MAGNETO AND MAGNETOOPTICAL RECORDING MATERIALS

In this paper, magneto and magneto-optical recording materials are rev iewed, and the related recording methods are also briefly described. A n outline of the historical development is given. Emphasis is placed o n a description of the magnetic characteristics of the materials (part iculate media and films) and their preparation methods, and a comparis on is made of the media properties related to the different applicatio ns (audio, video, and digital recording). The potentialities of magnet o-optical technology are discussed, and a comparison made with traditi onal recording methods. The new possibilities offered by the growth of multilayered films, with unusual magnetic characteristics, are analyz ed.