Abstract: A method of determining a clearance between a magnetic transducer and a magnetic recording medium during a track seeking operation, the magnetic recording medium being moveable with respect to the transducer and including at least a test track and a reference track, which method comprises the steps of: at least partially erasing a predetermined area of the recording medium including at least one test track and one reference track; writing a first series of predetermined magnetic transitions along a spiral trace, formed by seeking operation of the transducer, on the at least one test track in the predetermined area; reading the test track and obtaining a pulse width of signals read back from the test track (test track pulse width) at a predetermined amplitude level; writing a further series of predetermined magnetic transitions identical to the first series on a reference track of the recording medium in the predetermined area; reading the reference track and obtaining, a pulse width of signals read back from

Abstract: The present invention discloses a low voltage rail-to-rail CMOS input stage. The input stage includes a differential pail of P-channel metal oxide semiconductor field effect (PMOS) transistors, which produces differential output current signal. The input stage further includes a pair of N-channel depletion-mode metal oxide semiconductor field effect (NMOS) transistors, coupled to the bulk terminals of the differential pair of PMOS transistors, for receiving an input signal. The depletion-mode NMOS transistors further act as source follower devices to drive the bulk terminals of the differential pair of PMOS transistors.

Abstract: A sonic actuator including a multi-layer membrane having an elastomeric dielectric polymer layer with a first surface and a second surface, a first compliant electrode layer contacting the first surface of the polymer layer, and a second compliant electrode layer contacting the second surface of the polymer layer. The actuator further includes a support structure in contact with the sonic actuator film. Preferably, the dielectric polymer is selected from the group consisting essentially of silicone, polyurethane fluorosilicone, fluoroelastomer, natural rubber, polybutadiene, nitrile rubber, isoprene, and ethylene propylene diene. Also preferably, the compliant electrode layer is made from the group consisting essentially of graphite, carbon, and conductive polymers. The support structure can take the form of grid having a number of circular apertures.

Abstract: The present invention improves the human/computer interface by providing printable interfaces that enable a user to invoke and control computer processes. The present invention teaches an encoded physical medium suitable for use in interfacing a computer user and a computer system such that the user can control and/or access a plurality of computer implemented processes such computer applications and web pages. The encoded physical medium has a Linkmark and an instruction mark. Encoded within the Linkmark is machine readable linking information directing to a computer implemented process. Encoded within the instruction mark is a machine readable operating instruction that, when decoded, may be executed by the computer implemented process. The present invention also teaches that the marks can present human readable information related to the nature of the machine readable information stored therein.