Observation of magnetization configurations in magnetic matrix recorder elements

The Kerr magnetooptic effect has been used to observe the magnetization configuration in the layered magnetic elements of a magnetic recording device. The easy-axis disturb characteristics of partially saturated and fully saturated elements have been measured. The disturb threshold field increases markedly as the disturb pulse width is decreased. The disturb behavior of fully saturated elements can be correlated with flux reversal mechanisms which are observed in larger area single layer films. Partially saturated elements have significantly lower disturb thresholds. Methods of inhibiting the formation of these partially saturated elements are discussed.