Review and Analysis of Optical Recording Media

Abstract

Optical data storage systems employing large varieties of different recording materials have been investigated in great detail over the last few years. In this paper, we present a review of most of the known classes of optical recording media and describe a procedure for identifying materials with potential interest for specific applications. To provide a context for demonstrating this point, we pick as an example an optical disc recording and playback system. We feel the most useful application of this type of analysis is to help eliminate those materials from consideration which are unlikely to meet system requirements.