Exchange tab stabilized readback transducers for areal densities exceeding 20 Gb/in/sup 2/

We present results from a high-density giant magnetoresistive magnetic recording reader using exchange bias stabilization. This novel reader design approach reduces the amount of parasitic resistance, as the sense current is not delivered through high resistivity permanent magnets. Heads were demonstrated to deliver areal densities in excess of 24 Gb/inch/sup 2/. The electrical performance of these heads, in particular, amplitude sensitivity, microtrack profiles and areal density capability are presented. Reader film properties and manufacturability of this approach are discussed in detail.