Sputtered Ni/sub x/P underlayer for CoPt-based thin film magnetic media

The effect of a sputtered Ni/sub x/P underlayer on the properties of CoPt-based thin film media is discussed. Sputtered Ni/sub x/P has the effect of raising the Hc of the media, and at the same time media noise is reduced. Results from films made from Ni/sub 3/P target composition (15 wt.%P) are discussed. Microstructural analysis of the sputtered film indicates that these effects are due to larger intergranular separation, which leads to less interparticle exchange.<
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