Magneto-resistive read sensor with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy

A new read sensor design is proposed in attempt to solve the magnetization distribution and thermal stability problems for nano-meter scale read sensors. In this design the free layer has a perpendicular-to-plane easy axis and the reference layer has an in-plane easy axis. Giant magnetoresistance (GMR) film with this structure is demonstrated in which the free layer is a [CoFe/Pt]/sub /spl times/n/ multilayer. The structure of [CoFe/Pt]/sub /spl times/n/ multilayer has to be optimized so that the magnetic properties of the free layer can meet the requirement of a MR reader.