Joint-Track Equalization and Detection for Bit Patterned Media Recording

We compare several different detection and equalization methods for bit patterned media recording channels. We consider a scheme that utilizes a joint-track equalization technique followed by a Viterbi detector. For certain recording densities, simulation results show that it has essentially the same performance as an optimal detector but with reduced detection complexity. Furthermore, it outperforms another scheme of the same complexity previously described in the literature.