Abstract: A compact stereo light table includes a pair of high intensity spot sources on a diffusely illuminated background that are selectively diffuse or specular. There are controls for spot brightness, diameter and positioning and specular to diffuse adjustment.

Abstract: This disclosure depicts an optical system and method for encoded storage and retrieval, wherein record images are enciphered using incoherent light and wherein deciphering of the coded images is performed in coherent light. More particularly, the disclosure depicts encoding images by inserting a complex phase function in the Fourier transform plane of the imaging means which satisfies the relation:.PHI.(x, y) = .PHI.(-x, -y).To retrieve a decoded image of the original object, the encoded record is illuminated with collimated coherent quasi-monochromatic light and its Fourier transform is formed in a plane in space. A complex phase function equal to the autoconvolution of the coding function is located in the transform plane. The phase-altered distribution in the transform plane is retransformed to produce a decoded image. Exemplary coding and decoding phase function is also depicted.