A study of interface dynamics for stiction-free slider and super-smooth disk

This paper reports results of experimental investigations into the head-dis k interface dynamics for the combination of the stiction free slider with s uper-smooth disk and the influences of disk roughness and lubricant thickne ss on the flying performance of stiction-free slider. The experiments were carried out with an optical head-disk interaction tester with which the tri bologically interface used in the tester is still identical to the actual d isk drive case The results indicate that the pad height on the air-bearing surface of the slider is one of the key parameters that determines the take -off and landing velocity of the slider. The flying performance of the slid er strongly depends on the lubricant thickness when the disk speed is aroun d the take-off velocity. (C) 2000 American Institute of Physics. [S0021-897 9(00)84208-5].