Abstract: A thin film magnetic recording medium for deposition on a record carrier includes a ferromagnetic alloy containing iron, cobalt and chromium. The ferromagnetic alloy consists of from 0-55% cobalt, from 8-22% of chromium with the remainder iron. The preferred range of chromium is from 10-18%. The magnetic recording layer is vacuum deposited over an extended portion of a record carrier for storing information which is represented by the spatial distribution of magnetic transitions in the magnetic layer. The iron-cobalt-chromium or iron-chromium composition according to this invention, gives the best magnetic properties consistent with excellent corrosion resistance.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for coating a thin film upon a substrate in a vacuum chamber using the sputter deposition technique on both sides of the substrate without rotation of the substrate. The substrate is held between two movable rams and is located between two targets equal to or larger in size than the substrate. The rams supply power and cooling to the substrate. A glow suppression ring circumscribes the periphery of the substrate. The cathodes of the sputtering system can be magnetically enhanced for concentration of the sputtering plasma.