Abstract: A method for initializing a phase change information storage device. The method includes the steps of: providing a data storage device having a phase change data storage medium, and exposing the phase change data storage medium with a first, energy exposure for about 1 &mgr;sec or less.

Abstract: A system, apparatus and method for automatically identifying frames of information in video format consisting of fields taken from the same frame or substantially similar frames of information in film format, and distinguishing such video frames from video frames consisting of fields taken from adjacent film frames. The sequential scan lines of successive video frame fields are filtered to remove high frequency fine detail, and are then compared pixel by pixel to corresponding pixels in the adjacent field. If the two fields within a video frame are substantially identical, the frame is identified as one containing fields from the same film frame or substantially similar frames and suitable for freeze-frame viewing.

Abstract: A method of making an optical memory disc replica that includes the steps of injection molding a PMMA substrate having a surface with information recorded thereon as a series of surface undulations, and depositing a film of optically reflective metallic construction over the information surface such that the information recorded on the surface may be optically read through the substrate as a function of reflectivity from the film. The reflective film is sputter-deposited onto the information surface in the presence of carbon at said surface in excess of that in the polymer molecular structure by subjecting the surface to a plasma that includes carbon-rich ions to prepare the surface for chemical bonding with the metal of the film and the underlying substrate.