Statistical analysis of signal and noise in magnetic recording

A general theory is developed for the power spectrum of the induced voltage at the read head in magnetic recording, originating from the particulate nature of the tape. The theory is general in that it yields the signal power as well as the noise spectrum, including the effects of clustered particulate media. The statistics of all relevant parameters such as particle length, particle magnetic moment, and partial penetration of the signal into the layer have been taken into account. Experiments on nonoriented Fe2O3showed a discrepancy at short wavelengths of the order of 10 dB. This is qualitatively explained by particle interaction mechanisms.