Vertical GMR recording heads for 100 Gb/in/sup 2/

Vertical giant magnetoresistive (GMR) recording head designs have been proposed to achieve the optimum bias point and magnetic stability. Using a micromagnetic model, several design options were simulated and a test feature was built to validate the model prediction. The vertical GMR head uses a front lead to connect the GMR element to shield at the air-bearing surface (ABS) and the sense current passes vertically from ABS to the back lead through the active elements. Canted stabilization fields are needed for proper bias for vertical GMR (VGMR) heads. A design proposal for 100 Gb/in/sup 2/ is presented.