HDD Reader Technology Roadmap to an Areal Density of 4 Tbpsi and Beyond

Massive data growth is accelerating the need for storage. Hard disk drive read/write technology continues to advance to support this demand. This Advanced Storage Research Consortium report combines a top-down (system) and bottom-up (micromagnetic) approach to define a reader technology roadmap for 2.4, 4.0, and 6.0 terabits per square inch (Tbpsi) including dimensional and performance targets. We examine the resolution, SNR, stability and manufacturing requirements, challenges, and gaps. We show that the extension of today’s spin valve-based reader designs may enable 4 Tbpsi, but significant gaps must be closed. For higher areal densities, we review future reader designs, challenges, and discuss potential solution paths.