Abstract: A core for a magnetic head assembly includes a T-shaped ferrite member having an aperture for the transducing coil and a beveled edge along the top of the T. A ceramic body has a first slot in which the arms of the T-shaped member are positioned and a cross-slot which is deeper than the first slot. The vertical portion of the T-shaped ferrite core is positioned in the cross-slot.

Abstract: A head is moved toward and rotated against an abrasive while its resistance is monitored by a four-lead bridge. Prior to final manufacture, the head includes a highly conductive segment which surrounds the active head element on three sides and is electrically connected to it at one point. The segment is ground away during manufacture. Two leads from the head are connected to two slip rings, and each slip ring has two pairs of brushes, each wire from the bridge going to a different brush pair. Head movement toward the abrasive is terminated when a predetermined head resistance is detected by the bridge.