Magnetic reorientation for high-density magneto-optical recording

We describe a magnetic super-resolution readout process based on a change o f the magnetization orientation at high temperature. To realize this proces s we propose a double layer him composed of a memory layer with perpendicul ar anisotropy and a readout layer with in-plane magnetization. By heating t his him, magnetization in readout layer rotates from in-plane to perpendicu lar position by the effect of exchange coupling with the memory layer. This transition occurs in a very short temperature range where the readout proc ess is possible. In other temperatures the readout layer magnetization keep s in-plane and prevents any domain detection. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V . All rights reserved.