Dennis G. Howe

Laser marking of thin organic films

Laser marking of thin organic films on reflective substrates involves three general physical processes—optical absorption, heat flow, and mass motion—all of which can proceed on nanosecond time scales. We report observations of pit morphology and discuss the contributions of these processes to pit formation.

Signal-To-Noise Ratio (SNR) For Reliable Data Recording

Due to the nonlinear nature of the thermal optical recording process and the inherent difficulty in tracking and maintaining focus of a submicron-sized light spot, peak-shift values of 40 to 50% are likely to occur during the use of an optical data storage system. Wideband SNR of 30 dB or more will, therefore, be required to attain acceptable phase margin (i.e., reliable operation). Similarly, magnetic recorders working at high linear density will experience peak-shift values of 20 to 30%; wideband SNR from 23 to 29 dB will be required in those machines, depending upon whether or not error correction coding (ECC) is employed.

The Nature Of Intrinsic Error Rates In High-Density Digital Optical Recording

The relationship between errors in digital data retrieved from a storage medium and the fundamental properties of the medium are developed.

Digital Optical Recording In Infrared-Sensitive Organic Polymers

Recording and playback of digital signals in organic media designed to be written with diode lasers and read out with visible or diode lasers is discussed.