Direct read during mark formation for laser power correction

摘要

A recording apparatus and method are disclosed for forming marks on a recording medium. The recording apparatus includes an arrangement having an adjustable light source for producing a beam of light having first and second portions, with the second portion for recording marks on the medium, and an arrangement responsive to the first portion of the light beam and including a front facet detector positioned to receive the first portion of the light beam directly from the light source for producing a front facet signal. The recording apparatus also includes an arrangement for detecting light from the second portion of the light beam which is reflected from the medium and for producing a mark formation signal, and circuitry responsive to the front facet signal and the mark formation signal for producing a mark formation effectiveness signal. The recording apparatus further includes an arrangement for storing a mark formation effectiveness reference signal and circuitry responsive to the mark formation effectiveness signal and the mark formation effectiveness reference signal for adjusting the power of the light source during recording so that the amount of power is adjusted to maintain optimum mark quality.