Abstract: Methods and apparatus for increasing the reliability of removable storage media by dynamically reducing particulate contaminants from magnetic disks. The apparatus and methods include using wipers which slidingly engage both sides of the magnetic disk as the disk rotates, in order to reduce particulates. In some embodiments, the wiper can be coupled to a swing-type actuator or to any resilient member which can be moved over the surface of the magnetic disk.

Abstract: A magnetic disc for a computer disc drive has distinct zones of differing lubricant thickness. A bonded+mobile zone covers a portion of the disc which preferably coincides with the landing zone. A zone of different lubricant thickness, such as lubricant-free, bonded-only or mostly-bonded, covers a different portion of the disc such as over the data zone. After a uniform layer of lubricant is coated over the disc surface, lubricant can be removed from distinct zones by solvent removal over a periphery of the disc and by removal by laser. The lubricant removal from distinct zones can occur either before or after bonding. Multiple lubricant thickness zones may be used, and the lubricant thickness profile over the entire disc can be controlled as desired.

Abstract: An improved magnetic head slider is disclosed. The slider includes an air bearing surface and a trailing edge face. A magnetic transducer located at the trailing edge face end of the slider is encapsulated in alumina. A coating of non-hygroscopic material covers at least portions of the alumina to form at least portions of the trailing edge face.

Abstract: A magnetic disc for a computer disc drive has distinct zones of differing lubricant thickness. A bonded+mobile zone covers a portion of the disc which preferably coincides with the landing zone. A zone of different lubricant thickness, such as lubricant-free, bonded-only or mostly-bonded, covers a different portion of the disc such as over the data zone. After a uniform layer of lubricant is coated over the disc surface, lubricant can be removed from distinct zones by solvent removal over a periphery of the disc and by removal by laser. The lubricant removal from distinct zones can occur either before or after bonding. Multiple lubricant thickness zones may be used, and the lubricant thickness profile over the entire disc can be controlled as desired.

Abstract: The present invention includes a system for monitoring surface structures on a planar surface utilizing a radiation source emitting a beam. The planar surface has various surface structure types, including a plurality of grooves therein which intersect at various angles which are equal to or less than a predetermined maximum angle. The system includes an apparatus for directing the beam to the planar surface along an optical axis perpendicular to the planar surface resulting in radiation being scattered from the planar surface and a reference beam being specularly reflected from the planar surface. The system also includes detector responsive to radiation scattered from the planar surface. This detector produces a first signal representative thereof.