US 6,549,382 B1 · Read head with asymmetric dual AP pinned spin valve sensor

Abstract

A dual antiparallel (AP) pinned layer spin valve is provided for a read head wherein a sense current field opposes net ferromagnetic and demagnetizing fields from the first and second AP pinned layers on a free layer structure. In one embodiment the first and second AP pinned layers may be asymmetrical on each side of a free layer structure for providing a desired sense current field while in another embodiment one of the pinning layers may be insulative while the other is conductive so that the conductive pinning layer provides the necessary sense current field for counterbalancing the net ferromagnetic coupling and demagnetizing fields.

Claims45

Dependent claims

A magnetic read head comprising:

a spin valve sensor;
nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers;
the spin valve sensor being located between the first and second read gap layers;
ferromagnetic first and second shield layers;
and
the first and second read gap layers being located between the first and second shield layers;
the spin valve sensor including:
a ferromagnetic free layer structure;
first and second antiparallel (AP) pinned layers;
a nonmagnetic conductive first spacer layer between the free layer structure and the first AP pinned layer and a nonmagnetic conductive second spacer layer between the free layer structure and the second AP pinned layer;
an antiferromagnetic first pinning layer exchange coupled to the first AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the first AP pinned layer in a first direction;
and
an antiferromagnetic second pinning layer exchange coupled to the second AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the second AP pinned layer in a second direction;
and
all of the layers between the free layer structure and the first read gap layer being less conductive or more conductive than all of the layers between the free layer structure and the second read gap layer so that when a sense current is conducted through the sensor in a predetermined direction a net sense current field is exerted on the free layer structure to oppose a net demagnetizing field and a net ferromagnetic coupling field exerted on the free layer structure by the first and second AP pinned layers.

12 more elements

A magnetic read head comprising:

a spin valve sensor;
nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers;
the spin valve sensor being located between the first and second read gap layers;
ferromagnetic first and second shield layers;
and
the first and second read gap layers being located between the first and second shield layers;
the spin valve sensor including:
a ferromagnetic free layer structure;
first and second antiparallel (AP) pinned layers;
a nonmagnetic conductive first spacer layer between the free layer structure and the first AP pinned layer and a nonmagnetic conductive second spacer layer between the free layer structure and the second AP pinned layer;
an antiferromagnetic first pinning layer exchange coupled to the first AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the first AP pinned layer in a first direction;
and
an antiferromagnetic second pinning layer exchange coupled to the second AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the second AP pinned layer in a second direction;
all of the layers between the free layer structure and the first read gap layer being less conductive or more conductive than all of the layers between the free layer structure and the second read gap layer so that when a sense current is conducted through the sensor in a predetermined direction a net sense current field is exerted on the free layer structure to oppose a net demagnetizing field and a net ferromagnetic coupling field exerted on the free layer structure by the first and second AP pinned layers;
the second AP pinned layer being more conductive than the first AP pinned layer;
the first AP pinned layer having a first antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic first and second AP pinned films;
the second AP pinned layer having a second antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic third and fourth AP pinned films;
the first AP film being exchange coupled to the first pinning layer and the third AP pinned film being exchange coupled to the second pinning layer;
the third AP pinned film having a thickness that is greater than the fourth AP pinned film, the fourth AP pinned layer film having a thickness that is greater than the first AP pinned layer film and the first AP pinned layer film having a thickness that is greater than the second AP pinned layer film;
and
the first, second, third and fourth AP pinned films being composed of a same material.

18 more elements

A magnetic read head comprising:

a spin valve sensor;
nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers;
the spin valve sensor being located between the first and second read gap layers;
ferromagnetic first and second shield layers;
and
the first and second read gap layers being located between the first and second shield layers;
the spin valve sensor including:
a ferromagnetic free layer structure;
first and second antiparallel (AP) pinned layers;
a nonmagnetic conductive first spacer layer between the free layer structure and the first AP pinned layer and a nonmagnetic conductive second spacer layer between the free layer structure and the second AP pinned layer;
an antiferromagnetic first pinning layer exchange coupled to the first AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the first AP pinned layer in a first direction;
and
an antiferromagnetic second pinning layer exchange coupled to the second AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the second AP pinned layer in a second direction;
all of the layers between the free layer structure and the first read gap layer being less conductive or more conductive than all of the layers between the free layer structure and the second read gap layer so that when a sense current is conducted through the sensor in a predetermined direction a net sense current field is exerted on the free layer structure to oppose a net demagnetizing field and a net ferromagnetic coupling field exerted on the free layer structure by the first and second AP pinned layers;
the second AP pinned layer being more conductive than the first AP pinned layer;
the first AP pinned layer having a first antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic first and second AP pinned films;
the second AP pinned layer having a second antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic third and fourth AP pinned films;
the first AP film being exchange coupled to the first pinning layer and the third AP pinned film being exchange coupled to the second pinning layer;
the first and third AP pinned films having an equal thickness and the second and fourth AP pinned layer films having an equal thickness;
each of the first and third AP pinned films having a greater thickness than each of the second and fourth AP pinned layer films;
and
the first, second, third and fourth AP pinned films being composed of a same material.

19 more elements

A magnetic head assembly, having an air bearing surface (ABS), comprising:

a write head including:
ferromagnetic first and second pole piece layers that have a yoke portion located between a pole tip portion and a back gap portion;
a nonmagnetic write gap layer located between the pole tip portions of the first and second pole piece layers;
an insulation stack with at least one coil layer embedded therein located between the yoke portions of the first and second pole piece layers;
and
the first and second pole piece layers being connected at their back gap portions;
a read head including:
a spin valve sensor;
nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers;
the spin valve sensor being located between the first and second read gap layers;
ferromagnetic first and second shield layers;
and
the first and second read gap layers being located between the first and second shield layers;
the spin valve sensor including:
a ferromagnetic free layer structure;
first and second antiparallel (AP) pinned layers;
a nonmagnetic conductive first spacer layer between the free layer structure and the first AP pinned layer and a nonmagnetic conductive second spacer layer between the free layer structure and the second AP pinned layer;
an antiferromagnetic first pinning layer exchange coupled to the first AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the first AP pinned layer in a first direction;
and
an antiferromagnetic second pinning layer exchange coupled to the second AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the second AP pinned layer in a second direction;
and
all of the layers between the free layer structure and the first read gap layer being less conductive or more conductive than all of the layers between the free layer structure and the second read gap layer so that when a sense current is conducted through the sensor in a predetermined direction a net sense current field is exerted on the free layer structure to oppose a net demagnetizing field and a net ferromagnetic coupling field exerted on the free layer structure by the first and second AP pinned layers.

19 more elements

A magnetic head assembly having an air bearing surface (ABS), comprising:

a write head including:
ferromagnetic first and second pole piece layers that have a yoke portion located between a pole tip portion and a back gap portion;
a nonmagnetic write gap layer located between the pole tip portions of the first and second pole piece layers;
an insulation stack with at least one coil layer embedded therein located between the yoke portions of the first and second pole piece layers;
and
the first and second pole piece layers being connected at their back gap portions;
a read head including:
a spin valve sensor;
nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers;
the spin valve sensor being located between the first and second read gap layers;
ferromagnetic first and second shield layers;
and
the first and second read gap layers being located between the first and second shield layers;
the spin valve sensor including:
a ferromagnetic free layer structure;
first and second antiparallel (AP) pinned layers;
a nonmagnetic conductive first spacer layer between the free layer structure and the first AP pinned layer and a nonmagnetic conductive second spacer layer between the free layer structure and the second AP pinned layer;
an antiferromagnetic first pinning layer exchange coupled to the first AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the first AP pinned layer in a first direction;
and
an antiferromagnetic second pinning layer exchange coupled to the second AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the second AP pinned layer in a second direction;
all of the layers between the free layer structure and the first read gap layer being less conductive or more conductive than all of the layers between the free layer structure and the second read gap layer so that when a sense current is conducted through the sensor in a predetermined direction a net sense current field is exerted on the free layer structure to oppose a net demagnetizing field and a net ferromagnetic coupling field exerted on the free layer structure by the first and second AP pinned layers;
the second AP pinned layer being more conductive than the first AP pinned layer;
the first AP pinned layer having a first antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic first and second AP pinned films;
the second AP pinned layer having a second antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic third and fourth AP pinned films;
the first AP film being exchange coupled to the first pinning layer and the third AP pinned film being exchange coupled to the second pinning layer;
the third AP pinned film having a thickness that is greater than the fourth AP pinned film, the fourth AP pinned layer film having a thickness that is greater than the first AP pinned layer film and the first AP pinned layer film having a thickness that is greater than the second AP pinned layer film;
and
the first, second, third and fourth AP pinned films being composed of a same material.

25 more elements

A magnetic head assembly having an air bearing surface (ABS), comprising:

a write head including:
ferromagnetic first and second pole piece layers that have a yoke portion located between a pole tip portion and a back gap portion;
a nonmagnetic write gap layer located between the pole tip portions of the first and second pole piece layers;
an insulation stack with at least one coil layer embedded therein located between the yoke portions of the first and second pole piece layers;
and
the first and second pole piece layers being connected at their back gap portions;
a read head including:
a spin valve sensor;
nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers;
the spin valve sensor being located between the first and second read gap layers;
ferromagnetic first and second shield layers;
and
the first and second read gap layers being located between the first and second shield layers;
the spin valve sensor including:
a ferromagnetic free layer structure;
first and second antiparallel (AP) pinned layers;
a nonmagnetic conductive first spacer layer between the free layer structure and the first AP pinned layer and a nonmagnetic conductive second spacer layer between the free layer structure and the second AP pinned layer;
an antiferromagnetic first pinning layer exchange coupled to the first AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the first AP pinned layer in a first direction;
and
an antiferromagnetic second pinning layer exchange coupled to the second AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the second AP pinned layer in a second direction;
all of the layers between the free layer structure and the first read gap layer being less conductive or more conductive than all of the layers between the free layer structure and the second read gap layer so that when a sense current is conducted through the sensor in a predetermined direction a net sense current field is exerted on the free layer structure to oppose a net demagnetizing field and a net ferromagnetic coupling field exerted on the free layer structure by the first and second AP pinned layers;
the second AP pinned layer being more conductive than the first AP pinned layer;
the first AP pinned layer having a first antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic first and second AP pinned films;
the second AP pinned layer having a second antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic third and fourth AP pinned films;
the first AP film being exchange coupled to the first pinning layer and the third AP pinned film being exchange coupled to the second pinning layer;
the first and third AP pinned films having an equal thickness and the second and fourth AP pinned layer films having an equal thickness;
each of the first and third AP pinned films having a greater thickness than each of the second and fourth AP pinned layer films;
and
the first, second, third and fourth AP pinned films being composed of a same material.

26 more elements

A magnetic disk drive, which has a magnetic head assembly wherein the magnetic head assembly has an air bearing surface and write and read heads, comprising:

the write head including:
ferromagnetic first and second pole piece layers that have a yoke portion located between a pole tip portion and a back gap portion;
a nonmagnetic write gap layer located between the pole tip portions of the first and second pole piece layers;
an insulation stack with at least one coil layer embedded therein located between the yoke portions of the first and second pole piece layers;
and
the first and second pole piece layers being connected at their back gap portions;
the read head including:
a spin valve sensor;
nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers;
the spin valve sensor being located between the first and second read gap layers;
ferromagnetic first and second shield layers;
and
the first and second read gap layers being located between the first and second shield layers;
the spin valve sensor including:
a ferromagnetic free layer structure;
first and second antiparallel (AP) pinned layers;
a nonmagnetic conductive first spacer layer between the free layer structure and the first AP pinned layer and a nonmagnetic conductive second spacer layer between the free layer structure and the second AP pinned layer;
an antiferromagnetic first pinning layer exchange coupled to the first AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the first AP pinned layer in a first direction;
and
an antiferromagnetic second pinning layer exchange coupled to the second AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the second AP pinned layer in a second direction;
and
all of the layers between the free layer structure and the first read gap layer being less conductive or more conductive than all of the layers between the free layer structure and the second read gap layer so that when a sense current is conducted through the sensor in a predetermined direction a net sense current field is exerted on the free layer structure to oppose a net demagnetizing field and a net ferromagnetic coupling field exerted on the free layer structure by the first and second AP pinned layers;
a housing;
a magnetic disk rotatably supported in the housing;
a support mounted in the housing for supporting the magnetic head assembly with said air bearing surface facing the magnetic disk so that the magnetic head assembly is in a transducing relationship with the magnetic disk;
a spindle motor for rotating the magnetic disk;
an actuator positioning means connected to the support for moving the magnetic head assembly to multiple positions with respect to said magnetic disk;
and
a processor connected to the magnetic head assembly, to the spindle motor and to the actuator for exchanging signals with the magnetic head, for controlling movement of the magnetic disk and for controlling the position of the magnetic head assembly.

26 more elements

A magnetic disk drive, which has a magnetic head assembly wherein the magnetic head assembly has an air bearing surface and write and read heads, comprising:

the write head including:
ferromagnetic first and second pole piece layers that have a yoke portion located between a pole tip portion and a back gap portion;
a nonmagnetic write gap layer located between the pole tip portions of the first and second pole piece layers;
an insulation stack with at least one coil layer embedded therein located between the yoke portions of the first and second pole piece layers;
and
the first and second pole piece layers being connected at their back gap portions;
the read head including:
a spin valve sensor;
nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers;
the spin valve sensor being located between the first and second read gap layers;
ferromagnetic first and second shield layers;
and
the first and second read gap layers being located between the first and second shield layers;
the spin valve sensor including:
a ferromagnetic free layer structure;
first and second antiparallel (AP) pinned layers;
a nonmagnetic conductive first spacer layer between the free layer structure and the first AP pinned layer and a nonmagnetic conductive second spacer layer between the free layer structure and the second AP pinned layer;
an antiferromagnetic first pinning layer exchange coupled to the first AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the first AP pinned layer in a first direction;
and
an antiferromagnetic second pinning layer exchange coupled to the second AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the second AP pinned layer in a second direction;
all of the layers between the free layer structure and the first read gap layer being less conductive or more conductive than all of the layers between the free layer structure and the second read gap layer so that when a sense current is conducted through the sensor in a predetermined direction a net sense current field is exerted on the free layer structure to oppose a net demagnetizing field and a net ferromagnetic coupling field exerted on the free layer structure by the first and second AP pinned layers;
the second AP pinned layer being more conductive than the first AP pinned layer;
the first AP pinned layer having a first antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic first and second AP pinned films;
the second AP pinned layer having a second antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic third and fourth AP pinned films;
the first AP film being exchange coupled to the first pinning layer and the third AP pinned film being exchange coupled to the second pinning layer;
the third AP pinned film having a thickness that is greater than the fourth AP pinned film, the fourth AP pinned layer film having a thickness that is greater than the first AP pinned layer film and the first AP pinned layer film having a thickness that is greater than the second AP pinned layer film;
and
the first, second, third and fourth AP pinned films being composed of a same material;
a housing;
a magnetic disk rotatably supported in the housing;
a support mounted in the housing for supporting the magnetic head assembly with said air bearing surface facing the magnetic disk so that the magnetic head assembly is in a transducing relationship with the magnetic disk;
a spindle motor for rotating the magnetic disk;
an actuator positioning means connected to the support for moving the magnetic head assembly to multiple positions with respect to said magnetic disk;
and
a processor connected to the magnetic head assembly, to the spindle motor and to the actuator for exchanging signals with the magnetic head assembly, for controlling movement of the magnetic disk and for controlling the position of the magnetic head assembly.

32 more elements

A magnetic disk drive, which has a magnetic head assembly wherein the magnetic head assembly has an air bearing surface and write and read heads, comprising:

the write head including:
ferromagnetic first and second pole piece layers that have a yoke portion located between a pole tip portion and a back gap portion;
a nonmagnetic write gap layer located between the pole tip portions of the first and second pole piece layers;
an insulation stack with at least one coil layer embedded therein located between the yoke portions of the first and second pole piece layers;
and
the first and second pole piece layers being connected at their back gap portions;
the read head including:
a spin valve sensor;
nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers;
the spin valve sensor being located between the first and second read gap layers;
ferromagnetic first and second shield layers;
and
the first and second read gap layers being located between the first and second shield layers;
the spin valve sensor including:
a ferromagnetic free layer structure;
first and second antiparallel (AP) pinned layers;
a nonmagnetic conductive first spacer layer between the free layer structure and the first AP pinned layer and a nonmagnetic conductive second spacer layer between the free layer structure and the second AP pinned layer;
an antiferromagnetic first pinning layer exchange coupled to the first AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the first AP pinned layer in a first direction;
and
an antiferromagnetic second pinning layer exchange coupled to the second AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the second AP pinned layer in a second direction;
all of the layers between the free layer structure and the first read gap layer being less conductive or more conductive than all of the layers between the free layer structure and the second read gap layer so that when a sense current is conducted through the sensor in a predetermined direction a net sense current field is exerted on the free layer structure to oppose a net demagnetizing field and a net ferromagnetic coupling field exerted on the free layer structure by the first and second AP pinned layers;
the second AP pinned layer being more conductive than the first AP pinned layer;
the first AP pinned layer having a first antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic first and second AP pinned films;
the second AP pinned layer having a second antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic third and fourth AP pinned films;
the first AP film being exchange coupled to the first pinning layer and the third AP pinned film being exchange coupled to the second pinning layer;
the first and third AP pinned films having an equal thickness and the second and fourth AP pinned layer films having an equal thickness;
each of the first and third AP pinned films having a greater thickness than each of the second and fourth AP pinned layer films;
and
the first, second, third and fourth AP pinned films being composed of a same material;
a housing;
a magnetic disk rotatably supported in the housing;
a support mounted in the housing for supporting the magnetic head assembly with said air bearing surface facing the magnetic disk so that the magnetic head assembly is in a transducing relationship with the magnetic disk;
a spindle motor for rotating the magnetic disk;
an actuator positioning means connected to the support for moving the magnetic head assembly to multiple positions with respect to said magnetic disk;
and
a processor connected to the magnetic head assembly, to the spindle motor and to the actuator for exchanging signals with the magnetic head, for controlling movement of the magnetic disk and for controlling the position of the magnetic head assembly.

33 more elements

A method of making a magnetic read head comprising:

forming nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers with a spin valve sensor formed between the first and second read gap layers;
and
forming ferromagnetic first and second shield layers with the first and second read gap layers being formed between the first and second shield layers;
a making of the spin valve sensor comprising the steps of:
forming a ferromagnetic free layer structure;
forming first and second antiparallel (AP) pinned layers;
forming a nonmagnetic conductive first spacer layer between the free layer structure and the first AP pinned layer and a nonmagnetic conductive second spacer layer between the free layer structure and the second AP pinned layer;
forming an antiferromagnetic first pinning layer exchange coupled to the first AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the first AP pinned layer in a first direction;
and
forming an antiferromagnetic second pinning layer exchange coupled to the second AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the second AP pinned layer in a second direction;
all of the layers between the free layer structure and the first read gap layer being formed less conductive or more conductive than all of the layers between the free layer structure and the second read gap layer so that when a sense current is conducted through the sensor in a predetermined direction a net sense current field is exerted on the free layer structure to oppose a net demagnetizing field and a net ferromagnetic coupling field exerted on the free layer structure by the first and second AP pinned layers;
the second AP pinned layer being formed more conductive than the first AP pinned layer;
the first AP pinned layer being formed with a first antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic first and second AP pinned films;
the second AP pinned layer being formed with a second antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic third and fourth AP pinned films;
the first AP film being exchange coupled to the first pinning layer and the third AP pinned film being exchange coupled to the second pinning layer;
the third AP pinned film being formed with a thickness that is greater than the fourth AP pinned film, the fourth AP pinned layer film being formed with a thickness that is greater than the first AP pinned layer film and the first AP pinned layer film being formed with a thickness that is greater than the second AP pinned layer film;
and
the first, second, third and fourth AP pinned films being formed of a same material.

15 more elements

A method of making a magnetic read head comprising:

forming nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers with a spin valve sensor formed between the first and second read gap layers;
and
forming ferromagnetic first and second shield layers with the first and second read gap layers being formed between the first and second shield layers;
a making of the spin valve sensor comprising the steps of:
forming a ferromagnetic free layer structure;
forming first and second antiparallel (AP) pinned layers;
forming a nonmagnetic conductive first spacer layer between the free layer structure and the first AP pinned layer and a nonmagnetic conductive second spacer layer between the free layer structure and the second AP pinned layer;
forming an antiferromagnetic first pinning layer exchange coupled to the first AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the first AP pinned layer in a first direction;
and
forming an antiferromagnetic second pinning layer exchange coupled to the second AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the second AP pinned layer in a second direction;
all of the layers between the free layer structure and the first read gap layer being formed less conductive or more conductive than all of the layers between the free layer structure and the second read gap layer so that when a sense current is conducted through the sensor in a predetermined direction a net sense current field is exerted on the free layer structure to oppose a net demagnetizing field and a net ferromagnetic coupling field exerted on the free layer structure by the first and second AP pinned layers;
the second AP pinned layer being formed more conductive than the first AP pinned layer;
the first AP pinned layer being formed with a first antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic first and second AP pinned films;
the second AP pinned layer being formed with a second antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic third and fourth AP pinned films;
the first AP film being exchange coupled to the first pinning layer and the third AP pinned film being exchange coupled to the second pinning layer;
the first and third AP pinned films being formed with equal thicknesses and the second and fourth AP pinned layer films being formed with equal thicknesses;
each of the first and third AP pinned films being formed with a greater thickness than each of the second and fourth AP pinned layer films;
and
the first, second, third and fourth AP pinned films being formed of a same material.

16 more elements

A method of making a magnetic head assembly, which has an air bearing surface (ABS), comprising the steps of:

making a write head comprising the steps of:
forming ferromagnetic first and second pole piece layers in pole tip, yoke and back regions wherein the yoke region is located between the pole tip and back gap regions;
forming a nonmagnetic nonconductive write gap layer between the first and second pole piece layers in the pole tip region;
forming an insulation stack with at least one coil layer embedded therein between the first and second pole piece layers in the yoke region;
and
connecting the first and second pole piece layers at said back gap region;
making a read head comprising the steps of:
forming nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers with a spin valve sensor formed between the first and second read gap layers;
and
forming ferromagnetic first and second shield layers with the first and second read gap layers formed between the first and second shield layers;
forming the spin valve sensor and nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers with the spin valve sensor located between the first and second read gap layers;
and
forming ferromagnetic first and second shield layers with the first and second read gap layers located between the first and second shield layers;
making the spin valve sensor comprising the steps of:
forming a ferromagnetic free layer structure;
forming first and second antiparallel (AP) pinned layers;
forming a nonmagnetic conductive first spacer layer between the free layer structure and the first AP pinned layer and a nonmagnetic conductive second spacer layer between the free layer structure and the second AP pinned layer;
forming an antiferromagnetic first pinning layer exchange coupled to the first AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the first AP pinned layer in a first direction;
forming an antiferromagnetic second pinning layer exchange coupled to the second AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the second AP pinned layer in a second direction;
and
all of the layers between the free layer structure and the first read gap layer being formed less conductive or more conductive than all of the layers between the free layer structure and the second read gap layer so that when a sense current is conducted through the sensor in a predetermined direction a net sense current field is exerted on the free layer structure to oppose a net demagnetizing field and a net ferromagnetic coupling field exerted on the free layer structure by the first and second AP pinned layers.

18 more elements

A method of making a magnetic head assembly, which has an air bearing surface (ABS), comprising the steps of:

making a write head comprising the steps of:
forming ferromagnetic first and second pole piece layers in pole tip, yoke and back regions wherein the yoke region is located between the pole tip and back gap regions;
forming a nonmagnetic nonconductive write gap layer between the first and second pole piece layers in the pole tip region;
forming an insulation stack with at least one coil layer embedded therein between the first and second pole piece layers in the yoke region;
and
connecting the first and second pole piece layers at said back gap region;
making a read head comprising the steps of:
forming nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers with a spin valve sensor formed between the first and second read gap layers;
and
forming ferromagnetic first and second shield layers with the first and second read gap layers formed between the first and second shield layers;
forming the spin valve sensor and nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers with the spin valve sensor located between the first and second read gap layers;
and
forming ferromagnetic first and second shield layers with the first and second read gap layers located between the first and second shield layers;
making the spin valve sensor comprising the steps of:
forming a ferromagnetic free layer structure;
forming first and second antiparallel (AP) pinned layers;
forming a nonmagnetic conductive first spacer layer between the free layer structure and the first AP pinned layer and a nonmagnetic conductive second spacer layer between the free layer structure and the second AP pinned layer;
forming an antiferromagnetic first pinning layer exchange coupled to the first AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the first AP pinned layer in a first direction;
forming an antiferromagnetic second pinning layer exchange coupled to the second AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the second AP pinned layer in a second direction;
all of the layers between the free layer structure and the first read gap layer being formed less conductive or more conductive than all of the layers between the free layer structure and the second read gap layer so that when a sense current is conducted through the sensor in a predetermined direction a net sense current field is exerted on the free layer structure to oppose a net demagnetizing field and a net ferromagnetic coupling field exerted on the free layer structure by the first and second AP pinned layers;
the second AP pinned layer being formed more conductive than the first AP pinned layer;
the first AP pinned layer being formed with a first antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic first and second AP pinned films;
the second AP pinned layer being formed with a second antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic third and fourth AP pinned films;
the first AP film being exchange coupled to the first pinning layer and the third AP pinned film being exchange coupled to the second pinning layer;
the third AP pinned film being formed with a thickness that is greater than the fourth AP pinned film, the fourth AP pinned layer film being formed with a thickness that is greater than the first AP pinned layer film and the first AP pinned layer film being formed with a thickness that is greater than the second AP pinned layer film;
and
the first, second, third and fourth AP pinned films being formed of a same material.

24 more elements

A method of making a magnetic head assembly, which has an air bearing surface (ABS), comprising the steps of:

making a write head comprising the steps of:
forming ferromagnetic first and second pole piece layers in pole tip, yoke and back regions wherein the yoke region is located between the pole tip and back gap regions;
forming a nonmagnetic nonconductive write gap layer between the first and second pole piece layers in the pole tip region;
forming an insulation stack with at least one coil layer embedded therein between the first and second pole piece layers in the yoke region;
and
connecting the first and second pole piece layers at said back gap region;
making a read head comprising the steps of:
forming nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers with a spin valve sensor formed between the first and second read gap layers;
and
forming ferromagnetic first and second shield layers with the first and second read gap layers formed between the first and second shield layers;
forming the spin valve sensor and nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers with the spin valve sensor located between the first and second read gap layers;
and
forming ferromagnetic first and second shield layers with the first and second read gap layers located between the first and second shield layers;
making the spin valve sensor comprising the steps of:
forming a ferromagnetic free layer structure;
forming first and second antiparallel (AP) pinned layers;
forming a nonmagnetic conductive first spacer layer between the free layer structure and the first AP pinned layer and a nonmagnetic conductive second spacer layer between the free layer structure and the second AP pinned layer;
forming an antiferromagnetic first pinning layer exchange coupled to the first AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the first AP pinned layer in a first direction;
forming an antiferromagnetic second pinning layer exchange coupled to the second AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the second AP pinned layer in a second direction;
all of the layers between the free layer structure and the first read gap layer being formed less conductive or more conductive than all of the layers between the free layer structure and the second read gap layer so that when a sense current is conducted through the sensor in a predetermined direction a net sense current field is exerted on the free layer structure to oppose a net demagnetizing field and a net ferromagnetic coupling field exerted on the free layer structure by the first and second AP pinned layers;
the second AP pinned layer being formed more conductive than the first AP pinned layer;
the first AP pinned layer being formed with a first antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic first and second AP pinned films;
the second AP pinned layer being formed with a second antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic third and fourth AP pinned films;
the first AP film being exchange coupled to the first pinning layer and the third AP pinned film being exchange coupled to the second pinning layer;
the first and third AP pinned films being formed with equal thicknesses and the second and fourth AP pinned layer films being formed with equal thicknesses;
each of the first and third AP pinned films being formed with a greater thickness than each of the second and fourth AP pinned layer films;
and
the first, second, third and fourth AP pinned films being formed of a same material.

25 more elements

A method of making a magnetic head assembly, which has an air bearing surface (ABS), comprising the steps of:

making a write head comprising the steps of:
forming ferromagnetic first and second pole piece layers in pole tip, yoke and back regions wherein the yoke region is located between the pole tip and back gap regions;
forming a nonmagnetic nonconductive write gap layer between the first and second pole piece layers in the pole tip region;
forming an insulation stack with at least one coil layer embedded therein between the first and second pole piece layers in the yoke region;
and
connecting the first and second pole piece layers at said back gap region;
making a read head comprising the steps of:
forming nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers with a spin valve sensor formed between the first and second read gap layers;
and
forming ferromagnetic first and second shield layers with the first and second read gap layers formed between the first and second shield layers;
forming the spin valve sensor and nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers with the spin valve sensor located between the first and second read gap layers;
and
forming ferromagnetic first and second shield layers with the first and second read gap layers located between the first and second shield layers;
making the spin valve sensor comprising the steps of:
forming a ferromagnetic free layer structure;
forming first and second antiparallel (AP) pinned layers;
forming a nonmagnetic conductive first spacer layer between the free layer structure and the first AP pinned layer and a nonmagnetic conductive second spacer layer between the free layer structure and the second AP pinned layer;
forming an antiferromagnetic first pinning layer exchange coupled to the first AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the first AP pinned layer in a first direction;
forming an antiferromagnetic second pinning layer exchange coupled to the second AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the second AP pinned layer in a second direction;
all of the layers between the free layer structure and the first read gap layer being formed less conductive or more conductive than all of the layers between the free layer structure and the second read gap layer so that when a sense current is conducted through the sensor in a predetermined direction a net sense current field is exerted on the free layer structure to oppose a net demagnetizing field and a net ferromagnetic coupling field exerted on the free layer structure by the first and second AP pinned layers;
the second AP pinned layer being formed more conductive than the first AP pinned layer;
the first AP pinned layer being formed with a first antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic first and second AP pinned films;
the second AP pinned layer being formed with a second antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic third and fourth AP pinned films;
the first AP film being exchange coupled to the first pinning layer and the third AP pinned film being exchange coupled to the second pinning layer;
the third AP pinned film being formed with a thickness that is greater than the fourth AP pinned film, the fourth AP pinned layer film being formed with a thickness that is greater than the first AP pinned layer film and the first AP pinned layer film being formed with a thickness that is greater than the second AP pinned layer film;
and
the first, second, third and fourth AP pinned films being formed of a same material.

24 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Facts

Application

09/594,236Filed 14 Jun 2000

Granted

15 Apr 2003

Term ends

Not estimatedThe source records don’t support an estimate.

Classification6 codes

G11B 5/3954
The active elements being arranged on several parallel planes: the active elements transducing on a single track
B82Y 10/00
Nanotechnology for information processing, storage or transmission
G11B 5/3903
Using magneto-resistive devices or effects: using magnetic thin film layers or their effects, the films being part of integrated structures
G11B 2005/0008
Arrangements, methods or circuits: magnetic conditionning of heads, e.g. biasing

Abstract

Claims45

Dependent claims

A magnetic read head comprising:

a spin valve sensor;
nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers;
the spin valve sensor being located between the first and second read gap layers;
ferromagnetic first and second shield layers;
and
the first and second read gap layers being located between the first and second shield layers;
the spin valve sensor including:
a ferromagnetic free layer structure;
first and second antiparallel (AP) pinned layers;
a nonmagnetic conductive first spacer layer between the free layer structure and the first AP pinned layer and a nonmagnetic conductive second spacer layer between the free layer structure and the second AP pinned layer;
an antiferromagnetic first pinning layer exchange coupled to the first AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the first AP pinned layer in a first direction;
and
an antiferromagnetic second pinning layer exchange coupled to the second AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the second AP pinned layer in a second direction;
and
all of the layers between the free layer structure and the first read gap layer being less conductive or more conductive than all of the layers between the free layer structure and the second read gap layer so that when a sense current is conducted through the sensor in a predetermined direction a net sense current field is exerted on the free layer structure to oppose a net demagnetizing field and a net ferromagnetic coupling field exerted on the free layer structure by the first and second AP pinned layers.

12 more elements

A magnetic read head comprising:

a spin valve sensor;
nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers;
the spin valve sensor being located between the first and second read gap layers;
ferromagnetic first and second shield layers;
and
the first and second read gap layers being located between the first and second shield layers;
the spin valve sensor including:
a ferromagnetic free layer structure;
first and second antiparallel (AP) pinned layers;
a nonmagnetic conductive first spacer layer between the free layer structure and the first AP pinned layer and a nonmagnetic conductive second spacer layer between the free layer structure and the second AP pinned layer;
an antiferromagnetic first pinning layer exchange coupled to the first AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the first AP pinned layer in a first direction;
and
an antiferromagnetic second pinning layer exchange coupled to the second AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the second AP pinned layer in a second direction;
all of the layers between the free layer structure and the first read gap layer being less conductive or more conductive than all of the layers between the free layer structure and the second read gap layer so that when a sense current is conducted through the sensor in a predetermined direction a net sense current field is exerted on the free layer structure to oppose a net demagnetizing field and a net ferromagnetic coupling field exerted on the free layer structure by the first and second AP pinned layers;
the second AP pinned layer being more conductive than the first AP pinned layer;
the first AP pinned layer having a first antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic first and second AP pinned films;
the second AP pinned layer having a second antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic third and fourth AP pinned films;
the first AP film being exchange coupled to the first pinning layer and the third AP pinned film being exchange coupled to the second pinning layer;
the third AP pinned film having a thickness that is greater than the fourth AP pinned film, the fourth AP pinned layer film having a thickness that is greater than the first AP pinned layer film and the first AP pinned layer film having a thickness that is greater than the second AP pinned layer film;
and
the first, second, third and fourth AP pinned films being composed of a same material.

18 more elements

A magnetic read head comprising:

a spin valve sensor;
nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers;
the spin valve sensor being located between the first and second read gap layers;
ferromagnetic first and second shield layers;
and
the first and second read gap layers being located between the first and second shield layers;
the spin valve sensor including:
a ferromagnetic free layer structure;
first and second antiparallel (AP) pinned layers;
a nonmagnetic conductive first spacer layer between the free layer structure and the first AP pinned layer and a nonmagnetic conductive second spacer layer between the free layer structure and the second AP pinned layer;
an antiferromagnetic first pinning layer exchange coupled to the first AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the first AP pinned layer in a first direction;
and
an antiferromagnetic second pinning layer exchange coupled to the second AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the second AP pinned layer in a second direction;
all of the layers between the free layer structure and the first read gap layer being less conductive or more conductive than all of the layers between the free layer structure and the second read gap layer so that when a sense current is conducted through the sensor in a predetermined direction a net sense current field is exerted on the free layer structure to oppose a net demagnetizing field and a net ferromagnetic coupling field exerted on the free layer structure by the first and second AP pinned layers;
the second AP pinned layer being more conductive than the first AP pinned layer;
the first AP pinned layer having a first antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic first and second AP pinned films;
the second AP pinned layer having a second antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic third and fourth AP pinned films;
the first AP film being exchange coupled to the first pinning layer and the third AP pinned film being exchange coupled to the second pinning layer;
the first and third AP pinned films having an equal thickness and the second and fourth AP pinned layer films having an equal thickness;
each of the first and third AP pinned films having a greater thickness than each of the second and fourth AP pinned layer films;
and
the first, second, third and fourth AP pinned films being composed of a same material.

19 more elements

A magnetic head assembly, having an air bearing surface (ABS), comprising:

a write head including:
ferromagnetic first and second pole piece layers that have a yoke portion located between a pole tip portion and a back gap portion;
a nonmagnetic write gap layer located between the pole tip portions of the first and second pole piece layers;
an insulation stack with at least one coil layer embedded therein located between the yoke portions of the first and second pole piece layers;
and
the first and second pole piece layers being connected at their back gap portions;
a read head including:
a spin valve sensor;
nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers;
the spin valve sensor being located between the first and second read gap layers;
ferromagnetic first and second shield layers;
and
the first and second read gap layers being located between the first and second shield layers;
the spin valve sensor including:
a ferromagnetic free layer structure;
first and second antiparallel (AP) pinned layers;
a nonmagnetic conductive first spacer layer between the free layer structure and the first AP pinned layer and a nonmagnetic conductive second spacer layer between the free layer structure and the second AP pinned layer;
an antiferromagnetic first pinning layer exchange coupled to the first AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the first AP pinned layer in a first direction;
and
an antiferromagnetic second pinning layer exchange coupled to the second AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the second AP pinned layer in a second direction;
and
all of the layers between the free layer structure and the first read gap layer being less conductive or more conductive than all of the layers between the free layer structure and the second read gap layer so that when a sense current is conducted through the sensor in a predetermined direction a net sense current field is exerted on the free layer structure to oppose a net demagnetizing field and a net ferromagnetic coupling field exerted on the free layer structure by the first and second AP pinned layers.

19 more elements

A magnetic head assembly having an air bearing surface (ABS), comprising:

a write head including:
ferromagnetic first and second pole piece layers that have a yoke portion located between a pole tip portion and a back gap portion;
a nonmagnetic write gap layer located between the pole tip portions of the first and second pole piece layers;
an insulation stack with at least one coil layer embedded therein located between the yoke portions of the first and second pole piece layers;
and
the first and second pole piece layers being connected at their back gap portions;
a read head including:
a spin valve sensor;
nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers;
the spin valve sensor being located between the first and second read gap layers;
ferromagnetic first and second shield layers;
and
the first and second read gap layers being located between the first and second shield layers;
the spin valve sensor including:
a ferromagnetic free layer structure;
first and second antiparallel (AP) pinned layers;
a nonmagnetic conductive first spacer layer between the free layer structure and the first AP pinned layer and a nonmagnetic conductive second spacer layer between the free layer structure and the second AP pinned layer;
an antiferromagnetic first pinning layer exchange coupled to the first AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the first AP pinned layer in a first direction;
and
an antiferromagnetic second pinning layer exchange coupled to the second AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the second AP pinned layer in a second direction;
all of the layers between the free layer structure and the first read gap layer being less conductive or more conductive than all of the layers between the free layer structure and the second read gap layer so that when a sense current is conducted through the sensor in a predetermined direction a net sense current field is exerted on the free layer structure to oppose a net demagnetizing field and a net ferromagnetic coupling field exerted on the free layer structure by the first and second AP pinned layers;
the second AP pinned layer being more conductive than the first AP pinned layer;
the first AP pinned layer having a first antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic first and second AP pinned films;
the second AP pinned layer having a second antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic third and fourth AP pinned films;
the first AP film being exchange coupled to the first pinning layer and the third AP pinned film being exchange coupled to the second pinning layer;
the third AP pinned film having a thickness that is greater than the fourth AP pinned film, the fourth AP pinned layer film having a thickness that is greater than the first AP pinned layer film and the first AP pinned layer film having a thickness that is greater than the second AP pinned layer film;
and
the first, second, third and fourth AP pinned films being composed of a same material.

25 more elements

A magnetic head assembly having an air bearing surface (ABS), comprising:

a write head including:
ferromagnetic first and second pole piece layers that have a yoke portion located between a pole tip portion and a back gap portion;
a nonmagnetic write gap layer located between the pole tip portions of the first and second pole piece layers;
an insulation stack with at least one coil layer embedded therein located between the yoke portions of the first and second pole piece layers;
and
the first and second pole piece layers being connected at their back gap portions;
a read head including:
a spin valve sensor;
nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers;
the spin valve sensor being located between the first and second read gap layers;
ferromagnetic first and second shield layers;
and
the first and second read gap layers being located between the first and second shield layers;
the spin valve sensor including:
a ferromagnetic free layer structure;
first and second antiparallel (AP) pinned layers;
a nonmagnetic conductive first spacer layer between the free layer structure and the first AP pinned layer and a nonmagnetic conductive second spacer layer between the free layer structure and the second AP pinned layer;
an antiferromagnetic first pinning layer exchange coupled to the first AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the first AP pinned layer in a first direction;
and
an antiferromagnetic second pinning layer exchange coupled to the second AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the second AP pinned layer in a second direction;
all of the layers between the free layer structure and the first read gap layer being less conductive or more conductive than all of the layers between the free layer structure and the second read gap layer so that when a sense current is conducted through the sensor in a predetermined direction a net sense current field is exerted on the free layer structure to oppose a net demagnetizing field and a net ferromagnetic coupling field exerted on the free layer structure by the first and second AP pinned layers;
the second AP pinned layer being more conductive than the first AP pinned layer;
the first AP pinned layer having a first antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic first and second AP pinned films;
the second AP pinned layer having a second antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic third and fourth AP pinned films;
the first AP film being exchange coupled to the first pinning layer and the third AP pinned film being exchange coupled to the second pinning layer;
the first and third AP pinned films having an equal thickness and the second and fourth AP pinned layer films having an equal thickness;
each of the first and third AP pinned films having a greater thickness than each of the second and fourth AP pinned layer films;
and
the first, second, third and fourth AP pinned films being composed of a same material.

26 more elements

A magnetic disk drive, which has a magnetic head assembly wherein the magnetic head assembly has an air bearing surface and write and read heads, comprising:

the write head including:
ferromagnetic first and second pole piece layers that have a yoke portion located between a pole tip portion and a back gap portion;
a nonmagnetic write gap layer located between the pole tip portions of the first and second pole piece layers;
an insulation stack with at least one coil layer embedded therein located between the yoke portions of the first and second pole piece layers;
and
the first and second pole piece layers being connected at their back gap portions;
the read head including:
a spin valve sensor;
nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers;
the spin valve sensor being located between the first and second read gap layers;
ferromagnetic first and second shield layers;
and
the first and second read gap layers being located between the first and second shield layers;
the spin valve sensor including:
a ferromagnetic free layer structure;
first and second antiparallel (AP) pinned layers;
a nonmagnetic conductive first spacer layer between the free layer structure and the first AP pinned layer and a nonmagnetic conductive second spacer layer between the free layer structure and the second AP pinned layer;
an antiferromagnetic first pinning layer exchange coupled to the first AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the first AP pinned layer in a first direction;
and
an antiferromagnetic second pinning layer exchange coupled to the second AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the second AP pinned layer in a second direction;
and
all of the layers between the free layer structure and the first read gap layer being less conductive or more conductive than all of the layers between the free layer structure and the second read gap layer so that when a sense current is conducted through the sensor in a predetermined direction a net sense current field is exerted on the free layer structure to oppose a net demagnetizing field and a net ferromagnetic coupling field exerted on the free layer structure by the first and second AP pinned layers;
a housing;
a magnetic disk rotatably supported in the housing;
a support mounted in the housing for supporting the magnetic head assembly with said air bearing surface facing the magnetic disk so that the magnetic head assembly is in a transducing relationship with the magnetic disk;
a spindle motor for rotating the magnetic disk;
an actuator positioning means connected to the support for moving the magnetic head assembly to multiple positions with respect to said magnetic disk;
and
a processor connected to the magnetic head assembly, to the spindle motor and to the actuator for exchanging signals with the magnetic head, for controlling movement of the magnetic disk and for controlling the position of the magnetic head assembly.

26 more elements

A magnetic disk drive, which has a magnetic head assembly wherein the magnetic head assembly has an air bearing surface and write and read heads, comprising:

the write head including:
ferromagnetic first and second pole piece layers that have a yoke portion located between a pole tip portion and a back gap portion;
a nonmagnetic write gap layer located between the pole tip portions of the first and second pole piece layers;
an insulation stack with at least one coil layer embedded therein located between the yoke portions of the first and second pole piece layers;
and
the first and second pole piece layers being connected at their back gap portions;
the read head including:
a spin valve sensor;
nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers;
the spin valve sensor being located between the first and second read gap layers;
ferromagnetic first and second shield layers;
and
the first and second read gap layers being located between the first and second shield layers;
the spin valve sensor including:
a ferromagnetic free layer structure;
first and second antiparallel (AP) pinned layers;
a nonmagnetic conductive first spacer layer between the free layer structure and the first AP pinned layer and a nonmagnetic conductive second spacer layer between the free layer structure and the second AP pinned layer;
an antiferromagnetic first pinning layer exchange coupled to the first AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the first AP pinned layer in a first direction;
and
an antiferromagnetic second pinning layer exchange coupled to the second AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the second AP pinned layer in a second direction;
all of the layers between the free layer structure and the first read gap layer being less conductive or more conductive than all of the layers between the free layer structure and the second read gap layer so that when a sense current is conducted through the sensor in a predetermined direction a net sense current field is exerted on the free layer structure to oppose a net demagnetizing field and a net ferromagnetic coupling field exerted on the free layer structure by the first and second AP pinned layers;
the second AP pinned layer being more conductive than the first AP pinned layer;
the first AP pinned layer having a first antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic first and second AP pinned films;
the second AP pinned layer having a second antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic third and fourth AP pinned films;
the first AP film being exchange coupled to the first pinning layer and the third AP pinned film being exchange coupled to the second pinning layer;
the third AP pinned film having a thickness that is greater than the fourth AP pinned film, the fourth AP pinned layer film having a thickness that is greater than the first AP pinned layer film and the first AP pinned layer film having a thickness that is greater than the second AP pinned layer film;
and
the first, second, third and fourth AP pinned films being composed of a same material;
a housing;
a magnetic disk rotatably supported in the housing;
a support mounted in the housing for supporting the magnetic head assembly with said air bearing surface facing the magnetic disk so that the magnetic head assembly is in a transducing relationship with the magnetic disk;
a spindle motor for rotating the magnetic disk;
an actuator positioning means connected to the support for moving the magnetic head assembly to multiple positions with respect to said magnetic disk;
and
a processor connected to the magnetic head assembly, to the spindle motor and to the actuator for exchanging signals with the magnetic head assembly, for controlling movement of the magnetic disk and for controlling the position of the magnetic head assembly.

32 more elements

A magnetic disk drive, which has a magnetic head assembly wherein the magnetic head assembly has an air bearing surface and write and read heads, comprising:

the write head including:
ferromagnetic first and second pole piece layers that have a yoke portion located between a pole tip portion and a back gap portion;
a nonmagnetic write gap layer located between the pole tip portions of the first and second pole piece layers;
an insulation stack with at least one coil layer embedded therein located between the yoke portions of the first and second pole piece layers;
and
the first and second pole piece layers being connected at their back gap portions;
the read head including:
a spin valve sensor;
nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers;
the spin valve sensor being located between the first and second read gap layers;
ferromagnetic first and second shield layers;
and
the first and second read gap layers being located between the first and second shield layers;
the spin valve sensor including:
a ferromagnetic free layer structure;
first and second antiparallel (AP) pinned layers;
a nonmagnetic conductive first spacer layer between the free layer structure and the first AP pinned layer and a nonmagnetic conductive second spacer layer between the free layer structure and the second AP pinned layer;
an antiferromagnetic first pinning layer exchange coupled to the first AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the first AP pinned layer in a first direction;
and
an antiferromagnetic second pinning layer exchange coupled to the second AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the second AP pinned layer in a second direction;
all of the layers between the free layer structure and the first read gap layer being less conductive or more conductive than all of the layers between the free layer structure and the second read gap layer so that when a sense current is conducted through the sensor in a predetermined direction a net sense current field is exerted on the free layer structure to oppose a net demagnetizing field and a net ferromagnetic coupling field exerted on the free layer structure by the first and second AP pinned layers;
the second AP pinned layer being more conductive than the first AP pinned layer;
the first AP pinned layer having a first antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic first and second AP pinned films;
the second AP pinned layer having a second antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic third and fourth AP pinned films;
the first AP film being exchange coupled to the first pinning layer and the third AP pinned film being exchange coupled to the second pinning layer;
the first and third AP pinned films having an equal thickness and the second and fourth AP pinned layer films having an equal thickness;
each of the first and third AP pinned films having a greater thickness than each of the second and fourth AP pinned layer films;
and
the first, second, third and fourth AP pinned films being composed of a same material;
a housing;
a magnetic disk rotatably supported in the housing;
a support mounted in the housing for supporting the magnetic head assembly with said air bearing surface facing the magnetic disk so that the magnetic head assembly is in a transducing relationship with the magnetic disk;
a spindle motor for rotating the magnetic disk;
an actuator positioning means connected to the support for moving the magnetic head assembly to multiple positions with respect to said magnetic disk;
and
a processor connected to the magnetic head assembly, to the spindle motor and to the actuator for exchanging signals with the magnetic head, for controlling movement of the magnetic disk and for controlling the position of the magnetic head assembly.

33 more elements

A method of making a magnetic read head comprising:

forming nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers with a spin valve sensor formed between the first and second read gap layers;
and
forming ferromagnetic first and second shield layers with the first and second read gap layers being formed between the first and second shield layers;
a making of the spin valve sensor comprising the steps of:
forming a ferromagnetic free layer structure;
forming first and second antiparallel (AP) pinned layers;
forming a nonmagnetic conductive first spacer layer between the free layer structure and the first AP pinned layer and a nonmagnetic conductive second spacer layer between the free layer structure and the second AP pinned layer;
forming an antiferromagnetic first pinning layer exchange coupled to the first AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the first AP pinned layer in a first direction;
and
forming an antiferromagnetic second pinning layer exchange coupled to the second AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the second AP pinned layer in a second direction;
all of the layers between the free layer structure and the first read gap layer being formed less conductive or more conductive than all of the layers between the free layer structure and the second read gap layer so that when a sense current is conducted through the sensor in a predetermined direction a net sense current field is exerted on the free layer structure to oppose a net demagnetizing field and a net ferromagnetic coupling field exerted on the free layer structure by the first and second AP pinned layers;
the second AP pinned layer being formed more conductive than the first AP pinned layer;
the first AP pinned layer being formed with a first antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic first and second AP pinned films;
the second AP pinned layer being formed with a second antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic third and fourth AP pinned films;
the first AP film being exchange coupled to the first pinning layer and the third AP pinned film being exchange coupled to the second pinning layer;
the third AP pinned film being formed with a thickness that is greater than the fourth AP pinned film, the fourth AP pinned layer film being formed with a thickness that is greater than the first AP pinned layer film and the first AP pinned layer film being formed with a thickness that is greater than the second AP pinned layer film;
and
the first, second, third and fourth AP pinned films being formed of a same material.

15 more elements

A method of making a magnetic read head comprising:

forming nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers with a spin valve sensor formed between the first and second read gap layers;
and
forming ferromagnetic first and second shield layers with the first and second read gap layers being formed between the first and second shield layers;
a making of the spin valve sensor comprising the steps of:
forming a ferromagnetic free layer structure;
forming first and second antiparallel (AP) pinned layers;
forming a nonmagnetic conductive first spacer layer between the free layer structure and the first AP pinned layer and a nonmagnetic conductive second spacer layer between the free layer structure and the second AP pinned layer;
forming an antiferromagnetic first pinning layer exchange coupled to the first AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the first AP pinned layer in a first direction;
and
forming an antiferromagnetic second pinning layer exchange coupled to the second AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the second AP pinned layer in a second direction;
all of the layers between the free layer structure and the first read gap layer being formed less conductive or more conductive than all of the layers between the free layer structure and the second read gap layer so that when a sense current is conducted through the sensor in a predetermined direction a net sense current field is exerted on the free layer structure to oppose a net demagnetizing field and a net ferromagnetic coupling field exerted on the free layer structure by the first and second AP pinned layers;
the second AP pinned layer being formed more conductive than the first AP pinned layer;
the first AP pinned layer being formed with a first antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic first and second AP pinned films;
the second AP pinned layer being formed with a second antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic third and fourth AP pinned films;
the first AP film being exchange coupled to the first pinning layer and the third AP pinned film being exchange coupled to the second pinning layer;
the first and third AP pinned films being formed with equal thicknesses and the second and fourth AP pinned layer films being formed with equal thicknesses;
each of the first and third AP pinned films being formed with a greater thickness than each of the second and fourth AP pinned layer films;
and
the first, second, third and fourth AP pinned films being formed of a same material.

16 more elements

A method of making a magnetic head assembly, which has an air bearing surface (ABS), comprising the steps of:

making a write head comprising the steps of:
forming ferromagnetic first and second pole piece layers in pole tip, yoke and back regions wherein the yoke region is located between the pole tip and back gap regions;
forming a nonmagnetic nonconductive write gap layer between the first and second pole piece layers in the pole tip region;
forming an insulation stack with at least one coil layer embedded therein between the first and second pole piece layers in the yoke region;
and
connecting the first and second pole piece layers at said back gap region;
making a read head comprising the steps of:
forming nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers with a spin valve sensor formed between the first and second read gap layers;
and
forming ferromagnetic first and second shield layers with the first and second read gap layers formed between the first and second shield layers;
forming the spin valve sensor and nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers with the spin valve sensor located between the first and second read gap layers;
and
forming ferromagnetic first and second shield layers with the first and second read gap layers located between the first and second shield layers;
making the spin valve sensor comprising the steps of:
forming a ferromagnetic free layer structure;
forming first and second antiparallel (AP) pinned layers;
forming a nonmagnetic conductive first spacer layer between the free layer structure and the first AP pinned layer and a nonmagnetic conductive second spacer layer between the free layer structure and the second AP pinned layer;
forming an antiferromagnetic first pinning layer exchange coupled to the first AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the first AP pinned layer in a first direction;
forming an antiferromagnetic second pinning layer exchange coupled to the second AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the second AP pinned layer in a second direction;
and
all of the layers between the free layer structure and the first read gap layer being formed less conductive or more conductive than all of the layers between the free layer structure and the second read gap layer so that when a sense current is conducted through the sensor in a predetermined direction a net sense current field is exerted on the free layer structure to oppose a net demagnetizing field and a net ferromagnetic coupling field exerted on the free layer structure by the first and second AP pinned layers.

18 more elements

A method of making a magnetic head assembly, which has an air bearing surface (ABS), comprising the steps of:

making a write head comprising the steps of:
forming ferromagnetic first and second pole piece layers in pole tip, yoke and back regions wherein the yoke region is located between the pole tip and back gap regions;
forming a nonmagnetic nonconductive write gap layer between the first and second pole piece layers in the pole tip region;
forming an insulation stack with at least one coil layer embedded therein between the first and second pole piece layers in the yoke region;
and
connecting the first and second pole piece layers at said back gap region;
making a read head comprising the steps of:
forming nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers with a spin valve sensor formed between the first and second read gap layers;
and
forming ferromagnetic first and second shield layers with the first and second read gap layers formed between the first and second shield layers;
forming the spin valve sensor and nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers with the spin valve sensor located between the first and second read gap layers;
and
forming ferromagnetic first and second shield layers with the first and second read gap layers located between the first and second shield layers;
making the spin valve sensor comprising the steps of:
forming a ferromagnetic free layer structure;
forming first and second antiparallel (AP) pinned layers;
forming a nonmagnetic conductive first spacer layer between the free layer structure and the first AP pinned layer and a nonmagnetic conductive second spacer layer between the free layer structure and the second AP pinned layer;
forming an antiferromagnetic first pinning layer exchange coupled to the first AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the first AP pinned layer in a first direction;
forming an antiferromagnetic second pinning layer exchange coupled to the second AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the second AP pinned layer in a second direction;
all of the layers between the free layer structure and the first read gap layer being formed less conductive or more conductive than all of the layers between the free layer structure and the second read gap layer so that when a sense current is conducted through the sensor in a predetermined direction a net sense current field is exerted on the free layer structure to oppose a net demagnetizing field and a net ferromagnetic coupling field exerted on the free layer structure by the first and second AP pinned layers;
the second AP pinned layer being formed more conductive than the first AP pinned layer;
the first AP pinned layer being formed with a first antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic first and second AP pinned films;
the second AP pinned layer being formed with a second antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic third and fourth AP pinned films;
the first AP film being exchange coupled to the first pinning layer and the third AP pinned film being exchange coupled to the second pinning layer;
the third AP pinned film being formed with a thickness that is greater than the fourth AP pinned film, the fourth AP pinned layer film being formed with a thickness that is greater than the first AP pinned layer film and the first AP pinned layer film being formed with a thickness that is greater than the second AP pinned layer film;
and
the first, second, third and fourth AP pinned films being formed of a same material.

24 more elements

A method of making a magnetic head assembly, which has an air bearing surface (ABS), comprising the steps of:

making a write head comprising the steps of:
forming ferromagnetic first and second pole piece layers in pole tip, yoke and back regions wherein the yoke region is located between the pole tip and back gap regions;
forming a nonmagnetic nonconductive write gap layer between the first and second pole piece layers in the pole tip region;
forming an insulation stack with at least one coil layer embedded therein between the first and second pole piece layers in the yoke region;
and
connecting the first and second pole piece layers at said back gap region;
making a read head comprising the steps of:
forming nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers with a spin valve sensor formed between the first and second read gap layers;
and
forming ferromagnetic first and second shield layers with the first and second read gap layers formed between the first and second shield layers;
forming the spin valve sensor and nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers with the spin valve sensor located between the first and second read gap layers;
and
forming ferromagnetic first and second shield layers with the first and second read gap layers located between the first and second shield layers;
making the spin valve sensor comprising the steps of:
forming a ferromagnetic free layer structure;
forming first and second antiparallel (AP) pinned layers;
forming a nonmagnetic conductive first spacer layer between the free layer structure and the first AP pinned layer and a nonmagnetic conductive second spacer layer between the free layer structure and the second AP pinned layer;
forming an antiferromagnetic first pinning layer exchange coupled to the first AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the first AP pinned layer in a first direction;
forming an antiferromagnetic second pinning layer exchange coupled to the second AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the second AP pinned layer in a second direction;
all of the layers between the free layer structure and the first read gap layer being formed less conductive or more conductive than all of the layers between the free layer structure and the second read gap layer so that when a sense current is conducted through the sensor in a predetermined direction a net sense current field is exerted on the free layer structure to oppose a net demagnetizing field and a net ferromagnetic coupling field exerted on the free layer structure by the first and second AP pinned layers;
the second AP pinned layer being formed more conductive than the first AP pinned layer;
the first AP pinned layer being formed with a first antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic first and second AP pinned films;
the second AP pinned layer being formed with a second antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic third and fourth AP pinned films;
the first AP film being exchange coupled to the first pinning layer and the third AP pinned film being exchange coupled to the second pinning layer;
the first and third AP pinned films being formed with equal thicknesses and the second and fourth AP pinned layer films being formed with equal thicknesses;
each of the first and third AP pinned films being formed with a greater thickness than each of the second and fourth AP pinned layer films;
and
the first, second, third and fourth AP pinned films being formed of a same material.

25 more elements

A method of making a magnetic head assembly, which has an air bearing surface (ABS), comprising the steps of:

making a write head comprising the steps of:
forming ferromagnetic first and second pole piece layers in pole tip, yoke and back regions wherein the yoke region is located between the pole tip and back gap regions;
forming a nonmagnetic nonconductive write gap layer between the first and second pole piece layers in the pole tip region;
forming an insulation stack with at least one coil layer embedded therein between the first and second pole piece layers in the yoke region;
and
connecting the first and second pole piece layers at said back gap region;
making a read head comprising the steps of:
forming nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers with a spin valve sensor formed between the first and second read gap layers;
and
forming ferromagnetic first and second shield layers with the first and second read gap layers formed between the first and second shield layers;
forming the spin valve sensor and nonmagnetic insulative first and second read gap layers with the spin valve sensor located between the first and second read gap layers;
and
forming ferromagnetic first and second shield layers with the first and second read gap layers located between the first and second shield layers;
making the spin valve sensor comprising the steps of:
forming a ferromagnetic free layer structure;
forming first and second antiparallel (AP) pinned layers;
forming a nonmagnetic conductive first spacer layer between the free layer structure and the first AP pinned layer and a nonmagnetic conductive second spacer layer between the free layer structure and the second AP pinned layer;
forming an antiferromagnetic first pinning layer exchange coupled to the first AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the first AP pinned layer in a first direction;
forming an antiferromagnetic second pinning layer exchange coupled to the second AP pinned layer for pinning a magnetic moment of the second AP pinned layer in a second direction;
all of the layers between the free layer structure and the first read gap layer being formed less conductive or more conductive than all of the layers between the free layer structure and the second read gap layer so that when a sense current is conducted through the sensor in a predetermined direction a net sense current field is exerted on the free layer structure to oppose a net demagnetizing field and a net ferromagnetic coupling field exerted on the free layer structure by the first and second AP pinned layers;
the second AP pinned layer being formed more conductive than the first AP pinned layer;
the first AP pinned layer being formed with a first antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic first and second AP pinned films;
the second AP pinned layer being formed with a second antiparallel (AP) coupling film which is located between ferromagnetic third and fourth AP pinned films;
the first AP film being exchange coupled to the first pinning layer and the third AP pinned film being exchange coupled to the second pinning layer;
the third AP pinned film being formed with a thickness that is greater than the fourth AP pinned film, the fourth AP pinned layer film being formed with a thickness that is greater than the first AP pinned layer film and the first AP pinned layer film being formed with a thickness that is greater than the second AP pinned layer film;
and
the first, second, third and fourth AP pinned films being formed of a same material.

24 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Read head with asymmetric dual AP pinned spin valve sensor

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims45

Read head with asymmetric dual AP pinned spin valve sensor

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims45