Shield Design for Enhanced Reader Resolution

We propose a shield design that enhances linear resolution at a given shield-to-shield spacing. Patterning tabs in the cross-track direction of the shields at the read gap introduces a transverse anisotropy that can be further enhanced by using a high-moment material in the shield near the sensor. We use a finite element micromagnetic code to explore the performance of a read head embodying this design. We study the dependence of resolution on both the thickness and the moment of the shield tabs. The increased shield rotation improves the sensor´s linear resolution by more than 2% in absolute terms.