Track position dependence of performance attributes in permanent magnet biased MR/SAL heads

The cross track performance of permanent magnet biased MR/SAL heads for high density magnetic recording is investigated. Two designs using different methods to define the read width (with and without inactive MR wing regions under the conductors) are fabricated and compared. The design with the wings is easier to manufacture than the other design, but it has some shortfalls that limit its cross track performance. The cross track characteristics such as servo capability and side reading range can be affected significantly by the design and sensor stripe height. A 3-dimensional micromagnetic model and servo calculations are utilized to understand the cross track behavior of the two designs and the impact on system performance. The influence of top pole curvature due to the underlying conductor topography in the read head on the cross track profile is also studied.