A novel technique for data protection in compact discs

A holographic system for secure storage of data in compact discs has been proposed by use of an optical variable key. The variable key, which is a photopolymer micro-hologram, was used to decrypt the data in compact disc and a unique key was provided for a unique compact disc. This unique key supports inventory, maintenance and monitoring. The system involves a key reader for optically reconstructing the variable code in the machine readable micro-hologram and the compact disc becomes readable only when the reconstructed key correlates with the encryption key. The paper reports about the experimental details and development of holographic variable data storage system for secure storage and authentic transfer of data in compact discs to prevent data piracy.