Exchange tab stabilized readback transducers for areal densities exceeding20 Gb/in(2)

We present results from a high-density giant magneto resistive magnetic rec ording reader using exchange bias stabilization. This novel reader design a pproach reduces the amount of parasitic resistance, as the sense current is not delivered through high resistivity permanent magnets. Heads were demon strated to deliver areal densities in excess of 24 Gb/inch(2). The electric al performance of these heads, in particular, amplitude sensitivity, micro- track profiles and areal density capability are presented. Reader film prop erties and manufacturability of this approach are discussed in detail.