Optical disks become erasable

Article Abstract:

Commercial systems with erasable optical disks offer an alternative to current storage technology. The new magneto-optic technology is about to be introduced. Such disks store up to 1000 times as much information in the same space as current disks, and are more portable. The technology works with a thin film of heat-sensitive magnetic material that has multiple domains. A blank disk has all domains with a vertical magnetic orientation of north-pole down. The orientation, at room temperature, is difficult to switch. However, by using a laser to heat a tiny spot and a magnet, the orientation can be switched to north-pole up. Heating lowers the coercive force, which returns as the temperature falls after the writing or erasing step. The technology has become practical as a result of materials developments. Although disks are now available, there is still work to be done and problems to be solved before drives are available to the customer.

Memory, Disk drives, Lasers, Optical disk drives, Memory management, CD-RW drives, Laser, Storage Capacity, Erasable Optical Disk Drive, Optical Disk Drive

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Magnetic Disks: Storage Densities on the Rise

Article Abstract:

Storage densities for magnetic disks are increasing due to new materials and recording techniques. Densities may be increased up to five times using improved ferric oxide recording materials. Sputtering is a technique used in producing thin film ferric oxide. Replacing ferric oxide with metallic coatings is also being explored. Reduction in self-demagnetization and densities twenty to thirty times that achieved now are possible using vertical recording techniques. Creating media with vertical magnetic orientation is difficult. Magnetooptical recording is also being studied. This method has densities like an optical disk but is fully erasable. A suitable material for magnetooptical recording has been difficult to find. Diagrams illustrate all of the technologies and an insert explains the basics of magnetic disk recording.

Computer storage devices, Data storage media, Disk Storage, Increase, Magnetic Disks, Magneto-optical disk drive, Perpendicular Recording, Storage Density

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Making compact disks interactive

Article Abstract:

A new product, compact disk interactive (CD-I), promises much for consumer electronics. A CD-I player can produce excellent digital sound; CD-I players can also manage still and motion images. The basis for CD-I is laser optical technology. This technology is also the basis of related technologies: digital audio; compact-disk read-only memory; and videodisc. Industry observers project at least a $1 billion industry five years after CD-I's introduction.

Computer and Office Equipment, Magnetic and optical recording media, Consumer electronics, Optical Memory, Outlook, technical, CD-Interactive

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