Abstract: A magnetic shield may be capable of enhancing magnetic writing, particularly in transducing elements accessing data bits from data tracks. At least one magnetic shield is adjacent a write pole. The shield has a flux concentration feature on an air bearing surface (ABS) capable of enhancing magnetic undershoot between the shield and the write pole.

Abstract: A magnetic shield may be capable of enhancing magnetic writing, particularly in transducing elements accessing data bits from data tracks. At least one magnetic shield is adjacent a write pole. The shield has a flux concentration feature on an air bearing surface (ABS) capable of enhancing magnetic undershoot between the shield and the write pole.

Abstract: A system for detecting thermal asperities and magnetic defects on a disc. The system includes a wide write head and a certification head. The wide write head includes a thermal asperity detector and a write element. A method for detecting thermal asperities and magnetic defects comprising writing a track with the wide write head, reading defects with the certification head, and scanning for thermal asperities with the thermal asperity detector. A burst pattern can be written to the disc upon locating a asperity of defect.

Abstract: An apparatus for protecting a magnetoresistive head from electrostatic discharge. The apparatus includes an actuator assembly including the magnetoresistive head, and a connector board including a plurality of conductive traces in electrical contact with the magnetoresistive head. The connector board defines a plurality of openings therein, each of the openings having sides surfaces in electrical contact with one of the traces. The apparatus further includes a conductive shunting member including a plurality of protruding members adapted to be inserted into the openings and contact the side surfaces of the openings. The shunting member, when so inserted into the openings shorts the traces to provide protection of the magnetoresistive head from electrostatic discharge.

Abstract: A system for detecting thermal asperities and magnetic defects on a disc. The system includes a wide write head and a certification head. The wide write head includes a thermal asperity detector and a write element. A method for detecting thermal asperities and magnetic defects comprising writing a track with the wide write head, reading defects with the certification head, and scanning for thermal asperities with the thermal asperity detector. A burst pattern can be written to the disc upon locating a asperity of defect.