TRIBOLOGY IN ULTRA-HIGH DENSITY TAPE DRIVE SYSTEMS - STATE-OF-THE-ARTAND FUTURE CHALLENGES

Advanced ultra-high density tape drives require ever increasing volume tric recording densities which places a premium on the tribology of th e head-to-tape interface. For these drives, ultrathin smooth tapes wou ld be in contact or near contact with the recording head at high relat ive velocities. Minimum friction, near zero wear with stable magnetic performance over a wide range of operating conditions is required for adequate performance. There are considerable tribological challenges r elated to both recording heads and media to be used in these systems,, Some of the many challenges In the design of these drives are: attain ing low air bearing surface-wear, attaining and maintaining low pole t ip recession, developing durable tape media,and developing dimensional ly substrates with high modulus for ultra-thin tapes.