New multitrack head for high track density

A new multitrack head in which a single magnetic block is shared magnetically and mechanically with all head elements has been developed in order to achieve high track and bit density requirements in recording. Three models of experimental heads differing in structure and core material are compared for playback efficiency crosstalk, and track-pitch error. Extensive experimental data taken with magnetic drums and disks and the evaluation of error rates agree quite well with the calculated values obtained from an equivalent magnetic circuit. Our experiment has proven that one type which incorporates a single magnetic backplate has the advantage of greatly improved electromagnetic characteristics at high track densities over conventional types. Maximum track density capabilities of these heads are also discussed.