# pycdio

> Python interface to the libcdio, the CD Input and Control library

**Wikidata**: [Q110768601](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q110768601)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/pycdio

## Summary
pycdio is a software library that serves as a Python interface to libcdio, the GNU Compact Disc Input and Control Library. It allows developers to write Python programs that can control CD-ROM drives and read CD data. The library is maintained by R. Bernstein and is classified as free software.

## Key Facts
- **Function**: Python interface for the GNU Compact Disc Input and Control Library (libcdio).
- **Latest Release**: Version 2.1.1 (released August 1, 2021).
- **Maintainer**: R. Bernstein.
- **License**: Free software (specific license ID Q27016754).
- **Source Repository**: Hosted on GitHub at `github.com/rocky/pycdio`.
- **Package Name**: Available on PyPI as `pycdio` and in Linux distributions as `python-pycdio` (Arch/openSUSE) or `dev-python/pycdio` (Gentoo).
- **Alias**: Also known as `libcdio-pycdio`.

## FAQs
### Q: What is pycdio used for?
A: pycdio is used to add CD input and control capabilities to Python applications. It wraps the libcdio library, allowing Python scripts to interact with CD-ROM hardware and disc images.

### Q: Who maintains pycdio?
A: The library is maintained by R. Bernstein, who is also listed as the copyright holder.

### Q: Where can I download pycdio?
A: You can download the source code from the GitHub repository at `github.com/rocky/pycdio` or install it via package managers like PyPI (`pycdio`), Nix, or Gentoo's portage.

## Why It Matters
pycdio plays a specific but essential role in the software ecosystem by bridging the gap between the Python programming language and low-level CD-ROM hardware control. Python, a high-level general-purpose language, does not have built-in capabilities for specialized hardware control like CD drives. pycdio solves this by wrapping the standard GNU libcdio library, allowing developers to utilize the extensive features of libcdio—such as reading CD sectors, handling ISO-9660 filesystems, and controlling drive trays—directly within Python scripts.

This library is significant for developers creating cross-platform media applications, backup tools, or system utilities that require direct manipulation of optical media. Its inclusion in major Linux distribution repositories (such as Arch Linux, openSUSE, Gentoo, and Nixpkgs) underscores its status as a standard, reliable tool for the Python community. By providing a free software interface, it ensures that Python developers retain the same level of control over CD hardware as C developers using the underlying libcdio.

## Notable For
-   Being the standard Python wrapper for the **GNU Compact Disc Input and Control Library**.
-   **Cross-platform availability**, featured in multiple Linux distribution repositories including Arch, Gentoo, openSUSE, and Nixpkgs.
-   **Active maintenance**, with version 2.1.1 released in 2021.
-   **Free software** distribution, allowing users to study and modify the code.

## Body
### Technical Overview
pycdio is a software library written in Python that acts as an interface to the **GNU Compact Disc Input and Control Library** (libcdio). Its primary purpose is to enforce the `use` of libcdio capabilities within a Python environment. It is categorized as `free software` and `software library`.

### Version History
The library has undergone several updates, with distinct releases noted in the provided data:
-   **Version 2.0.0**: Released on March 29, 2020.
-   **Version 2.1.0**: Released on August 25, 2019.
-   **Version 2.1.1**: Released on August 1, 2021. This version is marked as the **preferred** release.

### Distribution and Availability
pycdio is widely distributed across various software repositories, making it accessible to users on different systems:
-   **PyPI**: The project is available under the name `pycdio`.
-   **Arch Linux**: Packaged as `python-pycdio`.
-   **Gentoo**: Packaged as `dev-python/pycdio`.
-   **openSUSE**: Packaged as `python-pycdio`.
-   **Nixpkgs**: Available with IDs `python311Packages.pycdio` and `python312Packages.pycdio`.

### Project Administration
-   **Maintainer**: The project is maintained by **R. Bernstein**, who also holds the copyright.
-   **Repository**: The source code is hosted on GitHub under the user `rocky` at `github.com/rocky/pycdio`.
-   **Mailing List**: Developer discussion and archives are located at `lists.gnu.org/archive/html/libcdio-pycdio-devel/`.

## References

1. [Release 2.0.0. 2020](https://github.com/rocky/pycdio/releases/tag/release-2.0.0)
2. [Release 2.1.0. 2019](https://github.com/rocky/pycdio/releases/tag/2.1.0)
3. [Release 2.1.1. 2021](https://github.com/rocky/pycdio/releases/tag/2.1.1)
4. [Source](https://lists.gnu.org/mailman/listinfo/libcdio-pycdio-devel)