By using near-field optics, an extremely small light spot can be formed without being restricted by light diffraction. If this technique is applied to writing and reading of signals, ultra-high density data recording would become available, far exceeding the limits of state-of-art technology.. The Project aims at developing elementary technology needed for the near-field optical recording, to establish the foundation for realizing ultra-high density recording at 1 Tb/in2.

SUBTHEMES

• Near-field Optical Recording
• Development of Near-field Optical Recording Media
• Development of Near-field Optical Device Technology
• Development of Ultra-Precision Pit Measuring Technology

REPRESENTATIVE ACHIEVEMENTS

• Readout of Phase Change Recording Marks by a Near-Field Optical Probe
• Development of Super-RENS System

Introduction of laboratory