Volume holographic storage demonstrator based on phase-coded multiplexing

Abstract

We present the design and realization of a compact volume holographic memory based on phase-coded multiplexing. Due to the use of nonmechanical reference beam changes in this multiplexing technique, rapid access of the stored data pages is achieved. Our system can reach a maximum storage capacity up to 480 data pages with a resolution of 640/spl times/480 pixels in a single interaction region of a photorefractive LiNbO/sub 3/ crystal. We present the implementation of the system and first experimental results of both, high-resolution analog image storage and digital data storage. The storage of 180 data pages is demonstrated as well as the application of the system to real-time optical image processing.