Abstract: Apparatus consisting of a flat, two-dimensional array of laser/photo diodes; an optical storage card positioned below the array; and a mechanism to move the card in both the X- and Y-directions to position the laser/photo diode array over any one particular location on the card. A further mechanism serves to move the card in the X- and Y-directions and angularly to provide an initial alignment of the card with respect to the laser/photo diode array. Yet another mechanism moves the card in the Z-direction for focusing purposes. A laser/optical interface positioned between the laser/photo diode array and the card which is formed of an array of collimating and focusing holographic micro lenses (HOE) with surface diffraction patterns. An electronic section functions as an interface between a central processing unit (CPU) and the lasers and photo diodes of the array. The optical storage card is a thin, re-writable phase-change type.

Abstract: A digital data recording and playback system which includes an optical recording and playback head for recording and reproducing digital data onto and from a stationary optical storage card. The head contains a multiplicity of miniature laser cells mounted in rows and columns and directed to a surface of the stationary optical storage card. The head may be operated in any one of three modes, namely a record mode in which data is recorded on the card; a playback mode in which data recorded on the card is reproduced; and an erase mode in which data recorded on the card is completely or partially erased.