We propose to develop a novel holographic volume memory that has ultra high data storage capacity and throughput (in excess of 1012 bits storage and 1 bit/second transfer). The proposed method is based on the revolutionary concept of Speckle Wave Multiplexing. The device has a compact architecture similar to conventional optical CD ROMs. We employ a spatially-encoded reference wave that permits recall of stored information by spatially-shifting the mutual position of the encoded reconstruction beam and the storage medium. Entire data pages (in excess of 1 Mbit) can be recalled in parallel. Phase I research will extend existing analytic models of the spatially-multiplexed 3D holographic memory to optimize system design, perform experimental tests to validate the model, demonstrate operation of a scaled memory device and estimate performance of a full scale system. The fully developed system will significantly extend the archival and retrieval data capacity of NASA in terrestrial and spaced based information systems. Potential Commercial Applications (Limit 200 words) The proposed holographic volume memory has tremendous commercial potential in virtually every type of computer system for both the federal government and the private sector. In addition, the proposed system is particularly useful for security applications such as banking or proprietary data transfer where access to information needs to be restricted.
