Protective cartridge for optical discs

A high speed data storage and retrieval system includes a storage module, a reader and a changer apparatus. A protective cartridge is provided for storing, protecting and transporting an optical disc enclosed therein. The storage module includes pins for insertion into corresponding holes in one surface of the cartridge during storage. During transport the changer apparatus having electromagnetic means grips the cartridge by spring clips attached to the cartridge. A window cut in the side of the protective cartridge effects readability of the disc enclosed therein without removing the disc from the cartridge during the reading operation. The cartridge also includes a set of holes in another surface of the cartridge for receiving a corresponding set of pins when the enclosed optical disc is placed in the read position.