be played on traditional CD players and in most car stereo systems.
Tags: audio files, audio track, file generated
