Optical storage utilizing a silicon vidicon

An all-electronic means is described for transferring the electronic charge pattern formed by an optical image incident on a silicon vidicon to the oxide surface surrounding the photodiodes. The stored image may be read out for several minutes or stored for longer periods of time. The resolution of the stored image is that of the silicon vidicon, while the dynamic range is that of the equivalent silicon dioxide storage tube. Neither an optical nor an electrical shutter is required during the cycle of operation.