The following Apple CD-ROM players will correctly load a 3.5 inch CD-ROM:
- PowerCD
- AppleCD 300e Plus
- AppleCD 300i Plus
- AppleCD 600e
- AppleCD 600i
The following Apple CD-ROM players cannot play 3.5 inch CD-ROMs:
- AppleCD SC
- AppleCD SC Plus
- AppleCD 300
- AppleCD 300i
In general, the caddy-based CD-ROM drives, such as the original AppleCD SC, cannot play a 3.5 inch CD-ROM. This is because the caddy is not designed to hold a 3.5 inch CD-ROM in the correct position. Third-party companies make adaptors that attach to 3.5 inch CD-ROM discs making them compatible with standard size disc players. Though untested and unsupported by Apple, these devices may work in a caddy loaded CD-ROM drive.
The tray-loading CD-ROM drives, such as the AppleCD 300e Plus, have an indentation in the tray, which can hold a 3.5 inch CD-ROM in place.
The PowerCD has neither a caddy, nor a tray. It allows you to place a 3.5 inch CD-ROM directly onto the drive's spindle.