"This is a reference book on an exciting topic reaching out to the 21st century's key technologies. The editors, Hans J. Coutal (IBM), Demetri Psaltis (CalTech), and Glenn Sincerbox (U Arizona), together with leading experts in this area of research from both academic research and industry, bring together the latest knowledge on this technique. The book starts with an introduction on the history and fundamentals, multiplexing methods, and noise sources. The following chapters describe in detail recording media, components, channels, platforms for demonstration, and competing technologies such as classical hard disks or optical disks. More than 700 references make this book the ultimate source of information for the years to come.

The book is intended for physicists, optical engineers, and executives alike."--BOOK JACKET.