Regular molecular nano-dot patterns for RW-data storage in the optical near field

In this contribution further steps to realize our concept of optical data storage in molecular nano-dots as storage bits are reported. A preparation method has been developed successfully to achieve regular nano-dot patterns of high density. This is considered a breakthrough because regularity is prerequisite for the use of nano-dots in storage media. Optical imaging of dot patterns and individual writing/reading access is realized by confocal and near-field optical microscopy (fluorescence detection mode). Examples for regular patterns at different dot densities are shown. Perspectives towards terabit per square inch density are outlined.