Method and apparatus for scanning the recording surface of a rotating disc-shaped record carrier

A method of scanning a plurality n (n.gtoreq.2) of successive tracks for recording information on the surface of a rotating disc-shaped record carrier, such tracks having a predetermined pitch distance there-between, such method comprising directing a beam of radiation from an optical source to form a scanning spot on the record carrier and translating such spot in a forward radial direction thereon during rotation of the record carrier;

• such method being characterized in that it further comprises the steps of:
• (a) deflecting said beam so as to move said scanning spot a first predetermined distance in said forward radial direction on said record carrier for a period of time during a revolution thereof so as to scan a part of a track thereon;
• (b) deflecting said beam so as to move said scanning spot in a backward radial direction on said record carrier a second predetermined distance less than said first distance, thereby completing one period of reciprocating motion of said scanning spot during forward radial translation thereof, such period corresponding to "p" complete revolutions (p.gtoreq.1) of said record carrier, said second distance being such that upon completion of one period of said reciprocating motion the scanning spot is positioned on a next succeeding track on said recording carrier;
• (c) repeating steps (a) and (b) so as to successively scan a part of each of said n tracks, said first and second distance being such that upon completing such scanning the scanning spot is then positioned on a next succeeding part of the initially scanned track;
• and
• (d) repeating steps (a)-(c) to successively scan a next succeeding part of all of said n tracks.