17 Gb/in2 areal density demonstration at 214 Mb/s

We have simultaneously demonstrated high areal density and high data rate, in an experiment that closely mimics the operation of disc drive products. The system involves thin-film media, GMR merged heads, broad bandwidth electronics, and an EPR4 channel with post-processing. The results presented reflect a statistical sample of components, rather than one-of-a-kind devices. In order to determine the areal density accomplished, we demanded that the bit error rate performance be insensitive to significant deviations of the head position from the recorded track center. We present a thorough description of the components and the SNR budget. The areal density accomplished varies between 15.1 Gb/in² at 193 Mb/s, and 17.1 Gb/in² at 214 Mb/s. A series of areal density capability assessments was obtained by applying various margin conditions. This was done to demonstrate robust experimental results. The outcome of this work may be applied to product development.