Method and system for providing a read transducer having improved pinning of the pinned layer at higher recording densities

A method and system provide a magnetic read transducer having an air-bearing surface (ABS). The magnetic read transducer includes a read sensor stack and a pinning structure. The read sensor stack includes a pinned layer, a spacer layer, and a free layer. The spacer layer is nonmagnetic and between the pinned layer and the free layer. A portion of the read sensor stack is at the ABS. The pinning structure includes a hard magnetic layer recessed from the ABS, recessed from the free layer and adjacent to a portion of the pinned layer.

BACKGROUND

FIG. 1depicts an air-bearing surface (ABS) view of a conventional read transducer used in magnetic recording technology applications. The conventional read transducer10includes shields12and18, insulator14, hard bias structures16, and sensor20. The read sensor20is typically a giant magnetoresistive (GMR) sensor or tunneling magnetoresistive (TMR) sensor. The read sensor20includes an antiferromagnetic (AFM) layer22, a pinned layer24, a nonmagnetic spacer layer26, and a free layer28. Also shown is a capping layer30. In addition, seed layer(s) may be used. The free layer28has a magnetization sensitive to an external magnetic field. Thus, the free layer28functions as a sensor layer for the magnetoresistive sensor20. If the sensor20is to be used in a current perpendicular to plane (CPP) configuration, then current is driven in a direction substantially perpendicular to the plane of the layers22,24,26, and28. Conversely, in a current parallel to plane (CIP) configuration, then conductive leads (not shown) would be provided on the hard bias structures16. The hard bias structures16are used to magnetically bias the free layer28. In an ideal case, the hard bias structures16match the thickness, moment, and location of the sensor layer28.

Although the conventional transducer10functions, there are drawbacks. The trend in magnetic recording is to higher density memories. A lower track width, TW is desired for reading higher density memories. As track width decreases, the widths of other layers, such as the AFM layer22, are also reduced. Although the AFM layer22can have a reduced width, the size of the crystallographic grains within the AFM layer22are desired not to scale with width. This is because smaller grain sizes correspond to a lower blocking temperature for the AFM layer22. Scaling the grains of the AFM layer22would result in an AFM layer22that is more disordered at operating temperatures, which is undesirable. However, larger grains for the AFM layer22adversely affect the ability of the AFM layer to pin of the magnetic moment of the pinned layer12in the preferred orientation. For example, the grains for an IrMn AFM layer22are typically on the order of seven to ten nanometers in diameter. An AFM layer22that is twenty-five nanometers by thirty nanometers has a significantly reduced number of grains (e.g. on the order of 12) versus an AFM layer22that is fifty nanometers by sixty nanometers (e.g. on the order of forty-eight). The quality of the magnetic bias provided by the AFM layer22is related to the number of grains in the AFM layer22. As a result, the ability of the AFM layer22to pin the magnetic moment of the pinned layer24in the desired direction is compromised at higher densities. Poorer pinning of the magnetic moment of the pinned layer24adversely affects performance of the conventional magnetic transducer10.

In addition, a reduced shield-to-shield spacing, SS1, is desired for higher density memories. For example, for a shield-to-shield spacing for the conventional read transducer10of approximately twenty-two nanometers, approximately one-third is occupied by the AFM layer22. The thickness of the AFM layer22may be reduced slightly. However, such reductions in the thickness of the AFM layer22adversely affect the thermal stability of the magnetoresistive sensor20. Such instabilities in the magnetoresistive sensor20are undesirable.

Accordingly, what is needed is a system and method for improving the performance of a magnetic recording read transducer.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A method and system provide a magnetic read transducer having an air-bearing surface (ABS). The magnetic read transducer includes a read sensor stack and a pinning structure. The read sensor stack includes a pinned layer, a spacer layer, and a free layer. The spacer layer is nonmagnetic and between the pinned layer and the free layer. A portion of the read sensor stack is at the ABS. The pinning structure includes a hard magnetic layer recessed from the ABS, recessed from the free layer and adjacent to a portion of the pinned layer.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

FIGS. 2A-2Bdepict ABS and side views of an exemplary embodiment of a portion of a magnetic read transducer100. For clarity,FIGS. 2A-2Bare not to scale. The read transducer100may be part of a read head or may be part of a merged head that also includes a write transducer. The head of which the read transducer100is a part is contained in a disk drive having a media, a slider and the head coupled with the slider. Further, only a portion of the components of the read transducer100are depicted

The transducer100includes optional soft magnetic shields102and108, optional insulator104, optional hard biasing layers106, a read sensor110and at least one pinning structure120. The sensor110includes a pinned layer112, a nonmagnetic spacer layer114, and a free layer116. The pinned layer112and free layer116are ferromagnetic. However, the magnetization of the pinned layer112is stable, while that of the free layer116may respond to an external magnetic field. The free layer116may, however, be magnetically biased by the hard bias layers106. The hard bias layers106may, for example, ensure that the free layer116is single domain. The pinned layer112is shown as a single layer. However, in some embodiments, the pinned layer112may be a multilayer including but not limited to a SAF structure. The free layer116is shown as a single layer, but may be a multilayer including but not limited to a SAF structure. In the embodiment shown, the pinned layer112is an extended pinned layer having a stripe height SH2that is greater than that of the free layer, SH1. The nonmagnetic spacer layer114may be a conductor, an insulator such as a tunneling barrier layer, or other similar structure. In some embodiments, therefore, the sensor110is a GMR or TMR sensor. However, there is no AFM layer at the ABS. In other embodiments, such an AFM layer may be included at the ABS. In addition, the pinned layer112is an extended pinned layer. Stated differently, the pinned layer112extends further from the ABS in the stripe height direction than the free layer116(as is shown inFIG. 2B). In the embodiment shown, the pinned layer112′ is an extended pinned layer having a stripe height SH2′ that is greater than that of the free layer, SH1′.

The pinning structure120is used to magnetically bias the pinned layer112via an exchange interaction. The pinning structure120includes at least one hard magnetic layer (not shown) that is recessed from the free layer116by a distance d. The hard magnetic layer may include materials such as Co and/or Fe. The hard magnetic layer may be a single constituent layer, an alloy, a multilayer, or some other structure. In some embodiments, the pinning structure120is recessed from the free layer116by at least fifty Angstroms. In some embodiments, the pinning structure120may be recessed from the free layer116by not more than one micron. The pinning structure120may also include a soft magnetic layer and a nonmagnetic layer between the soft magnetic layer and the hard magnetic layer. In some embodiments, the hard magnetic layer adjoins (i.e. shares an interface with) the pinned layer112. In other embodiments, there may be a layer between the pinned layer112and the hard magnetic layer. For example, the pinning structure120may include a nonmagnetic layer between the hard magnetic layer and the pinned layer114. As used herein, a nonmagnetic layer in the pinning structure120is one which, when in the bulk and free from external magnetic fields is nonmagnetic. However, when adjoining a ferromagnetic layer such as the hard magnetic layer, the nonmagnetic layer may be magnetized. For example, the nonmagnetic layer may include Ru.

The pinning structure120is adjacent to the pinned layer112. The pinning structure120is shown on the pinned layer112. However, in another embodiment, the pinned layer112may be on the pinning structure120. The pinning structure120may have the same width in the track width direction (TW) as the free layer116and pinned layer112. In some embodiments, the pinning structure120is wider than the free layer116in the track width direction. In some such embodiments, the pinned layer112is also wider than the free layer in the track width direction at least where the pinned layer112is adjacent to the pinning structure120.

The pinning structure120is used to stabilize the pinned layer112. More specifically, the hard magnetic layer of the pinning structure120magnetically biases, or pins, the magnetization of the pinned layer112in the desired direction. In some embodiments, the pinning structure120pins the magnetic moment of the pinned layer112in a direction perpendicular to the ABS (i.e. the stripe height direction). This pinning may be assisted by the shape anisotropy of the pinned layer112.

Using the pinning structure120, the magnetic moment of the pinned layer112can be stabilized in the desired direction. This may be achieved with a reduced track width of the read sensor110and a lower shield-to-shield spacing, SS. The reduction in the shield-to-shield spacing may be achieved at least in part because the AFM layer22may be omitted at the ABS. Thus, a read transducer100suitable for use at higher magnetic recording densities may be provided.

FIG. 3depicts a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a portion of a magnetic read transducer100′. For clarity,FIG. 3is not to scale. The read transducer100′ may be part of a read head or may be part of a merged head that also includes a write transducer. The head of which the read transducer100′ is a part is part of a disk drive having a media, a slider and the head coupled with the slider. Further, the magnetic read transducer100′ corresponds to the magnetic read transducer100. Similar components have analogous labels. The magnetic transducer100′ includes optional shields102′ and108′, nonmagnetic insulating layer (not shown), sensor110′ having pinned layer112′, nonmagnetic spacer layer114′, and free layer116′, optional bias layers (not shown), and pinning structure120′ that correspond to shields102and108, nonmagnetic insulating layer104, sensor110having pinned layer112, nonmagnetic spacer layer114, and free layer116, bias layers106, and pinning structure120, respectively. Thus, the components102′,108′,110′,112′,114′,116′, and120′ have a similar structure and function to the components102,108,110,112,114,116, and120, respectively. Further, although an ABS view is not shown, the transducer100′ may appear substantially the same from the ABS as the transducer100.

In the embodiment shown, the pinning structure120′ consists of a hard magnetic layer122. The hard magnetic layer122has a high anisotropy. For example, the hard magnetic layer may have a magnetic anisotropy of at least 6×105ergs/cc. The hard magnetic layer122may include materials such as Co and/or Fe. For example, disordered CoCrPt and CoFe alloys, ordered FePt and CoPt alloys, Heusler compounds, and rare earth-transition metal compounds having a high magnetic anisotropy might be used for the hard magnetic layer122. Other materials may also be used in addition to or in lieu of the above materials. Further, if hard bias structures such as the hard bias structures106ofFIG. 2Aare used, then the hard magnetic layer122is desired to be separately configurable from the hard bias structures. For example, the hard magnetic layer122may have a different coercivity than the hard bias structures. Thus, the magnetic moments of the hard bias structures may be set independently from the magnetic moment of the hard magnetic layer122. The hard magnetic layer122may be a single constituent layer, an alloy, a multilayer, or have another structure. The hard magnetic layer122is on a portion of the pinned layer112′ recessed from the ABS and is recessed from the back edge of the free layer116′. In some embodiments, the hard magnetic layer122is recessed from the free layer116′ by at least fifty Angstroms. In some embodiments, the pinning structure122may be recessed from the free layer116′ by not more than one micron. Further, the hard magnetic layer122adjoins the pinned layer112′.

The pinning structure120′ is used to stabilize the pinned layer112′. More specifically, the hard magnetic layer122of the pinning structure120′ magnetically biases, or pins, the magnetization of the pinned layer112′ in the desired direction. In the embodiment shown, the hard magnetic layer122pins the magnetic moment of the pinned layer112′ in the stripe height direction. Because the hard magnetic layer122adjoins the pinned layer112′, their magnetic moments are in the same direction. In the embodiment shown, the pinned layer112′ is an extended pinned layer having a stripe height SH2′ that is greater than that of the free layer, SH1′. Thus, the pinning structure120′ resides on a portion of the pinned layer112′ recessed from the free layer116′. Note that if the pinned layer112′ is a SAF, then the ferromagnetic layer adjoining the hard magnetic layer122would have its magnetic moment parallel to the magnetic moment of the hard magnetic layer122while the other ferromagnetic layer would have its magnetic moment antiparallel to the magnetic moment of the hard magnetic layer122. This pinning of the magnetic moment of the pinned layer112′ may be assisted by the shape anisotropy of the pinned layer112′.

The pinning structure120′ shares the benefits of the pinning structure120. Using the pinning structure120′, the magnetic moment of the pinned layer112′ can be stabilized in the desired direction with a reduced track width of the read sensor110′ and a lower shield-to-shield spacing. A wider range of materials may also be used for the hard magnetic layer122. For example, because the hard magnetic layer122is recessed from the ABS, ferromagnetic materials that would corrode if at the ABS may be used for the pinning structure120′ without corrosion issues. Thus, a read transducer100′ suitable for use at higher magnetic recording densities may be provided.

FIG. 4depicts a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a portion of a magnetic read transducer100″. For clarity,FIG. 4is not to scale. The read transducer100″ may be part of a read head or may be part of a merged head that also includes a write transducer. The head of which the read transducer100″ is a part is part of a disk drive having a media, a slider and the head coupled with the slider. Further, the magnetic read transducer100″ corresponds to the magnetic read transducers100and100′. Similar components have analogous labels. The magnetic transducer100″ includes optional shields102″ and108″, nonmagnetic insulating layer (not shown), sensor110″ having pinned layer112″, nonmagnetic spacer layer114″, and free layer116″, optional bias layers (not shown), and pinning structure120″ that correspond to shields102/102′ and108/108′, nonmagnetic insulating layer104, sensor110/110′ having pinned layer112/112′, nonmagnetic spacer layer114/114′, and free layer116/116′, bias layers106, and pinning structure120/120′, respectively. For example, in the embodiment shown, the pinned layer112″ is an extended pinned layer having a stripe height SH2″ that is greater than that of the free layer, SH1″. Thus, the components102″,108″,110″,112″,114″,116″, and120″ have a similar structure and function to the components102/102′,108/108′,110/110′,112/112′,114/114′,116/116′, and120/120′, respectively. Further, although an ABS view is not shown, the transducer100″ may appear substantially the same from the ABS as the transducers100and100′.

In the embodiment shown, the pinning structure120″ includes not only a hard magnetic layer122′, but also a nonmagnetic layer124and a soft magnetic layer126. The hard magnetic layer122″ corresponds to the hard magnetic layer122/122′. Thus, the hard magnetic layer122′ may have analogous properties, structure, shape, composition and location as the hard magnetic layer122. The hard magnetic layer122′ also adjoins the pinned layer112′. The nonmagnetic layer124may include materials such as Ru and separates the hard magnetic layer122′ from the soft magnetic layer126. The soft magnetic layer126may include materials such as Fe, Co, and Ni. The soft magnetic layer126also has a low coercivity. For example, the coercivity of the soft magnetic layer126may be less than or equal to one hundred Oe. In addition, the soft magnetic layer126is magnetically coupled with the hard magnetic layer122′. In some embodiments, the layers122′,124and126may be considered to form a SAF.

The hard magnetic layer122′ of the pinning structure120″ is used to stabilize the pinned layer112″ by pinning the magnetic moment of the pinned layer112″ in the desired direction. In the embodiment shown, the hard magnetic layer122′ pins the magnetic moment of the pinned layer112″ in the stripe height direction. Note that if the pinned layer112′ is a SAF, then the ferromagnetic layer adjoining the hard magnetic layer122would have its magnetic moment parallel to the magnetic moment of the hard magnetic layer122while the other ferromagnetic layer would have its magnetic moment antiparallel to the magnetic moment of the hard magnetic layer122. This pinning of the pinned layer magnetic moment may be assisted by the shape anisotropy of the pinned layer112. The soft magnetic layer126and nonmagnetic layer124may be used to provide flux closure for the pinning structure120″. Thus fringing fields from the pinning structure120″ may be reduced or eliminated.

The pinning structure120″ shares the benefits of the pinning structures120and120′. Using the pinning structure120″, the magnetic moment of the pinned layer112″ can be stabilized in the desired direction with a reduced track width of the read sensor110′ and a lower shield-to-shield spacing. A wider range of materials may also be used for the hard magnetic layer122′ because the hard magnetic layer122′ is recessed from the ABS. In addition, the presence of the nonmagnetic layer124and soft magnetic layer126allow for reduced fringing fields from the pinning structure120″. Thus, a read transducer100″ suitable for use at higher magnetic recording densities may be provided.

FIG. 5depicts a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a portion of a magnetic read transducer100′″. For clarity,FIG. 5is not to scale. The read transducer100′″ may be part of a read head or may be part of a merged head that also includes a write transducer. The head of which the read transducer100′″ is a part is part of a disk drive having a media, a slider and the head coupled with the slider. Further, the magnetic read transducer100′″ corresponds to the magnetic read transducers100,100′ and, to an extent,100″. Similar components have analogous labels. The magnetic transducer100′″ includes optional shields102′″ and108′″, nonmagnetic insulating layer (not shown), sensor110′″ having pinned layer112′″, nonmagnetic spacer layer114′″, and free layer116′″, optional bias layers (not shown), and pinning structure120′″ that correspond to shields102/102′/102″ and108/108′/108″, nonmagnetic insulating layer104, sensor110/110′/110″ having pinned layer112/112′/112″, nonmagnetic spacer layer114/114′/114″, and free layer116/116′/116″, bias layers106, and pinning structure120/120′/120″, respectively. For example, in the embodiment shown, the pinned layer112′″ is an extended pinned layer having a stripe height SH2′″ that is greater than that of the free layer, SH1′″. Thus, the components102′″,108′″,110′″,112′″,114′″,116′″, and120′″ have a similar structure and function to the components102/102′/102″,108/108′/108″,110/110′/110″,112/112′/112″,114/114′/114″,116/116′/116″, and120/120′/120″, respectively. Further, although an ABS view is not shown, the transducer100′″ may appear substantially the same from the ABS as the transducer100.

In the embodiment shown, the pinning structure120″″ includes a hard magnetic layer122′″ and a nonmagnetic layer128′. The hard magnetic layer122′″ corresponds to the hard magnetic layer122/122′/122″. Thus, the hard magnetic layer122′″ may have analogous properties, structure, shape, composition and location as the hard magnetic layers122/122′/122″. The nonmagnetic layer128is between the hard magnetic layer122″ and the pinned layer112′″. The nonmagnetic layer128includes materials such as Ru, which allow an indirect exchange interaction between the pinned layer128and the hard magnetic layer122′″.

The pinning structure120′″ is used to stabilize the pinned layer112′″. More specifically, the hard magnetic layer122″ of the pinning structure120′″ pins the magnetization of the pinned layer112′″ in the desired direction. In the embodiment shown, the hard magnetic layer122″ pins the magnetic moment of the pinned layer112′″ in the stripe height direction. This pinning may be assisted by the shape anisotropy of the pinned layer112′″. Because of the presence of the nonmagnetic layer128, the magnetic moments of the pinned layer112′″ and the hard magnetic layer122″ are in opposite directions. Note that if the pinned layer112′″ is a SAF, then the ferromagnetic layer closest to the hard magnetic layer122″ would have its magnetic moment antiparallel to the magnetic moment of the hard magnetic layer122″ while the other ferromagnetic layer would have its magnetic moment parallel to the magnetic moment of the hard magnetic layer122″.

The pinning structure120′″ shares the benefits of the pinning structure120/120′/120″. Using the pinning structure120′″, the magnetic moment of the pinned layer112′″ can be stabilized in the desired direction with a reduced track width of the read sensor110′ and a lower shield-to-shield spacing. A wider range of materials may also be used for the hard magnetic layer122″. For example, because the hard magnetic layer122″ is recessed from the ABS, ferromagnetic materials that would corrode if at the ABS may be used for the pinning structure120′″ without corrosion issues. Thus, a read transducer100′″ suitable for use at higher magnetic recording densities may be provided.

FIG. 6depicts a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a portion of a magnetic read transducer100″″. For clarity,FIG. 6is not to scale. The read transducer100″″ may be part of a read head or may be part of a merged head that also includes a write transducer. The head of which the read transducer100″″ is a part is part of a disk drive having a media, a slider and the head coupled with the slider. Further, the magnetic read transducer100″″ corresponds to the magnetic read transducers100,100′,100″, and100″. Similar components have analogous labels. The magnetic transducer100″″ includes optional shields102″″ and108″″, nonmagnetic insulating layer (not shown), sensor110″″ having pinned layer112″″, nonmagnetic spacer layer114″″, and free layer116″″, optional bias layers (not shown), and pinning structure120″″ that correspond to shields102/102′/102″/102′″ and108/108′/108″/108′″, nonmagnetic insulating layer104, sensor110/110′/110″/110′″ having pinned layer112/112′/112″/112′″, nonmagnetic spacer layer114/114′/114″/114′″, and free layer116/116′/116″/116′″, bias layers106, and pinning structure120/120′/120″/120″, respectively. For example, in the embodiment shown, the pinned layer112″″ is an extended pinned layer having a stripe height SH2″″ that is greater than that of the free layer, SH1″″. Thus, the components102″″,108″″,110″″,112″″,114″″,116″″, and120″″ have a similar structure and function to the components102/102′/102″/102′″,108/108′/108″/108′″,110/110′/110″/110′″,112/112′/112″/112′″,114/114′/114″/114′″,116/116′/116″/116′″, and120/120′/120″/120″, respectively. Further, although an ABS view is not shown, the transducer100″″ may appear substantially the same from the ABS as the transducers100,100′,100″, and100′″.

In the embodiment shown, the pinning structure120″″ includes not only a hard magnetic layer122′″, and a nonmagnetic layer128′, but also a nonmagnetic layer124′ and a soft magnetic layer126′. The hard magnetic layer122′″ corresponds to the hard magnetic layer122. Thus, the hard magnetic layer122′ may have analogous properties, structure, shape, composition and location as the hard magnetic layer122/122′/122″. The nonmagnetic layer128′ corresponds to the nonmagnetic layer128. The nonmagnetic layer128′ is thus between the hard magnetic layer122′″ and the pinned layer112″″. The soft magnetic layer126′ and nonmagnetic layer124′ correspond to the soft magnetic layer126and the nonmagnetic layer124, respectively. Thus, the layers124′,126′, and128′ may have analogous properties, structure, shape, composition and location as the layers124,126, and128, respectively. The soft magnetic layer126′ is thus magnetically coupled with the hard magnetic layer122″ to form a SAF.

The hard magnetic layer122′″ pins the magnetic moment of the pinned layer112″″ in the desired direction. In the embodiment shown, the hard magnetic layer122′″ pins the magnetic moment of the pinned layer112″″ in the stripe height direction. This pinning may be assisted by the shape anisotropy of the pinned layer112″. Because of the presence of the nonmagnetic layer128′, the magnetic moments of the pinned layer112″″ and the hard magnetic layer122′″ are in opposite directions. Note that if the pinned layer112″″ is a SAF, then the ferromagnetic layer closest to the hard magnetic layer122′″ would have its magnetic moment antiparallel to the magnetic moment of the hard magnetic layer122′″ while the other ferromagnetic layer would have its magnetic moment parallel to the magnetic moment of the hard magnetic layer122′″. The soft magnetic layer126′ and nonmagnetic layer124′ may be used to provide flux closure for the pinning structure120″″. Thus fringing fields from the pinning structure120″ may be reduced or eliminated.

The pinning structure120″″ shares the benefits of the pinning structures120,120′,120″ and120′″. Using the pinning structure120″″, the magnetic moment of the pinned layer112″″ can be stabilized in the desired direction with a reduced track width of the read sensor110′ and a lower shield-to-shield spacing. A wider range of materials may also be used for the hard magnetic layer122′″ because the hard magnetic layer122′″ is recessed from the ABS. In addition, the presence of the nonmagnetic layer124′ and soft magnetic layer126′ allow for reduced fringing fields from the pinning structure120″″. Thus, a read transducer100′″ suitable for use at higher magnetic recording densities may be provided.

FIG. 7depicts a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a portion of a magnetic read transducer150. For clarity,FIG. 7is not to scale. The read transducer150may be part of a read head or may be part of a merged head that also includes a write transducer. The head of which the read transducer150is a part is part of a disk drive having a media, a slider and the head coupled with the slider. Further, the magnetic read transducer150corresponds to the magnetic read transducers100,100′,100″,100′″, and100″″. Similar components have analogous labels. The magnetic transducer150includes optional shields152and158, nonmagnetic insulating layer (not shown), sensor160having pinned layer162, nonmagnetic spacer layer164, and free layer166, optional bias layers (not shown), and pinning structure170that correspond to shields102/102′/102″/102′″/102″″ and108/108′/108″/108′″/108″″, nonmagnetic insulating layer104, sensor110/110′/110″/110′″/110″″ having pinned layer112/112′/112″/112′″/112″″, nonmagnetic spacer layer114/114′/114″/114′″/114″″, and free layer116/116′/116″/116′″/116″″, bias layers106, and pinning structure120/120′/120″/120′″/120″″, respectively. Stated differently, components shown inFIG. 7have an analogous structure, function, composition, location, and geometry as those depicted inFIGS. 2,3,4,5, and6. Further, although an ABS view is not shown, the transducer150may appear substantially the same from the ABS as the transducers100,100′,100″, and100′″,100″″.

The pinning structure170is shown as residing below the pinned layer162. Thus, in the embodiment shown, the pinned layer162may be fabricated on the pinning structure170. The pinned layer162is thus an extended pinned layer, having a length, S2, in the stripe height direction that is greater than the stripe height of the free layer166, S1. The geometry and function of the pinning structure170may be analogous to that of the pinning structures120,120′,120″,120′″, and120″″. Thus, the pinning structure170includes at least a hard magnetic layer. In some embodiments, the pinning structure170may include a nonmagnetic layer between the hard magnetic layer and the pinned layer162. In some embodiments, the pinning structure170may include a soft magnetic layer and a nonmagnetic layer between the hard magnetic layer and the soft magnetic layer. In other embodiments, the pinning structure may include some combination of the above embodiments. The hard magnetic layer (not explicitly shown inFIG. 7) pins the magnetic moment of the pinned layer162in the desired direction.

The pinning structure170shares the benefits of the pinning structures120,120′,120″120′″, and120″″. Using the pinning structure170, the magnetic moment of the pinned layer162can be stabilized in the desired direction with a reduced track width of the read sensor160and a lower shield-to-shield spacing. A wider range of materials may also be used for the hard magnetic layer of the pinning structure170because the hard magnetic layer is recessed from the ABS. In addition, if layers such as the nonmagnetic layer124/124′ and soft magnetic layer126/126′ are used, reduced fringing fields from the pinning structure170may be achieved. Thus, a read transducer150suitable for use at higher magnetic recording densities may be provided.

FIG. 8depicts a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a portion of a magnetic read transducer150′. For clarity,FIG. 8is not to scale. The read transducer150′ may be part of a read head or may be part of a merged head that also includes a write transducer. The head of which the read transducer150′ is a part is part of a disk drive having a media, a slider and the head coupled with the slider. Further, the magnetic read transducer150corresponds to the magnetic read transducers100,100′,100″,100′″,100″″, and150. Similar components have analogous labels. The magnetic transducer150′ includes optional shields152′ and158′, nonmagnetic insulating layer (not shown), sensor160′ having pinned layer162′, nonmagnetic spacer layer164′, and free layer166′, optional bias layers (not shown), and pinning structure170′ that correspond to shields152and158, nonmagnetic insulating layer104, sensor160having pinned layer162, nonmagnetic spacer layer164, and free layer166, bias layers106, and pinning structure170, respectively. Stated differently, components shown inFIG. 8have an analogous structure, function, composition, location, and geometry as those depicted inFIGS. 2,3,4,5,6, and7. Further, although an ABS view is not shown, the transducer150′ may appear substantially the same from the ABS as the transducers100,100′,100″,100′″,100″″ and150.

The pinning structure170′ is shown as residing below the pinned layer162′. Thus, in the embodiment shown, the pinned layer162′ may be fabricated on the pinning structure170′. The pinned layer162′ is thus an extended pinned layer, having a length, S2′, in the stripe height direction that is greater than the stripe height of the free layer166′, S1′. The geometry and function of the pinning structure170′ may be analogous to that of the pinning structures120,120′,120″,120′″,120″″, and170. Thus, the pinning structure170′ includes at least a hard magnetic layer. In some embodiments, the pinning structure170′ may include a nonmagnetic layer between the hard magnetic layer and the pinned layer162′. In some embodiments, the pinning structure170′ may include a soft magnetic layer and a nonmagnetic layer between the hard magnetic layer and the soft magnetic layer. In other embodiments, the pinning structure170′ may include some combination of the above embodiments. The hard magnetic layer (not explicitly shown inFIG. 8) pins the magnetic moment of the pinned layer162′ in the desired direction.

In addition, the pinned layer162′ is explicitly shown as a SAF structure. Thus, the pinned layer162′ includes ferromagnetic layers161and165separated by a nonmagnetic layer163. The ferromagnetic layer161has its magnetic moment pinned by the hard magnetic layer in the pinning structure170′. In the embodiment shown, the ferromagnetic layer165has a reduced stripe height, S3. Thus, in some embodiments, the ferromagnetic layer165closer to the free layer166′ may have a length in the stripe height direction of at least S1′ and not more than S2′.

The pinning structure170′ shares the benefits of the pinning structures120,120′,120″120′″,120″″, and170. Using the pinning structure170′, the magnetic moment of the pinned layer162′ can be stabilized in the desired direction with a reduced track width of the read sensor160′ and a lower shield-to-shield spacing. A wider range of materials may also be used for the hard magnetic layer of the pinning structure170′ because the hard magnetic layer is recessed from the ABS. In addition, if layers such as the nonmagnetic layer124/124′ and soft magnetic layer126/126′ are used, reduced fringing fields from the pinning structure170′ may be achieved. Thus, a read transducer150′ suitable for use at higher magnetic recording densities may be provided.

FIG. 9depicts a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a portion of a magnetic read transducer150″. For clarity,FIG. 9is not to scale. The read transducer150″ may be part of a read head or may be part of a merged head that also includes a write transducer. The head of which the read transducer150′ is a part is part of a disk drive having a media, a slider and the head coupled with the slider. Further, the magnetic read transducer150′ corresponds to the magnetic read transducers100,100′,100″,100′″,100″″,150and150′. Similar components have analogous labels. The magnetic transducer150″ includes optional shields152″ and158″, nonmagnetic insulating layer (not shown), sensor160″ having pinned layer162″, nonmagnetic spacer layer164″, and free layer166″, optional bias layers (not shown), and pinning structure170″ that correspond to shields152/152′ and158/158′, nonmagnetic insulating layer104, sensor160/160′ having pinned layer162/162′, nonmagnetic spacer layer164/164′, and free layer166/166′, bias layers106/106′, and pinning structure170/170′, respectively. Stated differently, components shown inFIG. 9have an analogous structure, function, composition, location, and geometry as those depicted inFIGS. 2,3,4,5,6,7, and8. Further, although an ABS view is not shown, the transducer150″ may appear substantially the same from the ABS as the transducers100,100′,100″,100′″,100″″,150and150′.

The pinning structure170″ is shown as residing above pinned layer162″, as is shown inFIGS. 2A-6. Thus, in the embodiment shown, the pinning structure170″ may be fabricated on the pinned layer162″. The pinned layer162″ is thus an extended pinned layer, having a length, S2″, in the stripe height direction that is greater than the stripe height of the free layer166″, S1″. The geometry and function of the pinning structure170″ may be analogous to that of the pinning structures120,120′,120″,120′″,120″″,170and170′. Thus, the pinning structure170″ includes at least a hard magnetic layer. In some embodiments, the pinning structure170″ may include a nonmagnetic layer between the hard magnetic layer and the pinned layer162″. In some embodiments, the pinning structure170″ may include a soft magnetic layer and a nonmagnetic layer between the hard magnetic layer and the soft magnetic layer. In other embodiments, the pinning structure170″ may include some combination of the above embodiments. The hard magnetic layer (not explicitly shown inFIG. 9) pins the magnetic moment of the pinned layer162″ in the desired direction.

In addition, the pinned layer162″ is explicitly shown as a SAF structure. Thus, the pinned layer162″ includes ferromagnetic layers161′ and165′ separated by a nonmagnetic layer163′. The ferromagnetic layer165′ (closest to the free layer165′) has its magnetic moment pinned by the hard magnetic layer in the pinning structure170″. Thus, the ferromagnetic layer165′ has a stripe height that is greater than S1″ and is sufficient to provide for at least a fifty Angstrom distance between the free layer166′ and the pinning structure170″. In the embodiment shown, the ferromagnetic layer165′ has a stripe height, S2″ that is the same as the ferromagnetic layer161′. However, in some embodiments, the ferromagnetic layer165′ may have a length in the stripe height direction that is less than S2′.

The pinning structure170″ shares the benefits of the pinning structures120,120′,120″120′″,120″″,170and170′. Using the pinning structure170″, the magnetic moment of the pinned layer162″ can be stabilized in the desired direction with a reduced track width of the read sensor160″ and a lower shield-to-shield spacing. A wider range of materials may also be used for the hard magnetic layer of the pinning structure170″ because the hard magnetic layer is recessed from the ABS. In addition, if layers such as the nonmagnetic layer124/124′ and soft magnetic layer126/126′ are used, reduced fringing fields from the pinning structure170″ may be achieved. Thus, a read transducer150″ suitable for use at higher magnetic recording densities may be provided.

FIG. 10depicts a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a portion of a magnetic read transducer200. For clarity,FIG. 10is not to scale. The read transducer200may be part of a read head or may be part of a merged head that also includes a write transducer. The head of which the read transducer200is a part is part of a disk drive having a media, a slider and the head coupled with the slider. Further, the magnetic read transducer200corresponds to the magnetic read transducers100,100′,100″,100′″,100″″,150,150′, and/or150″. Similar components have analogous labels. The magnetic transducer200includes optional shields (not shown), nonmagnetic insulating layer (not shown), sensor210having pinned layer212, nonmagnetic spacer layer214, and free layer216, and optional bias layers (not shown) that correspond to shields, nonmagnetic insulating layer, sensor having pinned layer, nonmagnetic spacer layer, and free layer, and bias layers, respectively shown inFIGS. 2A-9. Further, the transducer200includes pinning structure220that may be analogous to one or more of the pinning structures120,120′,120″,120′″,120″″,170,170′, and/or170″. Stated differently, components shown inFIG. 10have an analogous structure, function, composition, location, and geometry as one or more of those depicted inFIGS. 2A,2B,3,4,5,6,7,8and/or9. Further, although an ABS view is not shown, the transducer200may appear substantially the same from the ABS as the remaining transducers. In the embodiment shown, the pinning structure220has substantially the same width in the track width direction as the free layer216.

The pinning structure220shares the benefits of the pinning structures120,120′,120″120′″,120″″,170,170′, and/or170″. Using the pinning structure220, the magnetic moment of the pinned layer212can be stabilized in the desired direction with a reduced track width of the read sensor210and a lower shield-to-shield spacing. A wider range of materials may also be used for the hard magnetic layer of the pinning structure220because the hard magnetic layer is recessed from the ABS. In addition, if layers such as the nonmagnetic layer124/124′ and soft magnetic layer126/126′ are used, reduced fringing fields from the pinning structure220may be achieved. Thus, a read transducer200suitable for use at higher magnetic recording densities may be provided.

FIG. 11depicts a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a portion of a magnetic read transducer200′. For clarity,FIG. 11is not to scale. The read transducer200′ may be part of a read head or may be part of a merged head that also includes a write transducer. The head of which the read transducer200′ is a part is part of a disk drive having a media, a slider and the head coupled with the slider. Further, the magnetic read transducer200′ corresponds to the magnetic read transducers100,100′,100″,100′″,100″″,150,150′,150″ and/or200. Similar components have analogous labels. The magnetic transducer200′ includes optional shields (not shown), nonmagnetic insulating layer (not shown), sensor210′ having pinned layer212′, nonmagnetic spacer layer214′, and free layer216′, and optional bias layers (not shown) that correspond to shields, nonmagnetic insulating layer, sensor having pinned layer, nonmagnetic spacer layer, and free layer, and bias layers, respectively shown inFIGS. 2A-10. Further, the transducer200′ includes pinning structure220′ that may be analogous to one or more of the pinning structures120′,120′,120″,120′″,120″″,170,170′,170″ and/or220. Stated differently, components shown inFIG. 11have an analogous structure, function, composition, location, and geometry as one or more of those depicted inFIGS. 2A,2B,3,4,5,6,7,8.9and/or10. Further, although an ABS view is not shown, the transducer200′ may appear substantially the same from the ABS as the remaining transducers. In the embodiment shown, the pinning structure220′ and the portion of the pinned layer212′ adjoining the pinning structure220′ are wider in the track width direction than the free layer216′.

The pinning structure220′ shares the benefits of the pinning structures120,120′,120″120′″,120″″,170,170′,170″ and/or220. Using the pinning structure220, the magnetic moment of the pinned layer212′ can be stabilized in the desired direction with a reduced track width of the read sensor210′ and a lower shield-to-shield spacing. A wider range of materials may also be used for the hard magnetic layer of the pinning structure220′ because the hard magnetic layer is recessed from the ABS. In addition, if layers such as the nonmagnetic layer124/124′ and soft magnetic layer126/126′ are used, reduced fringing fields from the pinning structure220′ may be achieved. Thus, a read transducer200′ suitable for use at higher magnetic recording densities may be provided.

FIG. 12depicts a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a portion of a magnetic read transducer200″. For clarity,FIG. 12is not to scale. The read transducer200″ may be part of a read head or may be part of a merged head that also includes a write transducer. The head of which the read transducer200″ is a part is part of a disk drive having a media, a slider and the head coupled with the slider. Further, the magnetic read transducer200″ corresponds to the magnetic read transducers100,100′,100″,100′″,100″″,150,150′,150′150″,200and/or200′. Similar components have analogous labels. The magnetic transducer200″ includes optional shields (not shown), nonmagnetic insulating layer (not shown), sensor210″ having pinned layer212″, nonmagnetic spacer layer214″, and free layer216″, and optional bias layers (not shown) that correspond to shields, nonmagnetic insulating layer, sensor having pinned layer, nonmagnetic spacer layer, and free layer, and bias layers, respectively shown inFIGS. 2A-11. Further, the transducer200″ includes pinning structure220″ that may be analogous to one or more of the pinning structures120′,120′,120″,120′″,120″″,170,170′,170″,220and/or220′. Stated differently, components shown inFIG. 12have an analogous structure, function, composition, location, and geometry as one or more of those depicted inFIGS. 2A,2B,3,4,5,6,7,8.9,10and/or11. Further, although an ABS view is not shown, the transducer200″ may appear substantially the same from the ABS as the remaining transducers. In the embodiment shown, the pinning structure220″ is wider in the track width direction than the free layer216″. In addition, a portion of the pinned layer212′″ has been removed during fabrication. However, a sufficient amount of the pinned layer212″ remains such that the pinned layer212″ is still be magnetically biased by the pinning structure220″.

The pinning structure220″ shares the benefits of the pinning structures120,120′,120″120′″,120″″,170,170′,170″,220and/or220′. Using the pinning structure220″, the magnetic moment of the pinned layer212″ can be stabilized in the desired direction with a reduced track width of the read sensor210″ and a lower shield-to-shield spacing. A wider range of materials may also be used for the hard magnetic layer of the pinning structure220″ because the hard magnetic layer is recessed from the ABS. In addition, if layers such as the nonmagnetic layer124/124′ and soft magnetic layer126/126′ are used, reduced fringing fields from the pinning structure220′ may be achieved. Thus, a read transducer200″ suitable for use at higher magnetic recording densities may be provided.

It is noted that a single pinning structure120,120′,120″120′″,120″″,170,170′,170″,220,220′ and/or220″ is shown inFIGS. 2A,2B,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11, and12. However, multiple pinning structures may be used. For example, pinning structures could reside both above and below a pinned layer and/or at multiple locations on the same side of the pinned layer. In addition, one or more of the features of the pinning structures120,120′,120″120′″,120″″,170,170′,170″,220,220′ and/or220″ may be combined in a particular embodiment.

FIG. 13is an exemplary embodiment of a method300for providing a read transducer utilizing a pinning structure. For simplicity, some steps may be omitted, interleaved, performed in another order and/or combined. The method300is also described in the context of providing a single recording transducer100. However, the method300may be used to fabricate multiple transducers at substantially the same time. The method300may also be used to fabricate other transducers including but not limited to any combination of100,100′,100″,100′″,100″″,150,150′,150″,200,200′, and/or200″. The method300is also described in the context of particular layers. A particular layer may include multiple materials and/or multiple sub-layers. The method300also may start after formation of other portions of the magnetic recording transducer.

The shield102is optionally provided, via step302. Step302typically includes depositing a large high permeability layer. The shield102typically extends significantly further in the track width direction than the read sensor110or any bias structures106.

The read sensor110is provided, via step304. Step304typically includes depositing the layers for the sensor110. Step304may include blanket depositing the layers for the read sensor, as well as the defining the read sensor from the layers in at least the track width direction in step304. In some embodiments, the read sensor110is defined using an ion mill. In some embodiments, the sensor110is also defined in the stripe height direction. In some embodiments, at least some of the layers for the sensor are not completely milled through to provide extended layers. For example, at least part of the pinned layer112may not be milled through in the stripe height direction or may be milled at a different distance from the ABS. Thus, an extended pinned layer may be provided. Similarly, the pinned layer112may be configured to be larger in the track width direction distal from the ABS, for example in a manner analogous to the pinned layers212′ and/or212″.

The pinning structure120that is recessed from the ABS may be provided, via step306. In some embodiments, step304is performed after step306. In such embodiments, the films for the read sensor deposited after the pinning structure120is provided. In such embodiments, the pinned layer112may be deposited on and reside on the pinning structure120. In other embodiments, step304is performed before step306. In such embodiments, the pinning structure120is on the pinned layer112.

The bias structures106may optionally be provided in step308. Step308may include depositing hard bias or other analogous structures. The top shield108may optionally then be provided, via step310. Formation of the transducer100may then be completed.

Using the method300, the transducers100,100′,100″,100′″,100″″,150,150′,150″,200,200′, and/or200″ may be fabricated. Thus, the benefits of one or more of the transducers100,100′,100″,100′″,100″″,150,150′,150″,200,200′, and/or200″ may be achieved.

FIG. 14depicts an exemplary embodiment of a method320for providing the pinning structure. For simplicity, some steps may be omitted, interleaved, performed in another order and/or combined. The method320may be viewed as an embodiment of implementing the step306. The method320is also described in the context of providing a single recording transducer100′,100″,100′″ or100″″. However, the method320may be used to fabricate multiple transducers at substantially the same time. The method320may also be used to fabricate other transducers including but not limited to any combination of100,100′,100″,100′″,100″″,150,150′,150″,200,200′, and/or200″. The method320is also described in the context of particular layers. A particular layer may include multiple materials and/or multiple sub-layers. The method320also may start after formation of other portions of the magnetic recording transducer.

A nonmagnetic layer is optionally provided adjoining the pinned layer, via step322. In some embodiments, step322includes depositing a Ru layer. However, in other embodiments, other material(s) may be used. Thus, the layer128/128′ may be formed.

The hard magnetic layer122/122′/122″/122′″/122″″ layer is provided, via step324. In some embodiments, step324depositing the hard magnetic layer adjoining the pinned layer112. However, in other embodiments, for example in which the step322has been performed, the hard magnetic layer does not adjoin the pinned layer112.

The nonmagnetic layer124/124′ is optionally provided, via step326. In some embodiments, step326includes sputtering or otherwise depositing the materials. The soft magnetic layer126/126′ may also optionally be provided, via step328. Thus, the pinning structure120,120′,120″,120′″,120″″,170,170′,170″,220,220′ and/or220″.

Using the method320, the pinning structures of the transducers100,100′,100″,100′″,100″″,150,150′,150″,200,200′, and/or200″ may be fabricated. In particular, the pinning structure120,120′,120″,120′″,120″″,170,170′, and/or170″ may be provided. Thus, the benefits of one or more of the transducers100,100′,100″,100′″,100″″,150,150′,150″,200,200′, and/or200″ may be achieved.