Performance evaluation of discrete track perpendicular media for high recording density

Abstract

In this paper, the evaluation results of the performance of discrete track perpendicular media is described. Discrete track patterns for data area and servo patterns such as address marks and burst patterns for each sector are formed by nano-imprint lithography and the dry etching process. Comparison of the error rate profile in both the discrete track media and conventional media is shown. Write and read operations are conducted by a perpendicular magnetic head which has MWW of 195 nm and MRW of 100 nm. In the conventional media, the error rate of the center-track is degraded due to the side-writing and cross talk. On the other hand, in the discrete track media, the error rate is kept unchangeable. This is because the grooves between the tracks prevent the side-writing and cross talk. In addition, higher SNR is observed at the narrower track pitch in the discrete track media.