Selection of modulation code parameters for maximum lineal density

The relative performance capabilities for many known run-length-limited binary modulation codes useful in digital magnetic recording are placed in perspective. The criteria for grading is relative maximum achievable lineal recording density under conditions of quasi-optimal spectral shaping. The results are based upon a linear system analysis in which superposition is applicable in modeling saturation recording systems where the media is indeed fully saturated at the termination of each transition. The maximum relative achievable lineal density is shown in terms of code parameters for maximum theoretical information rate with run constraints. The results show which binary modulation code to select for maximal lineal density and how its performance compares with the maximum theoretically achievable for any binary modulation code.