FIELD: data storage systems.
SUBSTANCE: method for recording and retrieving optically readable data involves using a recording medium which includes a recording layer which contains an optically active substance, capable of inducing change in carrier properties in the presence of optical radiation having a first characteristic, e.g., first optical frequency, and wherein variation of properties can be suppressed by optical radiation having a second characteristic, e.g., second optical frequency. During recording, the recording medium region is irradiated with the first optical radiation beam having a first characteristic, wherein the beam has sufficient intensity in the central portion of the irradiated region and sufficient duration to cause optically induced change in the properties of the recording medium. Simultaneously, the area of the recording medium is irradiated with a second optical radiation beam having a second characteristic, wherein the second beam has a local intensity minimum in the central portion of the irradiated region and a local intensity maximum in at least one portion of the irradiated region, adjacent to central portion, which is sufficient to suppress optically induced change in properties of recording medium.
EFFECT: method and system for optical data storage are disclosed.
25 cl, 11 dwg
