Abstract: An electrical connection between a first element and a second element formed by a solder ball bridge having at least three solder balls in physical contact with each other extending to electrically connect the first element and the second element. The solder ball bridge is particularly suitable for a disc drive system, to form an electrical connection between two elements such as between a piezoelectric microactuator element and the suspension assembly. Methods of making a solder ball bridge are also provided.

Abstract: A slider includes a slider body and a bond pad. The bond pad is positioned on the slider body and has a bonding surface with a recessed channel for directing solder flow. Separately related, an assembly includes a suspension assembly including a suspension mounting surface and a suspension pad on the suspension mounting surface. A slider is positioned adjacent the suspension mounting surface, with a slider pad aligned with the suspension pad. A recessed channel is in at least one of the slider pad or the suspension pad. A solder joint is formed between the suspension pad and the slider pad and extends into the recessed channel.

Abstract: A slider includes a slider body and a bond pad. The bond pad is positioned on the slider body and has a bonding surface with a recessed channel for directing solder flow.