from
The Free On-line Dictionary of Computing (8 July 2008)
constant angular velocity
<storage> (CAV) A {disk} driving scheme in which the {angular
velocity} of the disk is kept constant. This means that the
{linear velocity} of the disk be larger when the reading or
writing the outer tracks. The disadvantage of this technique
is that the read/write speed varies from track to track.
However, as mechanical stability puts an upper limit on the
angular velocity (and not the linear velocity) this allows the
full potential of the drive is used.
(1998-03-27)