Finite element analysis of metal-in-gap head write-fields

The authors employ the two-dimensional (2D) non-linear finite element analysis to analyze the write field, in order to optimize the design of metal-in-gap (MIG) heads. They clarify the contribution of the MIG head to increases in the linear recording density, focusing on not only the strength but also the gradient of the write field. Finally, they describe the trial fabrication of heads reflecting the analysis results, and show that the read/write characteristics expected on the basis of the write field analysis were actually obtained.