Title: Perspective of read heads for ultra-high recording densities and associated noise issues

Authors: Haiwen Xi, Yiming Shi, Sining Mao

Addresses: Recording Head Operations (RHO), Seagate Technology, 7801 Computer Avenue South, Bloomington, Minnesota 55435, USA. ' Recording Head Operations (RHO), Seagate Technology, 7801 Computer Avenue South, Bloomington, Minnesota 55435, USA. ' Recording Head Operations (RHO), Seagate Technology, 7801 Computer Avenue South, Bloomington, Minnesota 55435, USA

Abstract: In the paper, the authors review the Current Perpendicular-to-Plane (CPP) read heads for ultra-high recording densities. First the advantages of CPP heads over Current-in-Plane (CIP) heads are presented. Then the technologies including tunnelling magnetoresistance that has been used in read heads are discussed. Last, noise and instability issues in CPP heads associated with the specific technologies are analysed from the angles of understanding the microscopic mechanisms and of optimising the head fabrication process.

Keywords: magnetic recording heads; spin-valves; magnetic tunnel junctions; magnetoresistance; ultra-high recording densities; noise; instability; head fabrication; current perpendicular-to-plane; CPP read heads.

DOI: 10.1504/IJPD.2008.017460

International Journal of Product Development, 2008 Vol.5 No.3/4, pp.215 - 225

Published online: 11 Mar 2008 *

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