A new concept of multi-channel parallel processing is introduced into associative memory system initially in this paper. A two-channel associative system using a CCD camera, an image card, a computer and a liquid crystal light valve (LCLV) as the controlling and input devices, and liquid crystal photoelectric switches (LCPES) as the threshold devices, is proposed. The method of storing in this system is to store a large amount of reference images into an external storage carried out by computer disks, while only store one iamge in one piece of memory medium within the system. The experimental results show that its performances, such as processing speed, output quality and so on, have all been optimized. In addition, the real-time associative degree obtained 50%.