Fiber-coupled writing and reading in magneto-optical media

Area of Science:

• Optoelectronics
• Materials Science
• Data Storage Technologies

Background:

• Magneto-optical (MO) disk media utilize the Curie point for data writing and the Kerr effect for data reading.
• Traditional MO signal detection methods can be sensitive to environmental factors and complex in setup.
• Developing robust and efficient signal processing techniques is crucial for advancing MO data storage.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a novel fiber optic system for enhanced Curie point writing and Kerr signal reading in magneto-optical disk media.
• To demonstrate the stability and sensitivity of the proposed system against external disturbances.
• To provide a simple, flexible, and remotely settable solution for MO device signal processing.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a flint glass single-mode fiber to connect the optical source (laser diode)-detector assembly with the magneto-optical medium.
• Employed the fiber optic link for both thermal writing (Curie point) and optical reading (Kerr signal) processes.
• Characterized the Kerr signal detection sensitivity and stability under simulated external disturbances (stress, deformation).

Main Results:

• The flint glass single-mode fiber successfully facilitated both Curie point writing and Kerr signal reading.
• The Kerr signal was detected with high sensitivity and remarkable stability, even when the fiber experienced stress or deformation.
• The fiber optic approach proved to be a simple, flexible, lightweight, and movable solution.

Conclusions:

• A flint glass single-mode fiber optic system offers a highly effective and stable method for signal processing in magneto-optical devices.
• This technique simplifies the complex requirements of MO data writing and reading, enhancing practicality.
• The system's robustness and remote settability make it a promising advancement for magneto-optical data storage applications.