Thermal effects in shielded MR heads for tape applications

The authors discuss some factors that limit the permissible input power in multi-track magnetoresistive (MR) tape heads. The possible consequences of increasing the power dissipation in MR heads as a means of increasing readback signal amplitude are discussed. A simple model to describe the temperature rise of a shielded MR element is given. Evidence for exceeding the Curie point of ferrite used in shielded MR heads is seen with element temperatures in excess of 340 degrees C recorded prior to element burnout.<>