ISSN:
1089-7550
Source:
AIP Digital Archive
Topics:
Physics
Notes:
At the present time, the two major approaches to reversible optical data storage are based on either the magneto-optic effect in rare-earth–transition-metal alloys, or on the amorphous-to-crystalline phase transition in a variety of tellurium-based materials. The phase transition approach is attractive because of the relatively large optical read-signal modulation which results. However, careful optimization of these materials is required to satisfy all of the requirements of data retention, fast erasure and a high number of record/erase cycles. The data retention characteristics and cyclability of magneto-optic storage media are not considered to be critical issues. However, the inherently small magnitude of the magneto-optic effect has led, historically, to relatively limited values for playback signal to noise ratio. Antireflective thin-film structures can be used to provide enhancements to the signal to noise ratio of magneto-optic media. The underlying principles and effect of such approaches to the design of magneto-optic media will be reviewed.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.334916
Permalink
