The invention relates to an optical data carrier which combines a CD layer
with at least one further format, such as a DVD layer for example. If a
hybrid data carrier of this kind is to be produced in a thickness of less
than 1.7 mm, and preferably in a thickness of 1.5 mm or less, then, seen
from the surface which is to be read from, the CD layer will normally be
situated at a depth of considerably less than 1.1 mm, and the CD
substrate therefore has to be thinned down. The quality of the reading
signals obtained is increased by increasing the length of the optically
readable structures of the CD layer in comparison with the values which
are usual in this case. Because of the difficulties which certain CD
players have in focussing when the substrates are thin, the refractive
index of the disc material used is reduced from the figure for
polycarbonate, at least in the case of the CD substrate, the recommended
range being between 1.40 and 1.55. The compatibility of the CD layer of a
hybrid disc according to the invention with different players may be
further increased by widening its readable structures in comparison with
normal values and thus by making them more than 500 nm wide.