A hard copy recorder utilizing a directly modulated solid-state source

Hard-copy recorders convert video signals from line scan sensors (such as laser, CCD, or infrared scanners) into permanent images, typically in the form of a continuous image on a long strip of film. Available units are either limited in resolution and writing rate (e.g., CRT types), or exceed the requirements of many sensors and are excessively expensive and complex (e.g., electron beam and gas laser). A reliable hard-copy recorder featuring adequate performance at a reasonable cost was needed for existing ARPA, Air Force, and Navy hardware programs. To meet this requirement, a medium-resolution, moderate-cost, continuous strip hard-copy recorder was developed utilizing a directly modulated solid-state energy source. Although the initial prototype described here used conventional wet-processed films, the advantages of a dry-process recorder are recognized and conversion to dry-processing is planned. The resulting recorder accepts line scan video signals as input and generates continuous hard-copy imagery on film.