Abstract: A combined read/write magnetic head is disclosed in which the read head includes a magnetoresistive element (MRE) overlying a substrate of substantially magnetically impermeable material, a broken (discontinuous) flux guide overlying the MRE and a continuous flux guide overlying the broken flux guide. The write head of the combined read/write magnetic head overlies the read head and shares the continuous flux guide with the read head, the continuous flux guide serving as a bottom pole of the write head. Significantly, the dimensions of the various elements of the combined read/write magnetic head are chosen so that relatively little magnetic flux produced by the write head during writing, or entering the write head during reading, is communicated via the shared flux guide to the MRE.

Abstract: A method of establishing a single domain in a magnetoresistive sensor positioned in a gap between two shield layers of magnetic material. The method includes the steps of heating the magnetoresistive head above the Neel temperature of at least one of the shield layers of magnetic material. Applying an external magnetic field to the magnetoresistive sensor and the shield layers for establishing a single magnetic domain in the magnetoresistive sensor. Reducing the intensity of the external magnetic field for holding the magnetization of the magnetoresistive sensor during cooling. Cooling the magnetoresistive head.

Abstract: A magnetoresistive sensor element having bottleneck shaped ends. The sensor element has a highly stable, single domain central region, which eliminates Barkhausen noise.