Magnetic head and magnetic recorder

Abstract

To provide a magnetic head and a magnetic recorder that obtain stable characteristics.SOLUTION: A magnetic head 110 includes a reproduction unit 70 including a medium facing surface 10F. The reproduction unit includes first to fourth shields 41-44, and first to third terminals 41T-43T. A first magnetic element 11 is provided between the first shield 41 and the second shield 42 and between the third shield 43 and the fourth shield 44. The first magnetic element 11 includes a first magnetic film 11a, a second magnetic film 11b provided between the first magnetic film 11a and the second shield 42, and a first non-magnetic film 11c provided between the first magnetic film 11a and the second magnetic film 11b. The first non-magnetic film 11c includes at least one selected from the group consisting of Cu, Ru, and Ir. A first non-magnetic film thickness t3 of the first non-magnetic film is 0.1 nm or more and 10 nm or less. The second magnetic film 11b has a second magnetic film thickness t2. A first magnetic film thickness t1 is smaller than the second magnetic film thickness t2.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD An embodiment of the present invention relates to a magnetic head and a magnetic recording device. [Background technology]

[0002] A magnetic head including a magnetic sensor is used to reproduce information recorded on a magnetic recording medium such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), and improvements in the characteristics of the magnetic head are desired. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 7,576,948 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The embodiments of the present invention provide a magnetic head and a magnetic recording device that can obtain stable characteristics. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] According to an embodiment, the magnetic head includes a reproducing section including a medium-facing surface. The reproducing section includes a first shield, a second shield, a third shield, a fourth shield, a first magnetic element, a first terminal, a second terminal, and a third terminal. A direction from the first shield to the second shield is along a first direction along the medium-facing surface. A second direction from the third shield to the fourth shield is along the medium-facing surface and intersects the first direction. The first magnetic element is provided between the first shield and the second shield and between the third shield and the fourth shield. The first magnetic element includes a first magnetic film, a second magnetic film provided between the first magnetic film and the second shield, and a first non-magnetic film provided between the first magnetic film and the second magnetic film. The first terminal is electrically connected to the first shield. The second terminal is electrically connected to the second shield. The third terminal is electrically connected to the first magnetic element. The first non-magnetic film includes at least one selected from the group consisting of Cu, Ru, and Ir. The first non-magnetic film has a first non-magnetic film thickness along the first direction of 0.1 nm or more and 10 nm or less. The first magnetic film has a first magnetic film thickness along the first direction. The second magnetic film has a second magnetic film thickness along the first direction. The first magnetic film is thinner than the second magnetic film thickness. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] 1A and 1B are schematic views illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] 3A and 3B are schematic views illustrating the characteristics of the magnetic head according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a schematic view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a schematic view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a schematic view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a schematic view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] 10A and 10B are schematic views illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] 11A and 11B are schematic views illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a schematic plan view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a schematic view illustrating the magnetic recording device according to the embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the magnetic head according to the embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a part of the magnetic recording device according to the embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the magnetic recording device according to the embodiment. [Figure 18] 18A and 18B are schematic perspective views illustrating a part of the magnetic recording device according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The drawings are schematic or conceptual, and the relationship between the thickness and width of each part, the size ratio between parts, etc. are not necessarily the same as those in reality. Even when the same part is shown, the dimensions and ratios may be different depending on the drawing. In this specification and in each drawing, elements similar to those previously described with reference to the previous drawings are designated by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted where appropriate.

[0008] (First embodiment) FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 2 are schematic views illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment. Fig. 1(a) is a plan view, and Fig. 1(b) is an enlarged view of a part of Fig. 1(a). FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line X1-X2 in FIG.

[0009] 1(a) and 2, a magnetic head 110 according to the embodiment includes a reproducing section 70. A magnetic recording device 210 according to the embodiment includes the magnetic head 110 and a magnetic recording medium 80 (see FIG. 2).

[0010] As shown in FIG. 2, the reproducing unit 70 includes a medium facing surface 10F. The medium facing surface 10F faces the magnetic recording medium 80. One direction along the medium facing surface 10F is defined as the X-axis direction. A direction along the medium facing surface 10F that is perpendicular to the X-axis direction is defined as the Y-axis direction. A direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction is defined as the Z-axis direction. The medium facing surface 10F intersects with the Z-axis direction. The medium facing surface 10F may be, for example, one surface of the first magnetic element 11, which will be described later. FIG. 1(a) illustrates the reproducing unit 70 as viewed from the medium facing surface 10F.

[0011] The playback section 70 includes a first shield 41, a second shield 42, a third shield 43, a fourth shield 44, a first terminal 41T, a second terminal 42T, and a third terminal 43T.

[0012] The direction from the first shield 41 to the second shield 42 is along a first direction D1 that runs along the medium facing surface 10F. The first direction D1 is, for example, the X-axis direction.

[0013] A second direction D2 from the third shield 43 to the fourth shield 44 runs along the medium facing surface 10F and intersects with the first direction D1. The second direction D2 is, for example, the Y-axis direction.

[0014] The first magnetic element 11 is provided between the first shield 41 and the second shield 42 and between the third shield 43 and the fourth shield 44. The first terminal 41T is electrically connected to the first shield 41. The second terminal 42T is electrically connected to the second shield 42. The third terminal is electrically connected to the first magnetic element 11.

[0015] The first shield 41 is, for example, one of a trailing shield and a leading shield. The second shield 42 is, for example, the other of a trailing shield and a leading shield. The third shield 43 and the fourth shield 44 are, for example, side shields.

[0016] The X-axis direction is, for example, the down-track direction, the Y-axis direction is, for example, the cross-track direction, and the Z-axis direction is, for example, the height direction.

[0017] 1(a), the first magnetic element 11 includes a first magnetic film 11a, a second magnetic film 11b, and a first non-magnetic film 11c. The second magnetic film 11b is provided between the first magnetic film 11a and the second shield 42. The first non-magnetic film 11c is provided between the first magnetic film 11a and the second magnetic film 11b.

[0018] As shown in FIG. 1(b), for example, the first non-magnetic film 11c contacts the first magnetic film 11a and the second magnetic film 11b. As shown in FIG. 1(b), the thickness of the first non-magnetic film 11c along the first direction D1 is defined as a first non-magnetic film thickness t3. As shown in FIG. 1(b), the first magnetic film 11a has a first magnetic film thickness t1 along the first direction D1. The second magnetic film 11b has a second magnetic film thickness t2 along the first direction D1.

[0019] The first non-magnetic film 11c includes at least one selected from the group consisting of Cu, Ru, and Ir. The first non-magnetic film 11c has a first non-magnetic thickness t3 along the first direction D1 of 0.1 nm to 10 nm.

[0020] Under these conditions, the second magnetic film 11b is antiferromagnetically coupled to the first magnetic film 11a, and the magnetization of the second magnetic film 11b includes a component that is opposite in direction to the magnetization of the first magnetic film 11a.

[0021] In the embodiment, the first magnetic film 11a has a first magnetic film thickness t1 that is thinner than the second magnetic film 11b has a second magnetic film thickness t2. With this configuration, information (magnetization) recorded on the magnetic recording medium 80 can be reproduced with low noise.

[0022] In the embodiment, the magnetization direction of the magnetic film included in the first magnetic element 11 changes in accordance with the information (magnetization) of the magnetic recording medium 80. As already explained, the second magnetic film 11b is antiferromagnetically coupled to the first magnetic film 11a. The magnetizations of these magnetic films tend to rotate in conjunction with each other. At this time, due to differences in the thicknesses of these magnetic films, the changes in the magnetization of these magnetic films in accordance with the information (magnetization) of the magnetic recording medium 80 differ from one another.

[0023] For example, the exchange magnetic field is large in the thin first magnetic film 11a. On the other hand, the exchange magnetic field is small in the thick second magnetic film 11b. Due to this difference in magnetic properties, the magnetization of the second magnetic film 11b is oriented in the direction of the magnetic field from the magnetic recording medium 80. On the other hand, the magnetization of the first magnetic film 11a is oriented in the direction of the magnetic field from the magnetic recording medium 80. This causes a difference between the first electrical resistance of the first magnetic film 11a and the second electrical resistance of the second magnetic film 11b. By detecting the change in the difference in electrical resistance, the information (magnetization) of the magnetic recording medium 80 can be detected.

[0024] For example, a current is supplied between the first terminal 41T and the second terminal 42T. A voltage generated between one of the first terminal 41T and the second terminal 42T and the third terminal 43T is detected. This makes it possible to detect information (magnetization) on the magnetic recording medium 80.

[0025] In the reproducing unit 70 of the reference example, a laminate including multiple stacked magnetic layers is provided between four shields. In this reference example, multiple non-magnetic layers are further provided between the multiple magnetic layers. Reproduction is performed by changing the angle between the magnetizations of the two magnetic layers depending on the information (magnetization) recorded on the magnetic recording medium 80. In the reference example, multiple magnetic layers are provided, and therefore each of the multiple magnetic layers is thin. As a result, the multiple magnetic layers are significantly affected by thermal fluctuation. Noise is significant. It is difficult to achieve stable reproduction operation.

[0026] In contrast, in the embodiment, the first magnetic element 11 includes a first magnetic film 11a, a second magnetic film 11b, and a first non-magnetic film 11c. In the embodiment, the first magnetic film 11a and the second magnetic film 11b are antiferromagnetically coupled. Therefore, these three layers essentially behave as a single magnetic film from the viewpoint of thermal fluctuation. Therefore, in the embodiment, the thickness of the first magnetic element 11 can be made substantially larger than in the reference example. This suppresses the influence of thermal fluctuation. Stable reproduction operation becomes easier to obtain. Noise is reduced. According to the embodiment, a magnetic head capable of obtaining stable characteristics can be provided.

[0027] For example, a reproduction operation is performed by detecting the difference between the magnetic characteristics between the first magnetic film 11a and the first shield 41 and the magnetic characteristics between the second magnetic film 11b and the second shield 42. For example, high-precision reproduction is possible. For example, the influence of noise is suppressed. According to the embodiment, a magnetic head capable of improving characteristics can be provided.

[0028] In the embodiment, the ratio of the absolute value of the difference between the first magnetic film thickness t1 and the second magnetic film thickness t2 to the first magnetic film thickness t1 is preferably 0.1 or greater, which makes it easier to obtain a highly accurate reproduced signal.

[0029] In the embodiment, the first magnetic film 11a and the second magnetic film 11b can be interchangeable. For example, the first magnetic film thickness t1 may be thicker than the second magnetic film thickness t2.

[0030] In the embodiment, when the first magnetic film thickness t1 is different from the second magnetic film thickness t2, the saturation magnetization of the first magnetic film 11a may be substantially the same as the saturation magnetization of the second magnetic film 11b. In this case, too, a difference in exchange coupling between the two magnetic films is obtained. For example, when the first magnetic film thickness t1 is different from the second magnetic film thickness t2, the material of the first magnetic film 11a may be substantially the same as the material of the second magnetic film 11b. In this case, too, a difference in exchange coupling between the two magnetic films is obtained.

[0031] In the embodiment, the two magnetic films may have different thicknesses and saturation magnetizations. For example, the first magnetic film 11a has a first magnetic film thickness t1 along the first direction D1 and a first saturation magnetization Ms1. The second magnetic film 11b has a second magnetic film thickness t2 along the first direction D1 and a second saturation magnetization Ms2. In the embodiment, the first product (Ms1·t1) of the first magnetic film thickness t1 and the first saturation magnetization Ms1 may be smaller than the second product (Ms2·t2) of the second magnetic film thickness t2 and the second saturation magnetization Ms2. This also enables high-precision reproduction. For example, the influence of noise is suppressed. According to the embodiment, a magnetic head with improved characteristics can be provided.

[0032] In the embodiment, the first magnetic film 11a and the second magnetic film 11b can be interchangeable. The first product may be greater than the second product.

[0033] In the embodiment, the ratio of the absolute value of the difference between the first product and the second product to the first product is preferably, for example, 0.1 or more, making it easier to obtain a highly accurate reproduced signal.

[0034] For example, the first non-magnetic film 11c may satisfy any one of the first, second, and third conditions. In the first condition, the first non-magnetic film contains Cu, and the first non-magnetic film 11c has a first non-magnetic film thickness t3 along the first direction D1 of 0.1 nm or more and 10 nm or less. In the second condition, the first non-magnetic film 11c contains Ru, and the first non-magnetic film thickness t3 is 0.3 nm or more and 2 nm or less. In the third condition, the first non-magnetic film 11c contains Ir, and the first non-magnetic film thickness t3 is 0.2 nm or more and 10 nm or less.

[0035] For example, when the non-magnetic film is a Cu film, thicknesses of 1±0.2 nm, 2.1±0.2 nm, and 3.3±0.2 nm have been reported as the thicknesses at which antiferromagnetic coupling is obtained. For example, when the non-magnetic film is a Ru film, thicknesses of 0.4±0.1 nm and 0.8±0.1 nm have been reported as the thicknesses at which antiferromagnetic coupling is obtained. For example, when the non-magnetic film is an Ir film, thicknesses of 0.4±0.1 nm and 0.8±0.1 nm have been reported as the thicknesses at which antiferromagnetic coupling is obtained. These thickness examples vary depending on several factors. These factors include, for example, the degree of interface roughness or the presence or absence of trace impurities at the interface. Taking the above factors into consideration, antiferromagnetic coupling may be obtained even with a thickness greater than the above. For example, by optimizing the thickness taking the above factors into consideration, antiferromagnetic coupling can be obtained when the first non-magnetic film thickness t3 is 0.1 nm or more and 10 nm or less.

[0036] 1(a), the first shield 41 has a first magnetization 41M. The second shield 42 has a second magnetization 42M. The directions of these magnetizations may be the same.

[0037] In one example, the first magnetization 41M of the first shield 41 includes a component in a third direction D3 that intersects the medium facing surface 10F. The second magnetization 42M of the second shield 42 includes a component in the third direction D3. The third direction D3 is, for example, the direction from the magnetic recording medium 80 to the medium facing surface 10F. The third direction D3 may also be, for example, the direction from the medium facing surface 10F to the magnetic recording medium 80 (the fourth direction D4 in FIG. 2).

[0038] As shown in FIG. 1(a), in the magnetic head 110, the reproducing section 70 may include a first non-magnetic layer 31 and a second non-magnetic layer 32. The first non-magnetic layer 31 is provided between the first shield 41 and the first magnetic element 11. The second non-magnetic layer 32 is provided between the first magnetic element 11 and the second shield 42. At least one of the first non-magnetic layer 31 and the second non-magnetic layer 32 includes at least one selected from the group consisting of Cu, Al, Au, Ag, W, Ta, Si, AlO, and MgO.

[0039] For example, the first non-magnetic layer 31 contacts the first shield 41 and the first magnetic film 11a. For example, the second non-magnetic layer 32 contacts the second magnetic film 11b and the second shield .

[0040] As shown in FIG. 1(a), in this example, the reproducing section 70 further includes a third non-magnetic layer 33. The third non-magnetic layer 33 is provided between the first magnetic element 11 and the third shield 43. The third non-magnetic layer 33 is, for example, electrically connected to the first magnetic element 11 and the third shield 43. The third terminal 43T is electrically connected to the third shield 43. For example, the third non-magnetic layer 33 includes at least one selected from the group consisting of Cu, Al, Au, and Ag.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 1, a magnetic recording device 210 according to the embodiment includes a magnetic head 110 according to the embodiment, a magnetic recording medium 80 (see FIG. 2) facing the magnetic head 110, a first circuit 51, and a second circuit 52. The first circuit 51 is configured to supply a current between a first terminal 41T and a second terminal 42T. The second circuit 52 is configured to detect a voltage between one of the first terminal 41T and the second terminal 42T and a third terminal 43T. This voltage is configured to change depending on the magnetization state recorded on the magnetic recording medium 80. According to the embodiment, a magnetic recording device capable of improving characteristics can be provided.

[0042] 3A and 3B are schematic views illustrating the characteristics of the magnetic head according to the first embodiment. The horizontal axis in these figures represents the position in the X-axis direction. The vertical axis in Figure 3(a) represents the reproduction signal S1. The reproduction signal S1 is, for example, the potential of the third terminal 43T. The vertical axis in Figure 3(b) represents the magnetic field HR corresponding to the magnetization of the magnetic recording medium 80.

[0043] As shown in FIG. 3(b), the magnetic field HR changes between positive and negative depending on the magnetization of the magnetic recording medium 80. This change corresponds to, for example, the upward and downward direction of the magnetization of the magnetic recording medium 80. As shown in FIG. 3(a), a reproduction signal S1 is obtained depending on the change in the magnetic field HR. When the magnetic field HR is low (negative and large in absolute value), the reproduction signal S1 is small. When the magnetic field HR is high (positive and large in absolute value), the reproduction signal S1 is large.

[0044] 4 and 5 are schematic views illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment. Fig. 4 is a plan view. Fig. 5 is a perspective view of a portion of the magnetic head. Fig. 4 illustrates the reproducing section 70 as seen from the medium facing surface 10F.

[0045] 4, in the magnetic head 111 according to the embodiment, the reproducing section 70 includes a first magnetic layer 21 and a second magnetic layer 22. The remaining configuration of the magnetic head 111 may be the same as that of the magnetic head 110. In FIG. 5, the first shield 41 and the second shield 42 are omitted.

[0046] The first magnetic element 11 is provided between the first magnetic layer 21 and the second magnetic layer 22 in the first direction D1. As shown in FIG. 4 , in this example, a portion of the first shield 41 is provided between the first magnetic layer 21 and the first magnetic element 11. A portion of the second shield 42 is provided between the first magnetic element 11 and the second magnetic layer 22.

[0047] 5, the first magnetic layer magnetization 21M of the first magnetic layer 21 includes a component along the third direction D3 that intersects with the medium facing surface 10F. The second magnetic layer magnetization 22M of the second magnetic layer 22 includes a component along the third direction D3.

[0048] In this magnetic head 111 as well, a signal corresponding to the information recorded on the magnetic recording medium 80 is obtained from the reproducing unit 70. For example, the voltage (detection signal) between one of the first terminal 41T and the second terminal 42T and the third terminal 43T changes according to the information recorded on the magnetic recording medium 80. In the magnetic head 111 as well, a magnetic head capable of improving characteristics can be provided.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 5, the length of the first magnetic layer 21 along the third direction D3 is defined as the first magnetic layer length L21. The length of the second magnetic layer 22 along the third direction D3 is defined as the second magnetic layer length L22. The length of the first magnetic element 11 along the third direction D3 is defined as the first magnetic element length L11. For example, the first magnetic layer length L21 is longer than the first magnetic element length L11. For example, the second magnetic layer length L22 is longer than the first magnetic element length L11. For example, stable first magnetic layer magnetization 21M and second magnetic layer magnetization 22M are easily obtained.

[0050] For example, as shown in FIG. 4, a magnetic recording device 211 according to the embodiment includes a magnetic head 111 according to the embodiment, a magnetic recording medium 80 (see FIG. 2) facing the magnetic head 111, a first circuit 51, and a second circuit 52.

[0051] 6 and 7 are schematic views illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment. Fig. 6 is a plan view. Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a portion of the magnetic head. Fig. 7 illustrates the reproducing section 70 as seen from the medium facing surface 10F.

[0052] 6, in the magnetic head 112 according to the embodiment, the reproducing section 70 further includes a third magnetic layer 23 and a fourth magnetic layer 24. Except for this, the configuration of the magnetic head 112 may be the same as the configuration of the magnetic head 111.

[0053] The third magnetic layer 23 includes, for example, IrMn. The fourth magnetic layer 24 includes IrMn. The first magnetic layer 21 is provided between the third magnetic layer 23 and the first magnetic element 11. The second magnetic layer 22 is provided between the first magnetic element 11 and the fourth magnetic layer 24. For example, stable first magnetic layer magnetization 21M and second magnetic layer magnetization 22M can be obtained.

[0054] The first magnetic layer 21 and the second magnetic layer 22 are, for example, ferromagnetic layers, and the third magnetic layer 23 and the fourth magnetic layer 24 are antiferromagnetic layers.

[0055] 7, the first magnetic layer magnetization 21M of the first magnetic layer 21 includes a component along the third direction D3 that intersects with the medium facing surface 10F. The second magnetic layer magnetization 22M of the second magnetic layer 22 includes a component along the third direction D3.

[0056] For example, as shown in FIG. 6, a magnetic recording device 212 according to the embodiment includes the magnetic head 112 according to the embodiment, a magnetic recording medium 80 (see FIG. 2) facing the magnetic head 112, a first circuit 51, and a second circuit 52.

[0057] 8, 9, 10(a) and 10(b) are schematic views illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is a plan view. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a portion of the magnetic head. FIG. 10(a) is a cross-sectional view taken along line Y1-Y2 in FIG. 8. FIG. 10(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line Y3-Y4 in FIG. 8. FIG. 8 illustrates the reproducing section 70 as viewed from the medium facing surface 10F. As shown in FIG. 9, in the magnetic head 113 according to the embodiment, the first shield 41 and the second shield 42 include sides that are inclined with respect to the third direction D3. Except for this, the configuration of the magnetic head 113 may be similar to that of, for example, the magnetic head 110.

[0058] As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10(a), the first shield 41 includes a first side s1. As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10(b), the second shield 42 includes a second side s2. The first side s1 and the second side s2 are inclined with respect to the third direction D3. The inclined sides control the magnetic properties of these shields. The first magnetic element 11 is provided between such shields. With this configuration, a signal corresponding to information recorded on the magnetic recording medium 80 is obtained from the reproducing unit 70. For example, the voltage (detection signal) between one of the first terminal 41T and the second terminal 42T and the third terminal 43T changes according to the information recorded on the magnetic recording medium 80.

[0059] 10(a), the first side s1 of the first shield 41 includes a first end p1 and a first other end pa1. As shown in FIG. 10(b), the second side s2 of the second shield 42 includes a second end p2 and a second other end pa2.

[0060] 10A, the distance along the third direction D3 between the first end p1 and the medium facing surface 10F is shorter than the distance along the third direction D3 between the first other end pa1 and the medium facing surface 10F. The position of the first end p1 in the second direction D2 is between the position of at least a portion of the third shield 43 in the second direction D2 and the position of the first other end pa1 in the second direction D2. With this configuration, the first side s1 is inclined with respect to the third direction D3.

[0061] 10(b), the distance along the third direction D3 between the second end p2 and the medium facing surface 10F is shorter than the distance along the third direction D3 between the second other end pa2 and the medium facing surface 10F. The position of the second end p2 in the second direction D2 is between the position of at least a portion of the third shield 43 in the second direction D2 and the position of the second other end pa2 in the second direction D2. With this configuration, the second side s2 is inclined with respect to the third direction D3. The direction of inclination of the second side s2 is the same as the direction of inclination of the first side s1.

[0062] With this configuration, it has been found that at least a portion of the first shield 41 and at least a portion of the second shield 42 each include a component along the third direction D3.

[0063] 9, in one example, the first magnetization 41M of the first shield 41 includes a component along the second direction D2. The second magnetization 42M of the second shield 42 includes the above component along the second direction D2. By providing the inclined sides, at least a portion of the first shield 41 and at least a portion of the second shield 42 include a component along the third direction D3.

[0064] 11A and 11B are schematic views illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment. Fig. 11(a) illustrates a simulation result of the first magnetization 41M of the first shield 41. Fig. 11(b) illustrates a simulation result of the second magnetization 42M of the second shield 42. The arrows in these figures indicate the direction of magnetization.

[0065] 11(a), the first magnetization 41M of the first shield 41 is generally aligned along the second direction D2. In particular, at a position far from the medium facing surface 10F, the first magnetization 41M of the first shield 41 is substantially parallel to the second direction D2.

[0066] 11(a), the magnetization in a part of the first shield 41 includes a component along the third direction D3. For example, the first shield 41 includes a first region r1. The first region r1 faces the first magnetic element 11. The first region magnetization r1M of the first region r1 includes a component along the third direction D3.

[0067] Similarly, as shown in FIG. 11(b), the second magnetization 42M of the second shield 42 is generally aligned along the second direction D2. As shown in FIG. 11(b), in a portion of the second shield 42, the magnetization includes a component aligned along the third direction D3. The second shield 42 includes a second region r2. The second region r2 faces the first magnetic element 11. The second region magnetization r2M of the second region r2 includes a component aligned along the third direction D3.

[0068] For example, at the inclined first side s1, the magnetization includes a component along the third direction D3 due to exchange coupling. At the inclined second side s2, the magnetization includes a component along the third direction D3 due to exchange coupling. It is thought that the influence of the magnetization at these sides causes the magnetization in the first region r1 and the second region r2 to include a component along the third direction D3.

[0069] A change in the angle between the first region magnetization r1M, which includes a component along the third direction D3, and the magnetization of the first magnetic film 11a causes a change in the first electrical resistance between the first shield 41 and the first magnetic element 11. This is believed to be due to the magnetoresistance effect. A change in the angle between the second region magnetization r2M, which includes a component along the third direction D3, and the magnetization of the second magnetic film 11b causes a change in the second electrical resistance between the second shield 42 and the first magnetic element 11. This is believed to be due to the magnetoresistance effect.

[0070] As shown in Fig. 10(a), the angle between the first side s1 and the third direction D3 is defined as a first angle θ1. In the embodiment, the first angle θ1 may be, for example, 5 degrees or greater and 85 degrees or less. As shown in Fig. 11(b), the angle between the second side s2 and the third direction D3 is defined as a second angle θ2. The second angle θ2 may be, for example, 5 degrees or greater and 85 degrees or less.

[0071] As shown in FIG. 10(a), the first shield 41 has a first end length L1 along a straight line that passes through the first end p1 and extends in the third direction D3. The first shield 41 has a first other end length La1 along a straight line that passes through the first other end pa1 and extends in the third direction D3. The first end length L1 is 1.1 to 10 times the first other end length La1. As shown in FIG. 10(b), the second shield 42 has a second end length L2 along a straight line that passes through the second end p2 and extends in the third direction D3. The second shield 42 has a second other end length La2 along a straight line that passes through the second other end pa2 and extends in the third direction D3. The second end length L2 is 1.1 to 10 times the second other end length La2. Highly accurate detection signals can be stably obtained.

[0072] For example, the first end length L1 may be 10 nm or more and 10 μm or less. For example, the first other end length La1 may be 0 nm or more and 10 μm or less. For example, the second end length L2 may be 10 nm or more and 10 μm or less. For example, the second other end length La2 may be 0 nm or more and 10 μm or less.

[0073] As shown in FIG. 10(a), the length of the first shield 41 along the second direction D2 is defined as a first shield width W41. In one example, the first shield width W41 is 1 nm or more and 1 μm or less. As shown in FIG. 10(b), the length of the second shield 42 along the second direction D2 is defined as a second shield width W42. In one example, the second shield width W42 is 1 nm or more and 1 μm or less.

[0074] 10(a), a portion of the first shield 41 may overlap with the fourth shield 44 in the first direction. As shown in FIG. 10(b), a portion of the second shield 42 may overlap with the fourth shield 44 in the first direction D1.

[0075] For example, as shown in FIG. 8, a magnetic recording device 213 according to the embodiment includes a magnetic head 113 according to the embodiment, a magnetic recording medium 80 (see FIG. 2) facing the magnetic head 113, a first circuit 51, and a second circuit 52.

[0076] FIG. 12 is a schematic plan view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment. Fig. 12 illustrates the reproducing section 70 of the magnetic head 113a according to the embodiment, as viewed from the medium facing surface 10F.

[0077] In the magnetic head 113a, the reproducing section 70 further includes a first other shield 41 A and a second other shield 42 A. The structure of the magnetic head 113a other than this may be the same as that of the magnetic head 113.

[0078] The first shield 41 is provided between the first other shield 41A and the first magnetic element 11 in the first direction D1. The second shield 42 is provided between the first magnetic element 11 and the second other shield 42A in the first direction D1. At least a portion of the third shield 43 is provided between the first other shield 41A and the second other shield 42A in the first direction D1. At least a portion of the fourth shield 44 is provided between the first other shield 41A and the second other shield 42A in the first direction D1.

[0079] Even with such a magnetic head 113a, for example, high-precision reproduction is possible, for example, the influence of noise is suppressed, and characteristics can be improved.

[0080] In the embodiment, at least one of the first magnetic film 11a and the second magnetic film 11b includes, for example, at least one selected from the group consisting of Fe and Co. At least one of the first shield 41, the second shield 42, the third shield 43, and the fourth shield 44 includes at least one selected from the group consisting of Fe, Co, and Ni. These shields may include a soft magnetic material.

[0081] FIG. 13 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment. 13 illustrates the third terminal 43T in the magnetic head 114 according to the embodiment. In the magnetic head 114, the third terminal 43T is connected to the first magnetic element 11 without a shield. The configuration of the magnetic head 114 may be applied to the magnetic head 110, the magnetic head 111, the magnetic head 112, the magnetic head 113, the magnetic head 113a, and the like.

[0082] (Second embodiment) The second embodiment relates to a magnetic recording device. As already explained, the magnetic recording device according to the embodiment (for example, the magnetic recording device 210) includes a magnetic head according to the embodiment (for example, the magnetic head 110) and a magnetic recording medium 80 (see FIG. 2). The magnetic recording device according to the embodiment may include any magnetic head according to the first embodiment.

[0083] FIG. 14 is a schematic view illustrating the magnetic recording device according to the embodiment. 14 illustrates an example of the configuration of the second circuit 52 in the magnetic recording device 215 according to the embodiment. The second circuit 52 includes a first differential circuit 52a and a second differential circuit 52b. The first differential circuit 52a includes a first input portion 52ap and a first other input portion 52an. The second differential circuit 52b includes a second input portion 52bp and a second other input portion 52bn.

[0084] For example, the first input section 52ap is the positive input of the first differential circuit 52a. For example, the first other input section 52an is the negative input of the first differential circuit 52a. For example, the second input section 52bp is the positive input of the second differential circuit 52b. For example, the second other input section 52bn is the negative input of the second differential circuit 52b.

[0085] The first input portion 52ap is electrically connected to the first terminal 41T. The first other input portion 52an is electrically connected to the third terminal 43T. The second input portion 52bp is electrically connected to the second terminal 42T. The second other input portion 52bn is electrically connected to the third terminal 43T.

[0086] 14, the first differential circuit 52a further includes a first output section 52ao. The second differential circuit 52b further includes a second output section 52bo. At least a portion of the signal (reproduced signal) from the reproducing section 70 is obtained from the first differential circuit 52a. At least a portion of the signal (reproduced signal) from the reproducing section 70 is obtained from the second differential circuit 52b.

[0087] For example, the voltage of the first output section 52ao and the voltage of the second output section 52bo change according to the information (magnetization) recorded on the magnetic recording medium 80. When the voltage of the first output section 52ao increases, the voltage of the second output section 52bo decreases. When the voltage of the first output section 52ao decreases, the voltage of the second output section 52bo increases.

[0088] The second circuit 52 may further include a third differential circuit 52c. The third differential circuit 52c includes a third input port 52cp and a third other input port 52cn. The third input port 52cp is, for example, the positive input of the third differential circuit 52c. The third other input port 52cn is, for example, the negative input of the third differential circuit 52c. The third input port 52cp is electrically connected to one of the first output port 52ao and the second output port 52bo. The third other input port 52cn is electrically connected to the other of the first output port 52ao and the second output port 52bo.

[0089] For example, the difference between the potential of the first output port 52ao and the potential of the second output port 52bo is output from the third output port 52co of the third differential circuit 52c. Differential processing can, for example, obtain a signal with higher strength. For example, a signal with reduced noise can be obtained. Generation can be performed with higher accuracy. The signal obtained from the third output port 52co can be supplied to a voltmeter 52d.

[0090] The configuration described with respect to the magnetic recording device 215 may be applied to any magnetic recording device according to the embodiment.

[0091] An example of the configuration of the magnetic head and magnetic recording device according to the embodiment will be described below. In the following example, a magnetic head 110 is used as the magnetic head according to the embodiment.

[0092] FIG. 15 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the magnetic head according to the embodiment. 15, the magnetic head 110 according to the embodiment may further include a recording unit 90. The recording unit 90 of the magnetic head 110 records information on the magnetic recording medium 80. The reproducing unit 70 reproduces the information recorded on the magnetic recording medium 80.

[0093] The magnetic recording medium 80 includes, for example, a medium substrate 82 and a magnetic recording layer 81 provided on the medium substrate 82. The magnetization 83 of the magnetic recording layer 81 is controlled by a recording unit 90. The recording unit 90 includes, for example, a first magnetic pole 91 and a second magnetic pole 92. The first magnetic pole 91 is, for example, a main magnetic pole. The second magnetic pole 92 is, for example, a trailing shield. The recording unit 90 may include a recording element 93. The recording element 93 may include a magnetic field control element, a heating element, a high-frequency oscillation element, or the like. The recording element 93 may be omitted.

[0094] The reproducing unit 70 includes, for example, a first shield 41, a second shield 42, and a first magnetic element 11. The first magnetic element 11 can output a signal according to the magnetization 83 of the magnetic recording layer 81. In FIG. 15, the third shield 43 and the fourth shield 44 are omitted.

[0095] 15, magnetic recording medium 80 moves relative to magnetic head 110 in medium movement direction 85. Information corresponding to magnetization 83 of magnetic recording layer 81 is controlled by magnetic head 110 at any position. Information corresponding to magnetization 83 of magnetic recording layer 81 is reproduced by magnetic head 110 at any position.

[0096] FIG. 16 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a part of the magnetic recording device according to the embodiment. FIG. 16 illustrates a head slider. The magnetic head 110 is provided on a head slider 159. The head slider 159 includes, for example, Al2O3 / TiC. The head slider 159 moves relative to the magnetic recording medium while floating above or in contact with the magnetic recording medium.

[0097] The head slider 159 has, for example, an air inflow side 159A and an air outflow side 159B. The magnetic head 110 is disposed on the side of the air outflow side 159B of the head slider 159. This allows the magnetic head 110 to move relative to the magnetic recording medium while floating above or in contact with the magnetic recording medium.

[0098] FIG. 17 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the magnetic recording device according to the embodiment. 18A and 18B are schematic perspective views illustrating a part of the magnetic recording device according to the embodiment. The magnetic recording device may be a magnetic recording and reproducing device. As shown in FIG. 17, a rotary actuator is used in the magnetic recording device 150 according to the embodiment. The recording medium disk 180 is mounted on a spindle motor 180M. The recording medium disk 180 is rotated in the direction of the arrow AR by the spindle motor 180M. The spindle motor 180M responds to a control signal from a drive control unit. The magnetic recording device 150 according to the embodiment may include a plurality of recording medium disks 180. The magnetic recording device 150 may include a recording medium 181. The recording medium 181 is, for example, an SSD (Solid State Drive). The recording medium 181 may be, for example, a non-volatile memory such as a flash memory. For example, the magnetic recording device 150 may be a hybrid HDD (Hard Disk Drive).

[0099] The head slider 159 records and reproduces information to be recorded on the recording medium disk 180. The head slider 159 is provided at the tip of the thin-film suspension 154. Near the tip of the head slider 159, a magnetic head according to the embodiment is provided.

[0100] When the recording medium disk 180 rotates, the pressing pressure from the suspension 154 and the pressure generated at the air bearing surface (ABS) of the head slider 159 are balanced. The distance between the air bearing surface of the head slider 159 and the surface of the recording medium disk 180 is a predetermined flying height. In an embodiment, the head slider 159 may be in contact with the recording medium disk 180. For example, a contact traveling type may be applied.

[0101] The suspension 154 is connected to one end of an arm 155 (e.g., an actuator arm). The arm 155 has, for example, a bobbin portion. The bobbin portion holds a drive coil. A voice coil motor 156 is provided at the other end of the arm 155. The voice coil motor 156 is a type of linear motor. The voice coil motor 156 includes, for example, a drive coil and a magnetic circuit. The drive coil is wound around the bobbin portion of the arm 155. The magnetic circuit includes a permanent magnet and an opposing yoke. The drive coil is provided between the permanent magnet and the opposing yoke. The suspension 154 has one end and the other end. The magnetic head is provided at one end of the suspension 154. The arm 155 is connected to the other end of the suspension 154.

[0102] Arm 155 is held by ball bearings. The ball bearings are provided at two locations, above and below bearing portion 157. Arm 155 can rotate and slide using voice coil motor 156. The magnetic head can be moved to any position on recording medium disk 180.

[0103] FIG. 18(a) is an enlarged perspective view of a head stack assembly 160, illustrating the configuration of a portion of the magnetic recording device. FIG. 18B is a perspective view illustrating a magnetic head assembly (head gimbal assembly: HGA) 158 that is part of the head stack assembly 160. As shown in FIG.

[0104] 18(a), the head stack assembly 160 includes a bearing portion 157, a head gimbal assembly 158, and a support frame 161. The head gimbal assembly 158 extends from the bearing portion 157. The support frame 161 extends in the opposite direction to the extension direction of the head gimbal assembly 158. The support frame 161 supports a coil 162 of the voice coil motor 156.

[0105] As shown in FIG. 18( b ), the head gimbal assembly 158 has an arm 155 extending from a bearing portion 157 and a suspension 154 extending from the arm 155 .

[0106] A head slider 159 is provided at the tip of the suspension 154. The head slider 159 is provided with the magnetic head according to the embodiment.

[0107] A magnetic head assembly (head gimbal assembly) 158 according to the embodiment includes a magnetic head according to the embodiment, a head slider 159 provided with the magnetic head, a suspension 154, and an arm 155. The head slider 159 is provided at one end of the suspension 154. The arm 155 is connected to the other end of the suspension 154.

[0108] The suspension 154 has, for example, lead wires (not shown) for recording and reproducing signals. The suspension 154 may also have, for example, lead wires (not shown) for a heater for adjusting the flying height. The suspension 154 may also have lead wires (not shown) for an oscillation element, for example. These lead wires are electrically connected to a plurality of electrodes provided on the magnetic head.

[0109] The magnetic recording device 150 is provided with a signal processing unit 190. The signal processing unit 190 uses a magnetic head to record and reproduce signals on a magnetic recording medium. Input / output lines of the signal processing unit 190 are connected to, for example, electrode pads of the head gimbal assembly 158, and are electrically connected to the magnetic head.

[0110] The magnetic recording device 150 according to the embodiment includes a magnetic recording medium, a magnetic head according to the embodiment, a movable unit, a position control unit, and a signal processing unit. The movable unit enables the magnetic recording medium and the magnetic head to be moved relatively while being separated from each other or in contact with each other. The position control unit aligns the magnetic head with a predetermined recording position on the magnetic recording medium. The signal processing unit records and reproduces signals on the magnetic recording medium using the magnetic head.

[0111] For example, the magnetic recording medium is a recording medium disk 180. The movable part includes, for example, a head slider 159. The position control unit includes, for example, a head gimbal assembly 158.

[0112] The embodiments may include the following technical solutions. (Technical proposal 1) a reproducing section including a medium-facing surface; The playback unit A first shield; a second shield, the direction from the first shield to the second shield being along a first direction along the medium facing surface; The third shield, a fourth shield, wherein a second direction from the third shield to the fourth shield is along the medium facing surface and intersects with the first direction; a first magnetic element provided between the first shield and the second shield and between the third shield and the fourth shield, the first magnetic element including a first magnetic film, a second magnetic film provided between the first magnetic film and the second shield, and a first non-magnetic film provided between the first magnetic film and the second magnetic film; a first terminal electrically connected to the first shield; a second terminal electrically connected to the second shield; a third terminal electrically connected to the first magnetic element; Including, the first non-magnetic film includes at least one selected from the group consisting of Cu, Ru, and Ir; a first non-magnetic film thickness along the first direction of the first non-magnetic film is 0.1 nm or more and 10 nm or less; the first magnetic film has a first magnetic film thickness along the first direction, the second magnetic film has a second magnetic film thickness along the first direction, A magnetic head, wherein the first magnetic film is thinner than the second magnetic film.

[0113] (Technical proposal 2) The magnetic head described in Technical Solution 1, wherein the ratio of the absolute value of the difference between the first magnetic film thickness and the second magnetic film thickness to the first magnetic film thickness is 0.1 or more.

[0114] (Technical proposal 3) a reproducing section including a medium-facing surface; The playback unit A first shield; a second shield, the direction from the first shield to the second shield being along a first direction along the medium facing surface; The third shield, a fourth shield, wherein a second direction from the third shield to the fourth shield is along the medium facing surface and intersects with the first direction; a first magnetic element provided between the first shield and the second shield and between the third shield and the fourth shield, the first magnetic element including a first magnetic film, a second magnetic film provided between the first magnetic film and the second shield, and a first non-magnetic film provided between the first magnetic film and the second magnetic film; a first terminal electrically connected to the first shield; a second terminal electrically connected to the second shield; a third terminal electrically connected to the first magnetic element; Including, the first non-magnetic film includes at least one selected from the group consisting of Cu, Ru, and Ir; a first non-magnetic film thickness along the first direction of the first non-magnetic film is 0.1 nm or more and 10 nm or less; the first magnetic film has a first magnetic film thickness along the first direction and a first saturation magnetization; the second magnetic film has a second magnetic film thickness along the first direction and a second saturation magnetization; A magnetic head, wherein a first product of the first magnetic film thickness and the first saturation magnetization is smaller than a second product of the second magnetic film thickness and the second saturation magnetization.

[0115] (Technical proposal 4) The magnetic head according to Technical Solution 3, wherein the ratio of the absolute value of the difference between the first product and the second product to the first product is 0.1 or more.

[0116] (Technical proposal 5) 5. The magnetic head according to any one of Technical Solutions 1 to 4, wherein the second magnetic film is antiferromagnetically coupled to the first magnetic film.

[0117] (Technical proposal 6) The playback unit a first nonmagnetic layer provided between the first shield and the first magnetic element; a second nonmagnetic layer provided between the first magnetic element and the second shield; further comprising The magnetic head described in any one of Technical Solutions 1 to 5, wherein at least one of the first non-magnetic layer and the second non-magnetic layer includes at least one selected from the group consisting of Cu, Al, Au, Ag, W, Ta, Si, AlO, and MgO.

[0118] (Technical proposal 7) the reproducing section further includes a third nonmagnetic layer provided between the first magnetic element and the third shield, the third nonmagnetic layer is electrically connected to the first magnetic element and the third shield; the third terminal is electrically connected to the third shield; The magnetic head according to Technical Solution 6, wherein the third non-magnetic layer includes at least one selected from the group consisting of Cu, Al, Au, and Ag.

[0119] (Technical proposal 8) the first magnetization of the first shield includes a component in a third direction intersecting the medium facing surface, The magnetic head according to any one of Technical Solutions 1 to 7, wherein the second magnetization of the second shield includes a component in the third direction.

[0120] (Technical proposal 9) the reproducing unit further includes a first magnetic layer and a second magnetic layer; the first magnetic element is provided between the first magnetic layer and the second magnetic layer in the first direction; the first magnetic layer magnetization of the first magnetic layer includes a component along a third direction intersecting the medium facing surface, The magnetic head according to any one of Technical Solutions 1 to 7, wherein the second magnetic layer magnetization of the second magnetic layer includes a component along the third direction.

[0121] (Technical proposal 10) The playback unit a third magnetic layer containing IrMn; a fourth magnetic layer containing IrMn; further comprising the first magnetic layer is provided between the third magnetic layer and the first magnetic element, The magnetic head according to Technical Solution 9, wherein the second magnetic layer is provided between the first magnetic element and the fourth magnetic layer.

[0122] (Technical proposal 11) a portion of the first shield is provided between the first magnetic layer and the first magnetic element; The magnetic head according to Technical Solution 9 or 10, wherein a portion of the second shield is provided between the first magnetic element and the second magnetic layer.

[0123] (Technical proposal 12) a first magnetic layer length along the third direction of the first magnetic layer is longer than a first magnetic element length along the third direction of the first magnetic element; 12. The magnetic head according to any one of Technical Solutions 9 to 11, wherein a second magnetic layer length of the second magnetic layer along the third direction is longer than a first magnetic element length.

[0124] (Technical proposal 13) the first shield includes a first side including a first end and a first other end; the second shield includes a second side including a second end and a second other end; a distance along the third direction between the first end and the medium facing surface is shorter than a distance along the third direction between the first other end and the medium facing surface; the third direction intersects with the medium facing surface, a position of the first end in the second direction is between a position of at least a portion of the third shield in the second direction and a position of the first other end in the second direction, a distance along the third direction between the second end and the medium facing surface is shorter than a distance along the third direction between the second other end and the medium facing surface; A magnetic head described in any one of technical proposals 1 to 7, wherein the position of the second end in the second direction is between the position of at least a portion of the third shield in the second direction and the position of the second other end in the second direction.

[0125] (Technical proposal 14) a first angle between the first side and the third direction is equal to or greater than 5 degrees and equal to or less than 85 degrees; The magnetic head described in Technical Solution 13, wherein a second angle between the second side and the third direction is greater than or equal to 5 degrees and less than or equal to 85 degrees.

[0126] (Technical proposal 15) a portion of the first shield overlaps with the fourth shield in the first direction; A magnetic head according to technical proposal 13 or 14, wherein a portion of the second shield overlaps with the fourth shield in the first direction.

[0127] (Technical proposal 16) The regenerating unit further includes a first other shield and a second other shield, the first shield is provided between the first other shield and the first magnetic element in the first direction; the second shield is provided between the first magnetic element and the second other shield in the first direction, At least a portion of the third shield is provided between the first other shield and the second other shield in the first direction, The magnetic head according to any one of Technical Solutions 13 to 15, wherein at least a portion of the fourth shield is provided between the first other shield and the second other shield in the first direction.

[0128] (Technical proposal 17) the first shield includes a first region facing the first magnetic element; the second shield includes a second region facing the first magnetic element; the first region magnetization of the first region includes a component along the third direction, 17. The magnetic head according to any one of Technical Solutions 13 to 16, wherein the second region magnetization of the second region includes a component along the third direction.

[0129] (Technical proposal 18) A magnetic head according to any one of technical proposals 1 to 17; a magnetic recording medium facing the magnetic head; The first circuit, A second circuit; Equipped with the first circuit is configured to supply a current between the first terminal and the second terminal; the second circuit is configured to detect a voltage between one of the first terminal and the second terminal and the third terminal; A magnetic recording device configured such that the voltage changes depending on the magnetization state recorded on the magnetic recording medium.

[0130] (Technical proposal 19) The second circuit is a first differential circuit including a first input section and a first other input section; a second differential circuit including a second input section and a second other input section; Including, the first input unit is electrically connected to the first terminal, the first other input unit is electrically connected to the third terminal, the second input unit is electrically connected to the second terminal, The magnetic recording device according to Technical Solution 18, wherein the second other input unit is electrically connected to the third terminal.

[0131] (Technical proposal 20) the first differential circuit further includes a first output section; the second differential circuit further includes a second output section; the second circuit further includes a third differential circuit including a third input section and a third other input section; the third input unit is electrically connected to one of the first output unit and the second output unit; The magnetic recording device described in Technical Solution 19, wherein the third other input unit is electrically connected to the other of the first output unit and the second output unit.

[0132] According to the embodiment, it is possible to provide a magnetic head and a magnetic recording device that can obtain stable characteristics.

[0133] In this specification, "vertical" and "parallel" do not only mean strictly vertical and strictly parallel, but also include variations in the manufacturing process, and may mean substantially vertical and substantially parallel.

[0134] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to specific examples. However, the present invention is not limited to these specific examples. For example, the specific configurations of the elements included in the magnetic head and magnetic recording device, such as the shield, magnetic element, and terminals, are within the scope of the present invention as long as a person skilled in the art can implement the present invention in a similar manner and obtain similar effects by appropriately selecting them from known ranges.

[0135] Any combination of two or more elements of each embodiment to the extent technically possible is also included within the scope of the present invention as long as it encompasses the gist of the present invention.

[0136] In addition, all magnetic heads and magnetic recording devices that can be implemented by a person skilled in the art by appropriately modifying the design based on the magnetic heads and magnetic recording devices described above as embodiments of the present invention also fall within the scope of the present invention, as long as they include the gist of the present invention.

[0137] In addition, within the scope of the concept of the present invention, a person skilled in the art may come up with various modifications and alterations, and it will be understood that these modifications and alterations also fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0138] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and are also included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents as defined in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0139] 10F: medium facing surface, 11: first magnetic element, 11a, 11b: first and second magnetic films, 11c: first non-magnetic film, 21-24: first to fourth magnetic layers, 21M, 22M: first and second magnetic layer magnetizations, 31-33: first to third non-magnetic layers, 41-44: first to fourth shields, 41A, 42A: first and second other shields, 41M, 42M: first and second magnetizations, 41T-43T: first to third terminals, 51, 52: first and second circuits, 52a, 52b, 52c: first to third differential circuits, 52an, 52bn, 52cn: first to third other input sections, 52ao, 52bo, 52co: first to third output sections, 52ap, 52bp, 52cp: first to third input sections, 52d: voltmeter, 70: reproduction section, 80: magnetic recording medium, 81: magnetic recording layer, 82: medium substrate, 83: magnetization, 85: medium movement direction, 90: recording section, 91, 92: first and second magnetic poles, 93: recording element, 110-114, 113a: magnetic head, 150: magnetic recording device, 154: suspension, 155: arm, 156: voice coil motor, 157: bearing section, 158: head gimbal assembly, 159: head slider, 159A: air inlet side, 159B: air outlet side, 160: head stack assembly, 161: support frame, 162: coil, 180: recording medium disk, 180M: spindle motor, 181: recording medium, 190: signal processing unit, 210-213, 215: magnetic recording device, AR: arrow, D1-D4: first to fourth directions, HR: magnetic field, L1, L2: first and second end lengths, L11: first magnetic element length, L21, L22: first and second magnetic layer lengths, La1, La2: first and second other end lengths, S1: reproduction signal, W41, W42: first and second shield widths, p1, p2: first and second ends, pa1, pa2: first and second other ends, r1, r2: first and second regions, r1M, r2M: first and second region magnetizations, s1, s2: first and second sides, t1, t2: first and second magnetic film thicknesses, t3...first non-magnetic film thickness, θ1, θ2: first and second angles

Claims

1. a reproducing section including a medium-facing surface; The playback unit A first shield; a second shield, the direction from the first shield to the second shield being along a first direction along the medium facing surface; A third shield; and a fourth shield, wherein a second direction from the third shield to the fourth shield is along the medium facing surface and intersects with the first direction; a first magnetic element provided between the first shield and the second shield and between the third shield and the fourth shield, the first magnetic element including a first magnetic film, a second magnetic film provided between the first magnetic film and the second shield, and a first non-magnetic film provided between the first magnetic film and the second magnetic film; a first terminal electrically connected to the first shield; a second terminal electrically connected to the second shield; a third terminal electrically connected to the first magnetic element; Including, the first non-magnetic film includes at least one selected from the group consisting of Cu, Ru, and Ir; a first non-magnetic film thickness along the first direction of the first non-magnetic film is 0.1 nm or more and 10 nm or less; the first magnetic film has a first magnetic film thickness along the first direction, the second magnetic film has a second magnetic film thickness along the first direction, A magnetic head, wherein the first magnetic film thickness is thinner than the second magnetic film thickness.

2. a reproducing section including a medium-facing surface; The playback unit A first shield; a second shield, the direction from the first shield to the second shield being along a first direction along the medium facing surface; A third shield; and a fourth shield, wherein a second direction from the third shield to the fourth shield is along the medium facing surface and intersects with the first direction; a first magnetic element provided between the first shield and the second shield and between the third shield and the fourth shield, the first magnetic element including a first magnetic film, a second magnetic film provided between the first magnetic film and the second shield, and a first non-magnetic film provided between the first magnetic film and the second magnetic film; a first terminal electrically connected to the first shield; a second terminal electrically connected to the second shield; a third terminal electrically connected to the first magnetic element; Including, the first non-magnetic film includes at least one selected from the group consisting of Cu, Ru, and Ir; a first non-magnetic film thickness along the first direction of the first non-magnetic film is 0.1 nm or more and 10 nm or less; the first magnetic film has a first magnetic film thickness along the first direction and a first saturation magnetization; the second magnetic film has a second magnetic film thickness along the first direction and a second saturation magnetization; A magnetic head, wherein a first product of the first magnetic film thickness and the first saturation magnetization is smaller than a second product of the second magnetic film thickness and the second saturation magnetization.

3. 2. The magnetic head according to claim 1, wherein said second magnetic film is antiferromagnetically coupled to said first magnetic film.

4. The playback unit a first nonmagnetic layer provided between the first shield and the first magnetic element; a second nonmagnetic layer provided between the first magnetic element and the second shield; further comprising 2. The magnetic head according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the first non-magnetic layer and the second non-magnetic layer includes at least one selected from the group consisting of Cu, Al, Au, Ag, W, Ta, Si, AlO, and MgO.

5. the first magnetization of the first shield includes a component in a third direction intersecting the medium facing surface, 5. The magnetic head according to claim 1, wherein the second magnetization of the second shield includes a component in the third direction.

6. the reproducing section further includes a first magnetic layer and a second magnetic layer; the first magnetic element is provided between the first magnetic layer and the second magnetic layer in the first direction; the first magnetic layer magnetization of the first magnetic layer includes a component along a third direction intersecting the medium facing surface, The magnetic head according to claim 1 , wherein the second magnetic layer magnetization of the second magnetic layer includes a component along the third direction.

7. the first shield includes a first side including a first end and a first other end; the second shield includes a second side including a second end and a second other end; a distance along the third direction between the first end and the medium facing surface is shorter than a distance along the third direction between the first other end and the medium facing surface; the third direction intersects with the medium facing surface, a position of the first end in the second direction is between a position of at least a portion of the third shield in the second direction and a position of the first other end in the second direction, a distance along the third direction between the second end and the medium facing surface is shorter than a distance along the third direction between the second other end and the medium facing surface; The magnetic head of claim 1 , wherein the position of the second end in the second direction is between the position of the at least part of the third shield in the second direction and the position of the second other end in the second direction.

8. The magnetic head according to claim 1; a magnetic recording medium facing the magnetic head; A first circuit; A second circuit; Equipped with the first circuit is configured to supply a current between the first terminal and the second terminal; the second circuit is configured to detect a voltage between one of the first terminal and the second terminal and the third terminal; A magnetic recording device configured such that the voltage changes depending on the magnetization state recorded on the magnetic recording medium.

9. The second circuit is a first differential circuit including a first input section and a first other input section; a second differential circuit including a second input section and a second other input section; Including, the first input unit is electrically connected to the first terminal, the first other input unit is electrically connected to the third terminal, the second input unit is electrically connected to the second terminal, The magnetic recording device according to claim 8 , wherein the second other input section is electrically connected to the third terminal.

10. the first differential circuit further includes a first output section; the second differential circuit further includes a second output section; the second circuit further includes a third differential circuit including a third input section and a third other input section; the third input unit is electrically connected to one of the first output unit and the second output unit; The magnetic recording device according to claim 9 , wherein the third other input section is electrically connected to the other of the first output section and the second output section.

Images