Compact, integrated dynamic holographic memory with refreshed holograms

An innovative architecture for compact, integrated volume holographic memories is described. It is based on phase-conjugate readout and on a modulator-detector-memory array implemented in a silicon integrated circuit. The lensless memory module sustains dynamic read-write holograms by periodic refreshing. The integrated circuit is described and experimentally characterized. Holograms were stored in a prototype storage module that uses a 30 degrees-cut BaTiO3 crystal and the 90 degrees recording geometry. As many as three angularly multiplexed holograms were periodically refreshed and subjected to >40% decay from exposure to the reference beam over 50 to 100 cycles. Experimental data are presented. (C) 1997 Optical Society of America.