Optical scanning device using a plurality of scanning spots

摘要

An optical scanning device using one or more rows of scanning spots for simultaneously scanning a plurality of information tracks of an optical record carrier. The resulting radiation produced from the respective spots is imaged on respective photodetectors, and the detection signals from a plurality of the photodetectors are used to derive focus error and tracking error signals for the corresponding scanning spots. Error signals of the same type are then combined to derive servo control signals for respectively controlling focus and tracking of all scanning spots. The focus error signals can also be combined to derive further servo control signals for controlling tilt of the record carrier and tracking angle. Derivation of the servo control signals from error signals corresponding to a plurality of the scanning spots achieves improved immunity against the effects of dust or other artifacts on the surface of the record carrier.