The Data Discman (Japanese: データ ディスクマン, Hepburn: Dēta Disikuman) is an electronic book player developed and marketed by Sony Corporation, first introduced to Western markets in late 1991 or early 1992.[1] The device targeted U.S. college students and international travelers but achieved limited commercial success outside Japan. In Japan, it was positioned as part of Sony’s broader "Discman" brand, originally used for portable CD players such as the D-50 released in 1984.[2]
The Data Discman was designed for quick access to reference material stored on pre-recorded optical discs. Search terms could be entered via a small QWERTY-style keyboard, with selection performed using dedicated "Yes" and "No" buttons.[citation needed]
Most models featured:
Early versions could not play audio files but could play audio CDs, with content limited to pre-recorded encyclopedias, dictionaries, and novels, often created using the Sony Electronic Book Authoring System (SEBAS).[3]
The earliest western model, the DD-1EX, was released in 1991 and only played mini-CD audio (not MP3 data files) in addition to the EBG titles and is now part of the permanent collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.[4] The DD-1 was the earlier Japanese model in 1990. This model can use a bare Mini CD disc or one in a caddy. The disc is easily removed from the caddy. It takes 6 off AA cells in a clip on pack, or optionally a rechargeable pack.
Released in 1992 or 1993, the DD-10EX added the ability to play audio files. In the United Kingdom, it shipped with two discs:
A DD-10EX was featured in the The Book and Beyond: Electronic Publishing and the Art of the Book exhibition at the Victoria and Albert Museum from April to October 1995. The event also showcased the Library of the Future CD-ROM, designed specifically for the Data Discman and published in 1993.[5]
The DD-8 featured a slimmer, rectangular form factor resembling later e-book readers like the Amazon Kindle, departing from the clamshell style used by the DD-1EX and DD-10EX.
This was the last model, sold up to 2000.
This model has colour and extended authoring.
The Sega Saturn has an EBG operator disc option. Then the Sony EBG titles (removed from caddy) can be played.
While the Data Discman was technologically advanced for its time, high production costs, bulky form factor, and the limited availability of compatible media restricted its global adoption. It remains a notable example of early portable electronic reading technology.
