Generalized Pulse Recording

Tape magnetization characteristics resulting from an input switching are analyzed from a general point of view. A previously developed theory1 is first applied to the simple switching between zero and saturation field levels to determine the recorded magnetization and recorded pulse shape. From this analysis the characteristics of RZ pulses can be determined. The analysis is then extended to determine the recorded characteristics resulting from switching between saturation levels. These two cases of switching are the basis for analyzing the tape magnetization resulting from more general switching. Switching between larger than saturation fields is investigated, as is switching between any two input levels. Switching with a nonzero time constant is considered, as is switching between saturation levels with a time delay at zero field. Finally, the recorded pulses resulting from consecutive saturation switchings are determined. Although the analysis is based on a linear magnetization curve, a qualitative description of the effect of a nonlinear magnetization curve is also given.