Near-field magneto-optics and high density data storage

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Abstract
Near-field scanning optical microscopy (NSOM) has been used to image and record domains in thin-film magneto-optic (MO) materials. In the imaging mode, resolution of 30–50 nm has been consistently obtained, whereas in the recording mode, domains down to ∼60 nm have been written reproducibly. Data densities of ∼45 Gbits/in.2 have been achieved, well in excess of current magnetic or MO technologies. A brief analysis of speed and other issues indicates that the technique may represent a viable alternative to these and other methods for anticipated high density data storage needs.