Investigation of the reliability of data readout by an optoelectronic channel in a holographic memory

An approximate expression is obtained for the case of low values of the error probability, considered as a function of the contrast between unity and zero, and of low ratio of the signal to the rms fluctuation the assumption that the laser radiation obeys the Poisson statistics. This expression is used to plot the dependences of the error probability on the two parameters mentioned above and on the stability of the threshold and signal level in the readout channel. A method is suggested for measuring the distribution of the amplitude fluctuations in the readout channel. The results of an experimental study are given.