Readout performance analysis of a cryogenic magnetooptical data storage system

The readout signal and noise generation processes have been studied for a magnetooptical data storage model using a GaAs laser source for both thermal writing and Faraday readout on a Fe doped EuO film. Experience with a laboratory model indicates that the usual analysis which treats only detector shot noise leads to incorrect values for optimum film thickness and analyzer angle. For additional details, see Digests of the 1972 Intermag Conference (available from IEEE Headquarters).