Advanced Materials · 1995 · 157 citations · 10 references
Natural SciencesMaterials EngineeringMaterials ScienceOptical MaterialsOpticsPhotonicsData Storage SystemsLaser Host MaterialsOptical Properties Of SolidsOptoelectronic MaterialsPhotonic MaterialsStorage TechnologyDigital Data StorageDye LasersLimitsOptical Data Storage
Optical data storage promises high density, low energy consumption, ruggedness, and high data rates, yet the only proven photonic medium is spectral hole burning. The technique uses spectral hole burning in solid matrices with specific materials and laser technology, and the paper outlines its features, prospects, and commercial development requirements. A magnified image of the storage medium is provided.
Optical data storage offers the potential advantages of high storage densities, fewer mechanical problems, low reading and writing energies, ruggedness, and higher data rates. Currently, the only true photonic optical storage medium is the spectral hole burning scheme. The features of the technique are presented, the materials (e.g. see figure) and necessary laser technology presented, and a view is given of the prospects and requirements for future commercial development. magnified image
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