Abstract: A molecular memory system that includes a protective layer that is disposed over a molecular recording layer is described. The protective layer enables a scanning probe to write information to and read information from a molecular memory element by direct electrical contact without substantial risk of damage to either the scanning probe or the molecular recording medium. In this way, the invention avoids the high emission currents, which may damage the probe electrode or the recording media, or both, and avoids other difficulties often associated molecular memory systems with non-contacting probe electrodes.

Abstract: A specially designed, forceful, compact magnetic micro-mover includes at least one etched single crystal silicon plate having integral springs and stable, low internal stress. A structure of springs which support a rectangular plate are etched in silicon. The plate is driven by planar electromagnetic actuation. The micro-mover consists of a specific etched silicon spring in combination with a planar electromagnetic moving coil actuator that is capable of generating forces greater than 50 mN, while dissipating less than 1 W peak power. The micro-mover also includes a plate suspension system that facilitates the required plate motions and resolution, while preventing changes in plate spacing from effects such as external acceleration, temperature, humidity, and aging; and includes an actuator that appropriately moves the plates in response to electrical signals, such that there is only minimal cross-talk between axes of motion.

Abstract: A magnetic thin film materials system (10, 10') is provided, comprising a thin magnetic film (16) formed on a non-magnetic underlayer (14) formed on a substrate (12). In particular, the magnetic film comprises a composition consisting essentially of CoCrPt, with Cr ranging from about 10 to 20 at %, Pt ranging from about 1 to 20 at % and the balance Co. The underlayer consists essentially of chromium. The magnetic layer ranges in thickness from about 200 to 1,200 .ANG., while the non-magnetic underlayer ranges in thickness from about 500 to 5,000 .ANG.. The platinum control film coercivity, while chromium provides corrosion resistance. In addition, chromium controls the recorded magnetic transition noise properties. An increase in Cr content in these alloys beyond about 10 at % increases the corrosion resistance and unexpectedly lowers the transition noise significantly. Coercivities of from about 500 to greater than 2,000 Oe and magnetization-thickness products from 1 to 6.times.10.sup.-3 emu/cm.sup.