Abstract: Methods and apparatus for extracting data from an optical analysis disc such as a bio-disc are disclosed. The process of capturing the data is controlled by a single computer. In one embodiment, a template is provided in determining the location of desired sample regions. In another embodiment, one or more ditches are obliterated on the disc in determining the location of the desired samples. In one embodiment, a user enters measured distances to a control program to indicate the sample region location. The user may specify the sample rate. The user may also specify the number of capture regions. In one embodiment, capture regions are separated by radial lines. The head of a disc drive may be maintained at a constant radial distance. This distance is maintained to cause the disc to act as a centrifuge at a desired speed.