High field-gradient design of single-pole write-head with planar pole structure

A planar single-pole head generating a large head field was investigated to improve head field distribution with a steep field gradient. Good writing performance is generally difficult for a narrow track writer. This work presents a novel design of the main pole shape, the three-step-slope, to achieve a high gradient and strong write head field for terabit recording. Furthermore, the medium design was investigated to increase head-to-medium interaction for achieving a high field gradient and narrow field distribution. A soft guard band in the recording layer and a cross-track groove on the SUL surface were effective for improving the field gradient.