Jones matrix analysis of magnetooptical media and read-back systems.

A Jones matrix approach is used to study a magnetooptic read-back system which uses a wave plate for maximizing the signal. The effects and interactions of Kerr rotation, Kerr ellipticity, birefringence in the substrate and in the optical system, and misalignment of the optical components are considered. Several criteria are developed for maximizing the signal and minimizing the noise.