Abstract: Apparatus and method for mounting a disc drive with vertical and horizontal compressible elements and for stabilizing the disc drive during use. Shock mounts are affixed to a horizontal surface (i.e. parallel to a data surface) of the disc drive, slowing vertical shock pulses transmitted from the frame to the disc drive. Recessed vertical surfaces are formed on sides of the housing to accommodate additional dampeners, which slow horizontal shock pulses while reducing operating vibration.

Abstract: Non operational shock resistance is achieved by preventing separation of the read/write head from the disk. Embodiments include optimizing the normal stiction force of a lubricant topcoat by controlling the texture geometry of the landing zone and lubricant topcoat thickness, particularly the density of protrusions. Laser textured landing zones having a protrusion density above about 4,500 protrusions/mm.sup.2 can provide an optimal normal stiction force in excess of 25 gf per interface and a lateral stiction force below 10 gf per interface.

Abstract: A gimbal for supporting a slider at its leading surface in a disc drive assembly includes a gimbal body, a slider support beam and a slider mounting tab. The slider support beam is carried by the gimbal body and defines a vertical slider alignment feature. The slider mounting tab extends out of plane from the slider support beam and defines a horizontal slider alignment feature. The slider mounting tab is attached to the leading surface of the slider. The design of the slider mounting tab of the present invention is useful for supporting a leading edge microactuator at a leading edge of the slider for micropositioning a transducer over ideal track centers on a disc surface.