An advanced linear multi-channel tape head for digital video applications

This paper describes the design, fabrication and performance of an advanced multi-channel tape head for linear digital video applications. The heads were batch fabricated on AlTiC substrates using conventional thin film processing techniques. Each head comprised an array of 16 channels, with each channel consisting of a merged MR reader/inductive writer structure. Two separate head designs were manufactured to investigate improved areal density recording. One type had a channel pitch of 150 um and did not employ a servo scheme. The second type had a channel pitch of 112.5 um and employed a closed loop servo mechanism. After machining and assembly, fully functional heads were employed to write data onto conventional 1650 Oe metal particulate tape media using RLL (1,7) code at a track density of approximately 1350 tpi and a linear transition density of 102 kpbi resulting in an areal density of 138 Mb/in/sup 2/. The heads exhibited good output, symmetry, resolution and overwrite. The data indicates that with careful process control, it is feasible to manufacture multi-channel tape heads using thin film processing techniques.