A CDI file is a disc image—a sector-by-sector copy of the data stored on a physical disc. However, unlike a standard ISO file (which typically handles data tracks only), CDI files are capable of storing . This was crucial for the Dreamcast, as many of its games used a specific layout involving an audio track (often containing a warning message if played in a CD player) followed by a data track containing the game code.
This comprehensive guide explores what CDI files are, how they bypass the console's security features, and how they compare to alternative formats like GDI and CHD. Understanding the Formats: GD-ROM vs. CD-ROM