access speed for holographic data storage

Holographic information storage and analytic structures can access data much more rapid than present day 2D data storage systems and also several of the incremental next-generation science and equipment (especially fluorescent multi-layer and near-field photosensitive media). Two- dimensional information storage media, such as traditional DVDs and CDs, save and restore information in a serial manner -- one bit at a time. Data storage and processing systems built on holographic technology save and retrieve information with parallel processing -- a whole page of data (possibly a megabyte) at a time. Various hologram data pages are accessed at the same time by using different ray angles and wave phases. The angle and wave phase of a ray of light can be changed much quicker than the mechanical motion required to access different sectors in 2D media. For additional material on this, Holographic Data Storage, Department of Physics may be useful.

Holotech applied science is built on the light pattern formed by interference between two crossing rays of light: a "signal" (or "object") beam that restores data that has been stored inside optical recordable media; and a "reference" ray. The three- dimensional picture created by this light configuration is a "Hologram." Holotech science is an important part of the general field of interferometric applied science. If you are interested, then also see Nanotechnology and Virtual Reality for more.

Linked page Holographic Cubes also has related material.