Primary is the stage attached to the tank, HP (high pressure) Secondary, LP (low pressure) the one(s) you put in your mouth. The octopus is an extra secondary, as backup, or to share.

The octopus should have a plug or shroud, to keep it free of debris.

It’s a good idea to give it a short purge before diving, to test.

The octopus (usually but not always) yellow is the one to share 1st, and if that fails, buddy breathe with your own.

The octopus should be held by a clip on your BCD, or in the absence of a hose clip, tucked in a shoulder strap making a loop. Free octopuses are not a good idea for several reasons, like debris, you can’t see if it’s open or bubbling, it can snag, etc.

Ok, you may be facing disk rot. Disk rot is much more prevalent on self recorded that commercial recordings.

ddrescue is probably your best bet.There are other options, but I’ve always had the best results with ddrescue. There is no way to fix disk rot.

Quick question, are these burned blank disks, or purchased commercial disks?

The Lazarus Project

ddrescue.

Also, maybe look for a CD lens cleaner.

May be hard to find nowadays. An alternative is gently clean the lens with a Qtip slightly moist with distilled water, and dried with the other, dry end.

Franklin mint is one of those TV advertisers that sell trinkets for a fortune, no? Has any of their offerings ever risen in value?

Had a bishop singing outside my window the other day. He managed to snare a 12 yr. old choirboy.