IMAGE STORAGE AND OPTICAL READOUT IN A ZnS DEVICE

Abstract

The operation of an image storage panel, which is read in by means of optical absorption and read out in visible light by means of the Pockels electro-optic effect, has been demonstrated. The sensing, storing, and readout medium consists of a single-crystal film of cubic ZnS coated with a blocking contact. Performance characteristics observed to date on devices with areas between 1 and 2 cm2 are resolution of 85 line pairs/mm, continuous visible readout for 1 h, and image storage for up to 100 h. The readin sensitivity to achieve a 2:1 contrast ratio in readout is 20 erg/cm2.