Scientists at the City University of New York (CUNY) have achieved a groundbreaking advancement in data storage technology by utilizing diamond, enabling record data density down to a single atom.
Optical memory technologies often face limitations in writing fine data due to laser beam diffraction. CUNY researchers discovered a method to surpass these limitations using diamond as a storage medium.
Researchers control the electrical charge of color centers using a narrow-band laser and cryogenic conditions. This precise control allows for writing and reading data at a finer level than was previously achievable.
Different wavelengths of light are used to write data to color centers closer together than the diffraction limit allows. This approach enables three times more data storage in one region, alternating between different colors.
In tests, the researchers successfully imprinted 12 different images at different frequencies in the same spot. This resulted in a remarkable data density of 25 GB per square inch, equivalent to a standard single-layer Blu-Ray disc
The technique is reversible, allowing for the writing, erasing, and rewriting of data as needed. This flexibility enhances the practical applications of the breakthrough.
Researchers believe that with further development, the breakthrough could be applied to other materials. Potential to operate at room temperature, eliminating the need for cryogenic conditions.