Abstract: A method of assembling a disk file comprises merging a pre-assembled actuator assembly and disk stack assembly prior to attaching them to a common base. The relative axial positions of the actuator assembly and disk stack assembly are measured and adjusted to align head arms with collapsed suspensions with the inter disk spaces. Once aligned the two assemblies can be moved together and the heads released.

Abstract: A linear actuator for positioning the heads of a disk file relative to tracks on the disks employs a ceramic material having wear properties superior to steel in guide surfaces for guiding a head supporting carriage running on rotary bearings in contact with the guide surfaces. The preferred ceramic material is tetragonally stabilized zirconia.

Abstract: A voice coil motor for a moving storage media actuator has a permanent magnet assembly wherein a radially polarized magnet is formed as sectors, with like sectors of the outer housing which forms a portion of the pole piece assembly. These sectors are then mounted on the remainder of the pole piece assembly for the magnetic actuator to form a cylindrical magnet and cylindrical outer pole piece. The sectors require no further attachment or adhesive in addition to the magnetic field and provides substantially zero clearance contact between magnet and pole piece, to afford a continuous magnetic path interrupted only by the working gap through which the voice coil travels.