An autorun CD menu interface (sometimes referred to as an autoplay CD menu interface) is a graphical user interface that is automatically shown when a user inserts a CD in a drive. The menu that is shown gives the user several different options on what to do with the contents of the CD. From the menu the user can for example start installations, run programs, open documents, play movies etc.

There is lot of benefits using an autorun CD menu interface to present information on a CD. Below we list 5 good reasons why you should use an autorun CD menu interface:

1. Easier for users to locate programs and documents on a CD

It is easier for your customers to locate files on your CD, for example installation programs, applications, documents, movies, pictures etc. By presenting buttons or hyperlinks to the user he/she only need to click on them to open files. For users who are not so used with computers this is very helpful. Also experienced users prefer this way to open files because it saves time.

2. Starts automatically

An autorun CD menu interface uses the AutoRun technology in Windows which means that the menu interface is shown automatically on the screen when the CD is inserted in the drive. So the user do not need to search for a file to start on the CD, everything is handled automatically. If you have lot of files in the root folder of the CD it can be difficult for the user to know which file to start, but the AutoRun technology in Windows solves this in an easy way.

3. Gives a professional first impression

First impression is always important. By creating a professional-looking menu interface, with graphics, movies etc., you will give your users a good first impression of your product and of your company. The menu interface is also a good place, and an opportunity, to strengthen your company's graphical profile (expose company and product logos etc.).

4. You can protect information

Sometimes you only want some specific persons or companies to access the contents of the CD. By using an autorun CD menu creator software that handles encryption and passwords you can protect the contents of the CD. Only allowed users can then access the information.

5. You can include information about other products

The menu is a good place to include information about other products you sell. You can for example allow users to open PDF files or movies that give information about your other products. The CD menu is also a good place to let your users test trial versions of your software.

Software that creates autorun CD menu interfaces

There exists lot of software on the market that can create autorun CD menu interfaces. They all utilize the Windows AutoRun technology (read more here: http://www.samlogic.net/articles/autorun.htm ) to show the menu interface automatically, but the way to create the menu interface can differ. Also the functions that can be used can be very different. CD Menu Creator from SamLogic is an example of such software (read more about CD-Menu Creator here: http://www.samlogic.net/cd-menu-creator/cd-menu-creator.htm ).

Works also with a DVD

The technology that opens a menu interface automatically on a CD will also work with a DVD. So if your information can not fit on a CD you can put it on a DVD instead. The DVD must be burnt as a data DVD to make it function.