Future Hard Disk Drive Front End Challenges

A description of techniques in the design of the front end integrated lead suspension is presented. Current coplanar microstrip transmission lines are challenged by future technology requirements, especially with respect to space constraints. Dual layer or broadside coupled transmission lines allow design flexibility that will enable these future challenges to be met. Analysis is made of the effect of head reader element resistance on system group delay, 2-D magnetic recording reader-to-reader crosstalk, as well as high bandwidth structures for propagating writer and pulsed laser signals in future heat assisted magnetic recording systems. All the critical future requirements are shown to be achievable.