Abstract: An electromagnetic actuator for a data disc drive having a carriage on which is mounted one or more read/write heads for cooperation with a data disc. The carriage is supported in the housing for movement on an axis that is oriented radially of the disc. The end of the carriage remote from the read/write head is of hollow rectangular cross-sectional shape; there is a voice coil mounted on the end of the carriage. A magnetic housing defines a cavity in alignment with the carriage and the coil so that the carriage and coil can move within the cavity. The housing is constructed of magnetic material, and in magnetic circuit with the housing is at least one permanent magnet. The permanent magnet has a surface that confronts the path along which the coil moves.