Abstract: A magnetic head includes a pole layer accommodated in a groove. The pole layer has a track width defining portion and a wide portion. The pole layer includes a plurality of magnetic films stacked. At least one of the plurality of magnetic films includes a first portion included in the track width defining portion, a second portion included in the wide portion, and a third portion coupling the first and second portions to each other. In a cross section passing through the center of the pole layer taken in the track width direction, the second portion is smaller than the first portion in thickness and the top surface of the third portion is inclined with respect to a direction perpendicular to a medium facing surface.

Abstract: A data storage apparatus and associated method is provided involving a data storage disc that is rotatable around a first axis. An actuator is rotatable around a second axis to operably position a data transfer member between an innermost radial location of the data storage disc and an outermost radial storage location of the data storage disc. A snubber is supported by the actuator and has a distal edge configured as being, in relation to a reference plane including the first axis and the second axis when the actuator is rotated to position the data transfer member at the innermost radial location, arcuate along a first radius on one side of the reference plane and arcuate along a second radius different than the first radius on the other side of the reference plane.