Magnetic imaging reference sample

We propose a reference sample for magnetic imaging. We have chosen a thin-film magnetic hard disk as a representative sample because the domains are very stable magnetically and thermally. This type of sample is also of fundamental interest to the disk drive industry, currently the largest user of magnetic force microscopy. Disk samples are prepared by writing a special magnetic pattern consisting of various transition spacings designed to explore certain aspects of magnetic imaging. Disks are then cut into coupons, cleaned and patterned with a reference grid of numbered 20 /spl mu//spl times/20 /spl mu/m Au frames. These frames allow easy navigation around the sample. We believe a sample of this type can help define limits, expectations and claims of resolution, as well as instrument sensitivity and ease of operation.