Edge effects in narrow track recording using symmetric and asymmetric write pole geometries

At high track densities, the erase band can become a significant part of the written track. The large erase band associated with an asymmetric write pole geometry can reduce data track width and signal amplitude, and quicken the onset of track edge noise, in comparison to a symmetric geometry. The effects of these phenomena on soft error rate performance and off-track capability are investigated in detail. The mechanical texturing of recording media which is necessary for good stiction characteristics can have an undesirable side effect on magnetic performance. A simple technique is described to measure the modulation noise caused by the texture in the substrate. Measurements made on CoPtCr media show a strong connection between the degree of modulation and the error rate.>