Simplest way to create a database symbol I'm trying to model a database symbol like this



The only way I currently know how to do this is by starting with a flat cylinder and repeatedly extruding and scaling. 

extrude
scale Z
scale .9
extrude
scale Z
scale 1.1



  

This is very tedious. How else could I accomplish this?
create a single piece out of a cylinder.

To make the edges less sharp read this question:

Weird deformation between large ngon and edge ring





Add an array modifier, and move the relative offset values for the Z axis like this.





Add a mix of glossy and anisotropic shaders.





EDIT Want an even simpler way?

Add a Curve->Circle.





Make it a 2D curve, fill in on both sides, give it some extrusion and bevel:





Add the array modifier, and texture.

For Info on how light a shiny object read this: Make a gold reflective object