Abstract: A method and system for protecting a suspension assembly, such as a flex-on-suspension or trace suspension assembly, is disclosed. The suspension assembly is for use with a magnetoresistive (MR) head including an MR sensor. The MR sensor has a first end and a second end. The method and system include providing a first lead coupled with the first end of the MR sensor and providing a second lead coupled with the second end of the MR sensor. The method and system further include providing an insulating film supporting a first portion of the first lead and a second portion of the second lead. The method and system also include providing a resistor coupled with the first lead, the resistor being sufficiently large to damp a transient current in the MR sensor.

Abstract: A system and method for providing a magnetoresistive head is disclosed. The magnetoresistive head includes a first shield, a second shield, a magnetoresistive element, a first gap, and a second gap. The first gap is for insulating the magnetoresistive element from the first shield. The second gap is for insulating the magnetoresistive element from the first shield. The method and system include providing a heat conduction path coupled to the first shield and to the second shield. Heat may be transferred from the first shield and from the second shield via the heat conduction path.

Abstract: A magnetoresistive head achieves maximum signal output with minimal electromigration by using a magnetoresistive element through which a unidirectional sense current is flown. Periodically, a control circuit determines whether one or more switching criteria have been met, and applies a counter-directional compensation current in the magnetoresistive element when the switching criteria are met, thus suppressing electromigration in the magnetoresistive element in the direction of said sense current. In a preferred embodiment, the compensation current is applied during a quiescence period.