| Abstract: | The principle of beam-addressed holographic memories are outlined and existing data memories are considered in relation to future holographic memories. The next objective is to expand the capacity to the gigabyte region while maintaining read—write access times of about 100 μs. In view of the limitations imposed by conventional storage techniques, two basic approaches to fast gigabyte memories are discussed. On reasonable approach is to design modular systems comprising a number of storage modules of variable capacity. The other is to reach the gigabyte region by using multiple exposure techniques. Besides block-organized memories, bit-organized and byte-organized holographic memories with transported storage media are considered as possible alternatives to conventional memories with magnetic tapes, discs, and drums. |
