INTEGRATING AN MR HEAD INTO A PEAK DETECTION CHANNEL

Integrating an MR head into a peak detection channel requires the engineer to deal with basic differences between MR and thin film heads. These differences result from nonlinear sensor response, separate write and read elements, and having an active element at the ABS. A simple model for flux superposition can adequately address nonlinear effects and be used for equalization design. Timing budgets can be developed which demonstrate the dominance of media noise for present day systems. Single threshold qualification can handle most current system requirements. Separate read/write elements mean that more attention needs to be paid to offtrack equalization design and head dimensional tolerancing. An active element at the ABS requires better control of the head-disc potential and leakage currents.