Abstract: A single channel optical recording system is described, which system does not require a second rotating optical element. The system uses focus error correction components located outside the rotating drum. Light transmitted to and from the drum is at all times axially symmetric, thus circumventing the problem of image rotation. Lateral error correction takes place entirely within the drum, requiring only the transmission of d.c. electrical power across the rotating interface. Preferably the physical distribution of optical components within the drum is symmetric to ensure mechanical balance. A dual beam tracking system to write data in compact form in a single-channel optical tape recorder is also described. The tracking is achieved in the drum and without any additional optical elements. Passive or active alignment of the two beams before entering the drum is achieved using an extended anamorphic prism pair and without introducing additional optical surfaces into the beam path.

Abstract: An optical rotator such as a Pechan rotator is arranged to rotate an image about a given axis. Light entering an input surface of the rotator is subjected to a number (e.g. five) of reflections, alternate reflections being total internal reflections and the intervening ones being mirror reflections. At least one of the surfaces, preferably one at which total internal reflection occurs, bears a layered polarizing material arranged to impart a defined polarization effect as between light entering and exiting the rotator.