Abstract: A process for making an optical transducer that includes depositing a lower molecular weight first layer and a higher molecular weight second layer. E-beam radiation is applied to the first and second layers which are developed to form an aperture. The aperture includes a resist protrusion in the second layer. The resist protrusion protrudes outward beyond the first layer. Metal is evaporated through the aperture to form the optical transducer. The resist protrusion defines a shape of a concave metal transducer corner.

Abstract: Diffraction gratings for coupling an electromagnetic wave into a planar waveguide are disclosed. The diffraction grating may include a first diffraction grating and a second diffraction grating slanted relative to one another. Alternatively, the diffraction grating may include a first diffraction grating and a second diffraction grating spaced apart to form a gap therebetween.

Abstract: A magnetic recording head comprises a write pole having a pole tip adjacent to an air bearing surface, a return pole, a near field transducer positioned adjacent to the air bearing surface for producing near field radiation for heating a portion of a magnetic storage medium, wherein a thermal profile of the portion of the magnetic storage medium has a maximum gradient at a location subject to a magnetic write field produced by the write pole. A disc drive that includes the magnetic recording head and a method of recording using the magnetic recording head are also provided.

Abstract: Diffraction gratings for coupling an electromagnetic wave into a planar waveguide are disclosed. The diffraction grating may include a first diffraction grating and a second diffraction grating slanted relative to one another. Alternatively, the diffraction grating may include a first diffraction grating and a second diffraction grating spaced apart to form a gap therebetween.