Abstract: A high rate sputtering device and method provide an extended life moveable cathode/target allowing increased current density. The cathode/target may be provided as a moving ribbon or rotating drum or disk, passing through the active plasma while the cooling of the cathode/target is improved. Alternatively, the cathode/target may be formed as a rod fed into the active plasma.

Abstract: A system is described for determining the position of a magnetic read head relative to the center of a selected data track on a magnetic recording medium moving with respect to the read head. Tracking signals of equal frequency, but out of phase a predetermined fixed amount, are recorded on adjacent data tracks. The tracking signal frequency is selected to be a long enough wavelength such that a single read head positioned over a selected data track also detects the tracking signal recorded on adjacent data tracks. A phase comparator compares the phase of the tracking signal detected by the read head with respect to the phase of a reference signal of equal frequency, and a resultant signal is generated which is indicative of any deviation of the read head from the center of the selected track.

Abstract: An electronic switching circuit coupled between a magnetic head driving circuit and transducing windings utilizing an electronic switch whose internal resistance changes substantially linearly in response to an increasing or decreasing control signal. Particularly useful in magnetic bias recording or erase circuits to eliminate erase of useful information and recording of disturbing noise spikes due to induced high frequency noise signal when the switch is activated.