Abstract: A compact write element includes a conductive shield layer, an insulating write gap layer, a pole pedestal, a coil, and a conductive pole layer, and, in some embodiments also includes a backgap. The pole pedestal and the coil, and, in some embodiments the backgap, constitute a self-aligned array of components that may be formed in a single masking operation to allow for very tight tolerances between the components for a shorter yoke length. The pole layer is substantially flat and parallel to the conductive shield layer, providing for a shorter stack height. Also, a compact MR read/write head includes such a write element and a magnetic data storage and retrieval system includes the compact MR read/write head having such a write element.

Abstract: A compact write element for magnetically recording data on a magnetic medium and methods for making the same. The write element includes a conductive shield layer, an insulating write gap layer, a pole pedestal, a coil, and a conductive pole layer, with some embodiments further including a backgap. The pole pedestal, coil, and in some embodiments the backgap, constitute a self-aligned array of components that may be formed with a single masking operation to allow for very tight tolerances between the components for a shorter yoke length. The pole layer of the present invention is substantially flat and parallel to the conductive shield layer, providing for a shorter stack height. The present invention includes incorporation of the compact write element in both a read/write head and a magnetic data storage and retrieval system.

Abstract: The present invention describes a write element for a magnetic recording device that incorporates a second pole pedestal with a tapered shape. This tapered shape substantially reduces side-writing and the second pulse effect, each of which can limit maximum areal densities of information recorded on magnetic media. The present invention further includes a magnetic recording device incorporating a write element with a tapered second pole pedestal within the read/write head. The present invention also includes a method for producing a write element incorporating a tapered second pole pedestal.

Abstract: A write element for recording data on a magnetic medium is provided having an impedance designed to substantially match the impedance of an electrical interconnection between it and a pre-amp chip located nearby on the load beam. Additional embodiments are directed to incorporating a read element with the write element to form a read/write head, and to further incorporate the read/write head into a magnetic disk drive. Further embodiments are directed towards the fabrication of the write element.

Abstract: The present invention provides a thin film magnetoresistive current perpendicular to the plane read head device and method of fabrication. The structure of the thin film head of the present invention may comprise a lower pedestal shield, a lower sensor lead, a magnetoresistive structure, an upper sensor lead, and an upper pedestal shield. The sensor leads have a portion located between the pedestal and the magnetoresistive structure, and a portion lateral to the between portion. Either or both sensor leads may have a portion projecting from the lateral portion. The projecting portions provide greater cross-section to the lateral portion of the lead to decrease lead resistance without increasing the pedestal-to-pedestal distance. The projecting portions form recessed portions in the sensor leads for seating the pedestal. The projecting portions may abut the pedestals.