Magnetic reproduction processing apparatus, magnetic recording and reproducing apparatus, and magnetic reproduction method

Abstract

The present invention provides a magnetic reproduction processing apparatus, a magnetic recording and reproducing apparatus, and a magnetic reproduction method that can improve the recording and reproduction density. According to an embodiment, the magnetic reproduction processing apparatus includes an acquisition unit and a processing unit. The acquisition unit can acquire a first electrical signal and a second electrical signal. The first electrical signal is obtained by a first reproduction element reproducing information recorded in a first recording area of a magnetic recording medium, and the second electrical signal is obtained by a second reproduction element reproducing the information recorded in the first recording area. The first sensitivity of the first reproduction element to the magnetic signal recorded in the magnetic recording medium is different from the second sensitivity of the second reproduction element to the magnetic signal. The processing unit can output a reproduction signal corresponding to the information recorded in the first recording area based on the first electrical signal and the second electrical signal acquired by the acquisition unit.

Description

[0001] This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2021-139033 (filing date: August 27, 2021) and claims the benefit of priority therefrom. This application incorporates all of the contents of that application by reference thereto. Technical Field

[0002] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a magnetic reproduction processing apparatus, a magnetic recording and reproducing apparatus, and a magnetic reproduction method. Background Art

[0003] A magnetic head is used to record information on a magnetic recording medium such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive). In a magnetic recording and reproducing apparatus, it is desired to increase the recording and reproducing density. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Embodiments of the present invention provide a magnetic reproduction processing apparatus, a magnetic recording and reproducing apparatus, and a magnetic reproduction method capable of increasing the recording and reproducing density.

[0005] Means for Solving the Problem

[0006] According to an embodiment, a magnetic reproduction processing apparatus includes an acquisition unit and a processing unit. The acquisition unit can acquire a first electrical signal and a second electrical signal. The first electrical signal is obtained by a first reproduction element reproducing information recorded in a first recording area of a magnetic recording medium, and the second electrical signal is obtained by a second reproduction element reproducing the information recorded in the first recording area. The first sensitivity of the first reproduction element to a magnetic signal recorded in the magnetic recording medium is different from the second sensitivity of the second reproduction element to the magnetic signal. The processing unit can output a reproduction signal corresponding to the information recorded in the first recording area based on the first electrical signal and the second electrical signal acquired by the acquisition unit.

[0007] According to the magnetic reproduction processing apparatus configured as described above, it is possible to provide a magnetic reproduction processing apparatus, a magnetic recording and reproducing apparatus, and a magnetic reproduction method capable of increasing the recording and reproducing density. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a magnetic reproduction processing apparatus according to a first embodiment.

[0009] Figure 2 (a) and Figure 2 (b) are graphs illustrating characteristics related to the magnetic reproduction processing apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0010] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating a magnetic reproduction processing apparatus according to a first embodiment.

[0011] Figure 4 It is a schematic diagram illustrating the magnetic reproduction processing apparatus of the first embodiment.

[0012] Figure 5 It is a schematic diagram illustrating the magnetic reproduction processing apparatus of the first embodiment.

[0013] Figure 6 It is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the magnetic reproduction processing apparatus of the first embodiment.

[0014] Figure 7 It is a graph illustrating the characteristics of the magnetic reproduction processing apparatus of the first embodiment.

[0015] Figure 8 It is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a part of the magnetic recording and reproducing apparatus of the second embodiment.

[0016] Figure 9 It is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a part of the magnetic recording and reproducing apparatus of the second embodiment.

[0017] Figure 10 It is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a part of the magnetic recording and reproducing apparatus of the second embodiment.

[0018] Figure 11 It is a schematic perspective view illustrating a part of the magnetic recording and reproducing apparatus of the embodiment.

[0019] Figure 12 It is a schematic perspective view illustrating the magnetic recording and reproducing apparatus of the embodiment.

[0020] Figure 13 (a) and Figure 13 (b) are schematic perspective views illustrating a part of the magnetic recording and reproducing apparatus of the embodiment.

[0021]

Reference Numeral Explanation

[0022] 10F… Opposite surface of the medium, 10R… Reproduction section, 11, 12… First and second magnetic layers, 11E, 12E… First and second reproduction elements, 11n, 12n… First and second non-magnetic layers, 11o, 12o… First and second opposing magnetic layers, 11p, 12p… Magnetic portions, 11q, 12q… Non-magnetic portions, 15a to 15d… First to fourth reproduction shields, 16a, 16b… First and second magnetic components, 16c, 16d… First and second opposing magnetic components, 19i, 19j, 19k… Insulating components, 20… Magnetic element, 31, 32… First and second magnetic poles, 60… Recording section, 70… Magnetic reproduction processing device, 70s… Reproduction signal, 71a, 71b… First and second waveform equalization sections, 71p, 71q… Signals, 72a, 72b… First and second signal processing sections, 72p, 72q… Processing results, 73a, 73b… First and second target sections, 74… Processing circuit, 74p… Processing result, 75… Processing section, 76… Acquisition section, 78a, 78b… First and second output signals, 79a, 79b… First and second likelihoods, 80… Magnetic recording medium, 80i… Information, 80r… First recording area, 81… Magnetic recording layer, 82… Medium substrate, 83… Magnetization, 85… Medium movement direction, 110… Magnetic head, 150… Magnetic recording and reproduction device, 154… Suspension, 155… Arm, 156… Voice coil motor, 157… Bearing section, 158… Head gimbal assembly, 159… Head slider, 159A… Air inflow side, 159B… Air outflow side, 160… Head stack assembly, 161… Bracket, 162… Coil, 180… Recording medium disk, 180M… Spindle motor, 181… Recording medium, 190… Signal processing section, 210… Magnetic recording and reproduction device, AR… Arrow, CF1 to CF3… First to third reproduction section configurations, L1, L2… First and second lengths, RR1… Sensitivity ratio, SE… Electric signal intensity, SM… Magnetic signal intensity, Se1 to Se5… First to fifth pattern signals, Sr1, Sr2… First and second electric signals, d1, d2… First and second distances, dx… Distance, t1, t2… First and second thicknesses Detailed implementation mode

[0023] (First implementation mode)

[0024] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram showing the magnetic reproduction processing device of the first implementation mode.

[0025] The magnetic reproduction processing device 70 of the implementation mode is used together with the magnetic head 110. The magnetic head 110 includes a reproduction section 10R. The magnetic recording and reproduction device 210 of the implementation mode includes a reproduction section 10R (magnetic head 110) and a magnetic reproduction processing device 70.

[0026] The reproduction unit 10R of the magnetic head 110 reproduces the information 80i recorded on the magnetic recording medium 80. As will be described later, the magnetic recording medium 80 is disk-shaped. The magnetic recording medium 80 includes a recording area (e.g., the first recording area 80r). The recording area may be spiral with the center of the magnetic recording medium as the center.

[0027] 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 (direction of magnetization 83) of the magnetic recording layer 81 corresponds to the information 80i.

[0028] The magnetic head 110 may include a recording unit 60. The magnetization 83 is controlled by the recording unit 60. The recording unit 60 includes, for example, a first magnetic pole 31. The recording magnetic field generated from the first magnetic pole 31 is applied to the magnetic recording medium 80. Thereby, the magnetization 83 is controlled. In this example, the recording unit 60 includes a second magnetic pole 32 and a magnetic element 20. The magnetic element 20 is disposed between a part of the first magnetic pole 31 and a part of the second magnetic pole 32. The first magnetic pole 31 and the second magnetic pole 32 can form a magnetic circuit. The magnetic element 20 includes a magnetic film. In one example, the magnetic element 20 can control the direction of the recording magnetic field from the first magnetic pole 31. In other examples, the magnetic element 20 can generate an alternating magnetic field. The alternating magnetic field is applied to the magnetic recording medium 80. For example, MAMR (Microwave Assisted Magnetic Recording) can be implemented.

[0029] The reproduction unit 10R includes a first reproduction element 11E and a second reproduction element 12E. For example, the first reproduction element 11E is disposed between a first reproduction shield 15a and a second reproduction shield 15b. For example, the second reproduction element 12E is disposed between a third reproduction shield 15c and a fourth reproduction shield 15d. In this example, the second reproduction shield 15b is disposed between the first reproduction shield 15a and the fourth reproduction shield 15d. The third reproduction shield 15c is disposed between the second reproduction shield 15b and the fourth reproduction shield 15d.

[0030] The first direction from the first reproduction element 11E to the second reproduction element 12E is taken as the X-axis direction. One direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction is taken as the Z-axis direction. The direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction and the Z-axis direction is taken as the Y-axis direction.

[0031] The Z-axis direction corresponds to, for example, the height direction. The X-axis direction corresponds to, for example, the direction along the track. The Y-axis direction corresponds to, for example, the direction across the track. The magnetic recording medium 80 and the magnetic head 110 relatively move along the medium moving direction 85, and the medium moving direction 85 is along the direction along the track. Information 80i can be recorded on the magnetic recording medium 80 at a desired position. Information 80i recorded on the magnetic recording medium 80 can be reproduced at a desired position of the magnetic recording medium 80.

[0032] The magnetic head 110 has a medium facing surface 10F. The medium facing surface 10F faces the magnetic recording medium 80. The medium facing surface 10F can be regarded as being included in at least one of the first reproducing element 11E and the second reproducing element 12E. The medium facing surface 10F corresponds to, for example, an ABS (Air Bearing Surface). The medium facing surface 10F is along the X-Y plane, for example.

[0033] The first reproducing element 11E can reproduce information 80i recorded in the first recording area 80r of the magnetic recording medium 80 and output a first electric signal Sr1. The second reproducing element 12E can reproduce information 80i recorded in the first recording area 80r of the magnetic recording medium 80 and output a second electric signal Sr2.

[0034] The magnetic reproduction processing device 70 includes an acquisition unit 76 and a processing unit 75. The acquisition unit 76 can acquire the first electric signal Sr1 and the second electric signal Sr2, where the first electric signal Sr1 is obtained by the first reproducing element 11E reproducing information 80i recorded in the first recording area 80r of the magnetic recording medium 80, and the second electric signal Sr2 is obtained by the second reproducing element 12E reproducing information 80i recorded in the first recording area 80r. The acquisition unit 76 is, for example, an input circuit. The acquisition unit 76 can be an input interface, for example.

[0035] As will be described later, the first sensitivity of the first reproducing element 11E to the magnetic signal (magnetic signal intensity) recorded in the magnetic recording medium 80 is different from the second sensitivity of the second reproducing element 12E to the magnetic signal (magnetic signal intensity).

[0036] The processing unit 75 can output a reproduction signal 70s based on the first electric signal Sr1 and the second electric signal Sr2 acquired by the acquisition unit 76. The reproduction signal 70s is a signal (reproduced information) corresponding to the information 80i recorded in the first recording area 80r.

[0037] In an embodiment, a reproduction signal 70s is derived and output based on electrical signals obtained from a plurality of reproduction elements having different sensitivities from each other. Thereby, higher-precision reproduction can be performed. Magnetic recording and reproduction with a higher track recording density can be implemented. According to the embodiment, a magnetic reproduction processing apparatus capable of increasing the recording and reproduction density can be provided.

[0038] Figure 2 (a) and Figure 2 (b) are diagrams illustrating characteristics related to the magnetic reproduction processing apparatus of the first embodiment.

[0039] Figure 2 (a) corresponds to the first reproduction element 11E. Figure 2 (b) corresponds to the second reproduction element 12E. The horizontal axis of these diagrams corresponds to the magnetic signal intensity SM in the first recording region 80r of the magnetic recording medium 80. The vertical axis of these diagrams corresponds to the electrical signal intensity SE obtained by the magnetic reproduction element. In Figure 2 (a), the electrical signal intensity SE corresponds to the intensity of the first electrical signal Sr1. In Figure 2 (b), the electrical signal intensity SE corresponds to the intensity of the second electrical signal Sr2.

[0040] As Figure 2 (a) shows, when the magnetic signal intensity SM changes, the electrical signal intensity SE changes. In the example of Figure 2 (a), in the electrical signal (first electrical signal Sr1) obtained from the first reproduction element 11E, when the magnetic signal intensity SM changes within a certain range, the electrical signal intensity SE changes substantially linearly.

[0041] For example, the magnetic signal intensity SM includes a 1T pattern strength. The 1T pattern strength corresponds to the minimum recording pattern. The magnetic signal intensity SM includes an nT pattern strength. The nT pattern strength corresponds to n times the minimum recording pattern. "n" is an integer of 3 or more. In one example, n is 12. In this case, the nT pattern strength corresponds to the 12T pattern strength.

[0042] In Figure 2 (a) shown, when the magnetic signal intensity SM changes within the range between the 1T pattern strength and the nT pattern strength, the electrical signal intensity SE (the intensity of the first electrical signal Sr1) changes substantially linearly.

[0043] As Figure 2As shown in Fig. (b), the characteristics of the electric signal intensity SE (intensity of the second electric signal Sr2) obtained from the second reproducing element 12E are different from those of the electric signal intensity SE (intensity of the first electric signal Sr1) obtained from the first reproducing element 11E. In this example, in at least a part of the range of the magnetic signal intensity SM, the rate of change (sensitivity or gradient) of the electric signal intensity SE with respect to the change in the magnetic signal intensity SM is different between the first reproducing element 11E and the second reproducing element 12E.

[0044] For example, as Figure 2 shown in Fig. (a), in the first reproducing element 11E, the electric signal intensity SE (the first electric signal Sr1) includes a first pattern signal Se1 corresponding to the 1T pattern intensity. As Figure 2 shown in Fig. (b), in the second reproducing element 12E, the electric signal intensity SE (the second electric signal Sr2) includes a second pattern signal Se2 corresponding to the 1T pattern intensity. The intensity of the second pattern signal Se2 is higher than the intensity of the first pattern signal Se1. Thus, the sensitivities are different among the plurality of reproducing elements.

[0045] As will be described later, the intensity of the second pattern signal Se2 is preferably 1.1 times or more the intensity of the first pattern signal Se1.

[0046] The electric signal intensity SE (the first electric signal Sr1) of the first reproducing element 11E includes a third pattern signal Se3 corresponding to the nT pattern intensity. The electric signal intensity SE (the second electric signal Sr2) of the second reproducing element 12E includes a fourth pattern signal Se4 corresponding to the nT pattern intensity. The intensity of the fourth pattern signal Se4 is close to the intensity of the third pattern signal Se3. The absolute value of the difference between the intensity of the first pattern signal Se1 and the intensity of the second pattern signal Se2 is larger than the absolute value of the difference between the intensity of the third pattern signal Se3 and the intensity of the fourth pattern signal Se4.

[0047] For example, between the 1T pattern intensity and the nT pattern intensity, the first reproducing element 11E has a linear reproduction characteristic. For example, between the 1T pattern intensity and the nT pattern intensity, the second reproducing element 12E has a non - linear reproduction characteristic.

[0048] For example, between the first pattern signal Se1 and the third pattern signal Se3, the electric signal intensity SE (intensity of the first electric signal Sr1) of the first reproducing element 11E changes substantially linearly with respect to the magnetic signal intensity SM. For example, between the second pattern signal Se2 and the fourth pattern signal Se4, the electric signal intensity SE (intensity of the second electric signal Sr2) of the second reproducing element 12E changes non - linearly with respect to the magnetic signal intensity SM.

[0049] For example, as Figure 2As shown in (b), the magnetic signal intensity SM includes an mT pattern intensity corresponding to m times (where m is n - 1) of the minimum recording pattern. The electric signal intensity SE (the second electric signal Sr2) of the second reproducing element 12E includes a fifth pattern signal Se5 corresponding to the mT pattern intensity. In the region including the fifth pattern signal Se5 and the fourth pattern signal Se4, the electric signal intensity SE is substantially saturated. The absolute value of the difference between the intensity of the fifth pattern signal Se5 and the intensity of the fourth pattern signal Se4 is smaller than the difference in other parts.

[0050] For example, the absolute value of the difference between the intensity of the fifth pattern signal Se5 and the intensity of the fourth pattern signal Se4 (the second absolute value) is smaller than 1 / m of the absolute value of the difference between the intensity of the second pattern signal Se2 and the intensity of the fourth pattern signal Se4 (the first absolute value). For example, the second absolute value may be 0.8 times or less of 1 / m of the first absolute value. The second absolute value may also be 0.5 times or less of 1 / m of the first absolute value.

[0051] A plurality of electric signals obtained from a plurality of reproducing elements having different sensitivities from each other are supplied to the magnetic reproduction processing device 70. Hereinafter, an example of the magnetic reproduction processing device 70 will be described.

[0052] Figure 3 It is a schematic diagram illustrating the magnetic reproduction processing device of the first embodiment.

[0053] As Figure 3 shown, the acquisition unit 76 of the magnetic reproduction processing device 70 acquires the first electric signal Sr1 obtained from the first reproducing element 11E and the second electric signal Sr2 obtained from the second reproducing element 12E.

[0054] The processing unit 75 includes a first waveform equalizer 71a, a second waveform equalizer 71b, a first signal processing unit 72a, a second signal processing unit 72b, and a processing circuit 74.

[0055] The first electric signal Sr1 acquired by the acquisition unit 76 is supplied to the first waveform equalizer 71a. The first waveform equalizer 71a performs waveform processing on the first electric signal Sr1 acquired by the acquisition unit 76. For example, the first target data related to the first reproducing element 11E is supplied from the first target unit 73a to the first waveform equalizer 71a. In the first waveform equalizer 71a, waveform processing is performed based on the first target data.

[0056] Supply the second electrical signal Sr2 obtained by the acquisition unit 76 to the second waveform equalization unit 71b. The second waveform equalization unit 71b performs waveform processing on the second electrical signal Sr2 obtained by the acquisition unit 76. For example, supply the second target data related to the second reproduction element 12E from the second target unit 73b to the second waveform equalization unit 71b. In the second waveform equalization unit 71b, perform waveform processing based on the second target data.

[0057] Supply the signal 71p that has undergone waveform processing in the first waveform equalization unit 71a to the first signal processing unit 72a. The first signal processing unit 72a is, for example, the first decoder. The first signal processing unit 72a processes the signal 71p from the first waveform equalization unit 71a. Output the first output signal 78a (output information) from the first signal processing unit 72a.

[0058] Supply the signal 71q that has undergone waveform processing in the second waveform equalization unit 71b to the second signal processing unit 72b. The second signal processing unit 72b is, for example, the second decoder. The second signal processing unit 72b processes the signal 71q from the second waveform equalization unit 71b. Output the second output signal 78b (output information) from the second signal processing unit 72b.

[0059] The processing circuit 74 can derive the reproduction signal 70s based on the first output signal 78a of the first signal processing unit 72a and the second output signal 78b of the second signal processing unit 72b.

[0060] For example, the first output signal 78a may include the first likelihood 79a related to the signal 71p from the first waveform equalization unit 71a. The second output signal 78b may include the second likelihood 79b related to the signal 71q from the second waveform equalization unit 71b. The processing circuit 74 can derive the reproduction signal 70s based on the first likelihood 79a and the second likelihood 79b.

[0061] For example, the processing circuit 74 may include a neural network (NN) processing unit that takes the first output signal 78a and the second output signal 78b as inputs. The processing circuit 74 may also include a machine learning circuit that takes the first output signal 78a and the second output signal 78b as inputs.

[0062] In one example, the magnetic reproduction processing device 70 can select one of the first output signal 78a corresponding to the first electrical signal Sr1 obtained from the first reproduction element 11E and the second output signal 78b corresponding to the second electrical signal Sr2 obtained from the second reproduction element 12E. The magnetic reproduction processing device 70 can output the signal (information) corresponding to the selected output signal as the reproduction signal 70s.

[0063] In an embodiment, at least one of the first waveform equalization unit 71a and the second waveform equalization unit 71b may include, for example, a PR (Partial-Response) circuit.

[0064] In an embodiment, at least one of the first signal processing unit 72a and the second signal processing unit 72b may also include, for example, a PRML (Partial-Response Maximum-Likelihood) circuit.

[0065] In an embodiment, at least one of the first signal processing unit 72a and the second signal processing unit 72b may further include an LDPC (Low Density Parity Check) decoder.

[0066] Figure 4 FIG. is a schematic diagram illustrating a magnetic reproduction processing apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0067] As Figure 4 shown, in the processing unit 75 of the magnetic reproduction processing apparatus 70, at least a part of the processing result 72p of the first signal processing unit 72a may be supplied to the second signal processing unit 72b. The processing result 72p of the first signal processing unit 72a includes, for example, at least a part of the first output signal 78a. The second signal processing unit 72b can use at least a part of the above-described processing result 72p of the first signal processing unit 72a to process the signal 71q of the second waveform equalization unit 71b.

[0068] At least a part of the processing result 72q of the second signal processing unit 72b may also be supplied to the first signal processing unit 72a. The processing result 72q of the second signal processing unit 72b includes, for example, at least a part of the second output signal 78b. It is possible that the first signal processing unit 72a can use at least a part of the above-described processing result 72q of the second signal processing unit 72b to process the signal 71p of the first waveform equalization unit 71a.

[0069] Figure 5 FIG. is a schematic diagram illustrating a magnetic reproduction processing apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0070] As Figure 5 shown, in the processing unit 75 of the magnetic reproduction processing apparatus 70, at least a part of the processing result 74p of the processing circuit 74 may also be input to the first signal processing unit 72a and the second signal processing unit 72b. The operations of the first signal processing unit 72a, the second signal processing unit 72b, and the processing circuit 74 may be repeatedly performed. For example, processing of an iterative loop may be performed.

[0071] Figure 6 It is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the magnetic reproduction processing apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0072] Figure 6 Illustrates the operation of the magnetic reproduction processing apparatus 70. As Figure 6 shown, the magnetic reproduction processing apparatus 70 acquires a first electric signal Sr1 and a second electric signal Sr2 (step S11 and step S12). The magnetic reproduction processing apparatus 70 performs waveform processing (waveform equalization processing) on the first electric signal Sr1 and performs waveform processing (waveform equalization processing) on the second electric signal Sr2 (step S21 and step S22).

[0073] The magnetic reproduction processing apparatus 70 demodulates the first electric signal Sr1 based on the result of the waveform equalization processing (step S31) and demodulates the second electric signal Sr2 (step S32). In the demodulation, likelihoods (a first likelihood 79a and a second likelihood 79b) can be derived. At least a part of the result of step S31 can be used in step S32. At least a part of the result of step S32 can be used in step S31.

[0074] The magnetic reproduction processing apparatus 70 performs demodulation based on the demodulation result and the likelihoods (the first likelihood 79a and the second likelihood 79b) (step S34). Step S34 and step S31 can be repeatedly performed. Step S34 and step S32 can be repeatedly performed.

[0075] The magnetic reproduction processing apparatus 70 outputs a reproduction signal 70s corresponding to the result of the demodulation (step S35).

[0076] In the embodiment, based on electric signals obtained from a plurality of reproduction elements having different sensitivities, a reproduction signal 70s is derived and output. Thereby, errors can be further suppressed. Higher-precision reproduction can be performed. For example, compared with the case of reproducing based on electric signals obtained from a plurality of reproduction elements having the same sensitivity, higher-precision reproduction can be performed. Magnetic recording and reproduction with a higher linear recording density can be implemented. A magnetic reproduction processing apparatus capable of increasing the recording and reproduction density can be provided.

[0077] Figure 7 It is a chart illustrating the characteristics of the magnetic reproduction processing apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0078] Figure 7 The horizontal axis of is the sensitivity ratio RR1. The sensitivity ratio RR1 is the ratio of the intensity of the second pattern signal Se2 to the intensity of the first pattern signal Se1 (refer to Figure 2 (a) and Figure 2(b)). The first pattern signal Se1 is a signal corresponding to the 1T pattern intensity in the first electrical signal Sr1 of the first reproduction element 11E. The second pattern signal Se2 is a signal corresponding to the 1T pattern intensity in the second electrical signal Sr2 of the second reproduction element 12E. Figure 7 The vertical axis of is the BER (bit error rate).

[0079] As Figure 7 shown, if the sensitivity ratio RR1 is lower, the BER is higher. When the sensitivity ratio RR1 exceeds 1, a low BER is obtained. When the sensitivity ratio RR1 is 1.1 or more, an extremely low BER is obtained.

[0080] In the embodiment, the sensitivity ratio RR1 is preferably 1.1 or more. For example, the intensity of the second pattern signal Se2 is preferably 1.1 times or more the intensity of the first pattern signal Se1. Thereby, an extremely low BER is obtained. Higher-precision reproduction can be performed.

[0081] (Second Embodiment)

[0082] The second embodiment relates to a magnetic recording and reproducing apparatus 210 (see, for example, Figure 1 ). The magnetic recording and reproducing apparatus 210 includes the magnetic reproduction processing apparatus 70 and the magnetic head 110 of the embodiment. The magnetic head 110 includes a reproduction unit 10R (the first reproduction element 11E and the second reproduction element 12E). Hereinafter, an example of the configuration of a plurality of reproduction elements will be described. For example, a sensitivity difference can be formed due to a difference in configuration.

[0083] Figures 8 - 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a part of the magnetic recording and reproducing apparatus of the second embodiment.

[0084] Figures 8 - 10 Examples of the first to third reproduction unit configurations CF1 to CF3 related to the reproduction unit 10R are illustrated. As already described, the first reproduction element 11E includes a medium facing surface 10F facing the magnetic recording medium 80 (see Figure 1 ). The first direction from the first reproduction element 11E to the second reproduction element 12E is along the track direction (for example, the X-axis direction) of the magnetic recording medium 80.

[0085] As Figure 8 shown, in the first reproduction unit configuration CF1, the first reproduction element 11E includes a first magnetic layer 11, a first opposing magnetic layer 11o, and a first non-magnetic layer 11n. The first non-magnetic layer 11n is disposed between the first magnetic layer 11 and the first opposing magnetic layer 11o in the first direction.

[0086] The second reproducing element 12E includes a second magnetic layer 12, a second opposing magnetic layer 12o, and a second non-magnetic layer 12n. The second non-magnetic layer 12n is disposed between the second magnetic layer 12 and the second opposing magnetic layer 12o in the first direction.

[0087] In this example, the first reproducing element 11E is located between the first reproducing shield 15a and the second reproducing shield 15b. The second reproducing element 12E is located between the third reproducing shield 15c and the fourth reproducing shield 15d. The direction from the first reproducing shield 15a to the second reproducing shield 15b is along the first direction (e.g., the X-axis direction).

[0088] In this example, a magnetic portion 11p is provided between the first reproducing shield 15a and the first magnetic layer 11. A non-magnetic portion 11q is provided between the first opposing magnetic layer 11o and the second reproducing shield 15b. In this example, a magnetic portion 12p is provided between the third reproducing shield 15c and the second magnetic layer 12. A non-magnetic portion 12q is provided between the second opposing magnetic layer 12o and the fourth reproducing shield 15d. The magnetic portion 11p and the magnetic portion 12p include, for example, at least one selected from the group consisting of IrMn and PtMn. The magnetic portion 11p and the magnetic portion 12p are, for example, antiferromagnetic layers. For example, the magnetization of the first magnetic layer 11 is stabilized by the magnetic portion 11p. For example, the magnetization of the second magnetic layer 12 is stabilized by the magnetic portion 12p.

[0089] The non-magnetic portion 11q and the non-magnetic portion 12q include, for example, at least one selected from the group consisting of Ta, Ru, Cu, and C. By providing the non-magnetic portion 11q, for example, the magnetization of the first opposing magnetic layer 11o is liable to change. By providing the non-magnetic portion 12q, for example, the magnetization of the second opposing magnetic layer 12o is liable to change. The non-magnetic portion 11q may be included in the first reproducing element 11E. The non-magnetic portion 12q may be included in the second reproducing element 12E.

[0090] For example, the first opposing magnetic layer 11o and the second opposing magnetic layer 12o are magnetization free layers. The first magnetic layer 11 and the second magnetic layer 12 are reference layers.

[0091] The resistance between the first magnetic layer 11 and the first opposing magnetic layer 11o changes in accordance with the magnetization 83 of the magnetic recording medium 80. This is because, for example, the magnetization of the first opposing magnetic layer 11o changes in accordance with the magnetization 83 of the magnetic recording medium 80.

[0092] The resistance between the second magnetic layer 12 and the second opposing magnetic layer 12o changes in accordance with the magnetization 83 of the magnetic recording medium 80. This is because, for example, the magnetization of the second opposing magnetic layer 12o changes in accordance with the magnetization 83 of the magnetic recording medium 80.

[0093] AsFigure 8 As shown, the thickness of the first opposing magnetic layer 11o in the first direction is defined as the first thickness t1. The thickness of the second opposing magnetic layer 12o in the first direction is defined as the second thickness t2. In the first reproduction unit configuration CF1, the first thickness t1 is different from the second thickness t2. For example, the first thickness t1 is thicker than the second thickness t2. By such a thickness difference, a sensitivity difference is obtained between the first reproduction element 11E and the second reproduction element 12E.

[0094] In the embodiment, the first thickness t1 is 1.2 times or more and 3.0 times or less of the second thickness t2. The first thickness t1 is, for example, 5 nm or more and 15 nm or less. The second thickness t2 is, for example, 2 nm or more and 10 nm or less.

[0095] As Figure 8 shown, the distance in the first direction (X-axis direction) between the first reproduction element 11E and the second reproduction element 12E is defined as the distance dx. The distance dx is, for example, preferably 50 μm or more and 200 μm or less. A stable reproduction signal can be easily obtained. The distance dx is preferably short.

[0096] The reproduction unit 10R may include an insulating member 19k. At least a part of the insulating member 19k is located between the first reproduction element 11E and the second reproduction element 12E. In this example, at least a part of the insulating member 19k is located between the second reproduction shield 15b and the third reproduction shield 15c.

[0097] As Figure 8 shown, the reproduction unit 10R may include a first magnetic member 16a and a first opposing magnetic member 16c. In the Y-axis direction, the first reproduction element 11E is provided between the first magnetic member 16a and the first opposing magnetic member 16c. The reproduction unit 10R may include a second magnetic member 16b and a second opposing magnetic member 16d. In the Y-axis direction, the second reproduction element 12E is provided between the second magnetic member 16b and the second opposing magnetic member 16d. The first magnetic member 16a, the first opposing magnetic member 16c, the second magnetic member 16b, and the second opposing magnetic member 16d function as bias layers, for example. By providing these magnetic members, the magnetization of the magnetic layers included in the first reproduction element 11E and the second reproduction element 12E is stabilized.

[0098] The reproduction unit 10R may include an insulating member 19i and an insulating member 19j. At least a part of the insulating member 19i is provided between the first reproduction element 11E and the first magnetic member 16a, and between the first reproduction element 11E and the first opposing magnetic member 16c. At least a part of the insulating member 19j is provided between the second reproduction element 12E and the second magnetic member 16b, and between the second reproduction element 12E and the second opposing magnetic member 16d.

[0099] At least any one of the insulating members 19k, 19i, and 19j includes, for example, at least one selected from the group consisting of Si, Al, Zr, and Hf, and at least one selected from the group consisting of oxygen and nitrogen.

[0100] As Figure 9 As shown, in the second reproduction unit configuration CF2, the length of the first opposing magnetic layer 11o along the second direction is defined as the first length L1. The second direction intersects the medium opposing surface 10F. The second direction is, for example, the Z-axis direction. The length of the second opposing magnetic layer 12o along the second direction is defined as the second length L2. For example, the first length L1 is longer than the second length L2. By such a difference in length, a difference in sensitivity is obtained between the first reproduction element 11E and the second reproduction element 12E.

[0101] In the embodiment, the first length L1 is 1.1 times or more and 2.0 times or less the second length L2. The first length L1 is, for example, 20 nm or more and 40 nm or less. The second length L2 is, for example, 15 nm or more and 30 nm or less.

[0102] As Figure 10 As shown, similarly in the third reproduction unit configuration CF3, the reproduction unit 10R includes the first magnetic member 16a and the second magnetic member 16b. The reproduction unit 10R may include the first opposing magnetic member 16c and the second opposing magnetic member 16d. The first reproduction element 11E includes the medium opposing surface 10F. Also in this case, the first direction from the first reproduction element 11E to the second reproduction element 12E is along the X-axis direction (the track direction of the magnetic recording medium 80).

[0103] The direction from the first opposing magnetic layer 11o to the first magnetic member 16a is along the third direction. The third direction is along the medium opposing surface 10F (the direction along the X-Y plane) and intersects the first direction (the X-axis direction). The third direction is, for example, the Y-axis direction. The direction from the second opposing magnetic layer 12o to the second magnetic member 16b is along the third direction.

[0104] The distance in the third direction between the first opposing magnetic layer 11o and the first magnetic member 16a is defined as the first distance d1. The distance in the third direction between the second opposing magnetic layer 12o and the second magnetic member 16b is defined as the second distance d2. The first distance d1 is different from the second distance d2. For example, the first distance d1 is shorter than the second distance d2. By such a difference in distances, a difference in sensitivity is obtained between the first reproducing element 11E and the second reproducing element 12E. The configuration of the first opposing magnetic member 16c can be, for example, symmetric with respect to the configuration of the first magnetic member 16a. The configuration of the second opposing magnetic member 16d can be, for example, symmetric with respect to the configuration of the second magnetic member 16b.

[0105] In an embodiment, two or more of the first to third reproducing unit configurations CF1 to CF3 can be combined and provided.

[0106] At least one of the first magnetic layer 11 and the second magnetic layer 12 includes at least one selected from the group consisting of Fe, Co, and Ni. At least one of the first opposing magnetic layer 11o and the second opposing magnetic layer 12o includes at least one selected from the group consisting of Fe, Co, and Ni. At least one of the first non-magnetic layer 11n and the second non-magnetic layer 12n includes a metal oxide (such as MgO, etc.). At least one of the first magnetic member 16a, the first opposing magnetic member 16c, the second opposing magnetic member 16b, and the second opposing magnetic member 16d includes at least one selected from the group consisting of Fe, Co, and Ni.

[0107] (Third Embodiment)

[0108] The third embodiment relates to a magnetic reproduction method. The magnetic reproduction method includes obtaining a first electric signal Sr1 and a second electric signal Sr2 (for example, step S11 and step S12), where the first electric signal Sr1 is obtained by the first reproducing element 11E reproducing the information 80i recorded in the first recording area 80r of the magnetic recording medium 80, and the second electric signal Sr2 is obtained by the second reproducing element 12E reproducing the information 80i recorded in the first recording area 80r. As described in Figure 2 (a) and Figure 2 (b), the first sensitivity of the first reproducing element 11E to the magnetic signal (magnetic signal intensity SM) recorded in the magnetic recording medium 80 is different from the second sensitivity of the second reproducing element 12E to the magnetic signal (magnetic signal intensity SM).

[0109] The magnetic reproduction method includes outputting a reproduction signal 70s corresponding to the information 80i recorded in the first recording area 80r based on the obtained first electric signal Sr1 and second electric signal Sr2 (for example, step S35).

[0110] According to the magnetic reproduction method of the embodiment, for example, errors can be further suppressed. Higher-precision reproduction can be performed. Magnetic recording and reproduction with a higher track recording density can be implemented. According to the embodiment, a magnetic reproduction processing method capable of increasing the recording and reproduction density can be provided.

[0111] In the embodiment, for example, multiple reproduction elements with different output characteristics are used for reproduction. In at least one of the multiple reproduction elements, for example, not all decoding may be performed. Information related to the likelihood of the multiple reproduction elements is utilized. Thus, decoding is performed by the multiple reproduction elements.

[0112] Generally, in a reproduction element, a linearity including a long-period magnetic pattern (nT pattern) is applied. For example, the output characteristics of the reproduction element are designed to obtain linear characteristics between the 1T pattern and the 12T pattern.

[0113] In the embodiment, the output characteristics of one of the multiple reproduction elements are designed to have high sensitivity for short-period patterns close to the 1T pattern. In fact, the generation frequency of short-period patterns close to the 1T pattern is higher than that of long-period magnetic patterns. On the other hand, the generation probability of reproduction errors generated in short-period patterns close to the 1T pattern is higher than that of reproduction errors generated in long-period magnetic patterns.

[0114] In the embodiment, the sensitivity of one of the multiple reproduction elements is set to be higher in short-period patterns with a high generation frequency and a high probability of reproduction errors. Thus, reproduction errors can be suppressed throughout the reproduction operation.

[0115] Hereinafter, an example of a magnetic recording and reproducing apparatus will be described.

[0116] Figure 11 It is a schematic perspective view showing a part of the magnetic recording and reproducing apparatus of the embodiment.

[0117] Figure 11 A head slider is illustrated.

[0118] The magnetic head 110 is provided on the head slider 159. The head slider 159 includes, for example, Al2O3 / TiC, etc. The head slider 159 moves relative to the magnetic recording medium while floating or contacting the magnetic recording medium.

[0119] 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 surface of the air outflow side 159B of the head slider 159, etc. Thus, the magnetic head 110 moves relative to the magnetic recording medium while floating or contacting the magnetic recording medium.

[0120] Figure 12 It is a schematic perspective view showing the magnetic recording and reproducing apparatus of the embodiment.

[0121] As Figure 12 shown, in the magnetic recording and reproducing apparatus 150 of the embodiment, a rotary actuator is employed. The recording medium disk 180 is mounted on the spindle motor 180M. The recording medium disk 180 rotates in the direction of arrow AR by the spindle motor 180M. The spindle motor 180M responds to a control signal from the drive device control unit. The magnetic recording and reproducing apparatus 150 of the present embodiment may have a plurality of recording medium disks 180. The magnetic recording and reproducing apparatus 150 may include a recording medium 181. The recording medium 181 is, for example, an SSD (Solid State Drive). The recording medium 181 employs a non-volatile memory such as a flash memory, for example. For example, the magnetic recording apparatus 150 may be a hybrid HDD (Hard Disk Drive).

[0122] The head slider 159 performs recording and reproduction of information recorded on the recording medium disk 180. The head slider 159 is provided at the tip of the thin-film suspension 154. A magnetic head of the embodiment is provided near the tip of the head slider 159.

[0123] When the recording medium disk 180 rotates, the pressing force generated by the suspension 154 and the pressure generated on the medium facing surface (ABS) of the head slider 159 are balanced. The distance between the medium facing surface of the head slider 159 and the surface of the recording medium disk 180 becomes a predetermined floating amount. In the embodiment, the head slider 159 may also be in contact with the recording medium disk 180. For example, a contact advancing type may be applied.

[0124] The suspension 154 is connected to one end of the arm 155 (for example, the actuator arm). The arm 155 has, for example, a bobbin portion. The bobbin portion holds the 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 a relative yoke. The drive coil is provided between the permanent magnet and the relative 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.

[0125] The arm 155 is held by ball bearings. The ball bearings are provided at two upper and lower positions of the bearing portion 157. The arm 155 can rotate and slide by the voice coil motor 156. The magnetic head can move to any position on the recording medium disk 180.

[0126] Figure 13 (a) and Figure 13 (b) are schematic perspective views illustrating a part of the magnetic recording and reproducing apparatus of the embodiment.

[0127] Figure 13 (a) illustrates a part of a magnetic recording and reproducing apparatus. Figure 13 (a) is an enlarged perspective view of a head stack assembly 160.

[0128] Figure 13 (b) illustrates a magnetic head assembly (head gimbal assembly: HGA) 158 that is part of the head stack assembly 160.

[0129] As Figure 13 As shown in (a), the head stack assembly 160 includes a bearing portion 157, a head gimbal assembly 158, and a bracket 161. The head gimbal assembly 158 extends from the bearing portion 157. The bracket 161 extends from the bearing portion 157. The direction in which the bracket 161 extends is opposite to the direction in which the head gimbal assembly 158 extends. The bracket 161 supports the coil 162 of the voice coil motor 156.

[0130] As Figure 13 As shown in (b), the head gimbal assembly 158 has an arm 155 that extends from the bearing portion 157 and a suspension 154 that extends from the arm 155.

[0131] A head slider 159 is provided at the tip of the suspension 154. A magnetic head of the embodiment is provided on the head slider 159.

[0132] The magnetic head assembly (head gimbal assembly) 158 of the embodiment includes the magnetic head of 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.

[0133] The suspension 154 has, for example, wires (not shown) for recording and reproducing signals. The suspension 154 can have, for example, wires (not shown) for a heater for flying height adjustment. The suspension 154 can also have, for example, wires (not shown) for a spin transfer torque oscillator or the like. These wires are electrically connected to a plurality of electrodes provided on the magnetic head.

[0134] In the magnetic recording apparatus 150, a signal processing unit 190 is provided. The signal processing unit 190 uses the magnetic head to record and reproduce signals on a magnetic recording medium. The input / output lines of the signal processing unit 190 are connected to, for example, the electrode pads of the head gimbal assembly 158 and are electrically connected to the magnetic head.

[0135] The magnetic recording apparatus 150 of the embodiment includes a magnetic recording medium, the magnetic head of the embodiment, a movable part, a position control part, and a signal processing part. The movable part can move relative to the magnetic recording medium and the magnetic head in a state where they are separated or in contact. The position control part positions the magnetic head at a predetermined recording position on the magnetic recording medium. The signal processing part performs recording and reproduction of signals on the magnetic recording medium using the magnetic head.

[0136] For example, as the above-described magnetic recording medium, a recording medium disk 180 is employed. The movable part described above includes, for example, a head slider 159. The position control part described above includes, for example, a head gimbal assembly 158.

[0137] The embodiment may include the following technical solutions.

[0138] (Technical solution 1)

[0139] A magnetic reproduction processing device having:

[0140] An acquisition unit that can acquire a first electrical signal and a second electrical signal. The first electrical signal is obtained by a first reproduction element reproducing information recorded in a first recording area of a magnetic recording medium, and the second electrical signal is obtained by a second reproduction element reproducing the information recorded in the first recording area. The first sensitivity of the first reproduction element to the magnetic signal recorded in the magnetic recording medium is different from the second sensitivity of the second reproduction element to the magnetic signal; and

[0141] A processing unit that can output a reproduction signal corresponding to the information recorded in the first recording area based on the first electrical signal and the second electrical signal acquired by the acquisition unit.

[0142] (Technical solution 2)

[0143] The magnetic reproduction processing device according to Technical solution 1,

[0144] The magnetic signal intensity of the first recording area includes a 1T pattern intensity corresponding to a minimum recording pattern;

[0145] The first electrical signal includes a first pattern signal corresponding to the 1T pattern intensity;

[0146] The second electrical signal includes a second pattern signal corresponding to the 1T pattern intensity;

[0147] The intensity of the second pattern signal is higher than the intensity of the first pattern signal.

[0148] (Technical solution 3)

[0149] The magnetic reproduction processing device according to Technical solution 2,

[0150] The intensity of the second pattern signal is 1.1 times or more the intensity of the first pattern signal.

[0151] (Technical solution 4)

[0152] The magnetic reproduction processing device according to Technical solution 1 or 2,

[0153] The magnetic signal intensity includes an nT pattern intensity corresponding to n times the minimum recording pattern, where n is an integer of 3 or more;

[0154] The first electrical signal includes a third pattern signal corresponding to the nT pattern intensity;

[0155] The second electrical signal includes a fourth pattern signal corresponding to the nT pattern intensity;

[0156] The absolute value of the difference between the intensity of the first pattern signal and the intensity of the second pattern signal is greater than the absolute value of the difference between the intensity of the third pattern signal and the intensity of the fourth pattern signal.

[0157] (Technical solution 5)

[0158] The magnetic reproduction processing device according to Technical solution 4,

[0159] Between the first pattern signal and the third pattern signal, the intensity of the first electrical signal changes substantially linearly with respect to the magnetic signal intensity.

[0160] (Technical solution 6)

[0161] The magnetic reproduction processing device according to Technical solution 4 or 5,

[0162] The magnetic signal intensity includes an mT pattern intensity corresponding to m times the minimum recording pattern, where m is n - 1;

[0163] The second electrical signal includes a fifth pattern signal corresponding to the mT pattern intensity;

[0164] The absolute value of the difference between the intensity of the fifth pattern signal and the intensity of the fourth pattern signal is less than 1 / m of the absolute value of the difference between the intensity of the second pattern signal and the intensity of the fourth pattern signal.

[0165] (Technical solution 7)

[0166] The magnetic reproduction processing device according to any one of Technical solutions 1 to 6,

[0167] The processing unit includes:

[0168] A first waveform equalization unit that performs waveform processing on the first electrical signal acquired by the acquisition unit;

[0169] A second waveform equalization unit that performs waveform processing on the second electrical signal acquired by the acquisition unit;

[0170] A first signal processing unit that processes the signal from the first waveform equalization unit;

[0171] A second signal processing unit that processes the signal from the second waveform equalization unit; and

[0172] A processing circuit that can derive the reproduction signal based on the first output signal of the first signal processing unit and the second output signal of the second signal processing unit.

[0173] (Technical solution 8)

[0174] The magnetic reproduction processing device according to Technical solution 7,

[0175] The first output signal includes a first likelihood related to the signal from the first waveform equalization unit;

[0176] The second output signal includes a second likelihood related to the signal from the second waveform equalization unit.

[0177] (Technical solution 9)

[0178] The magnetic reproduction processing device according to Technical solution 7 or 8,

[0179] The processing circuit includes a neural network processing unit that takes the first output signal and the second output signal as inputs.

[0180] (Technical solution 10)

[0181] The magnetic reproduction processing device according to any one of Technical solutions 7 to 9,

[0182] At least a part of the processing result of the processing circuit is input to the first signal processing unit and the second signal processing unit;

[0183] The operations of the first signal processing unit, the second signal processing unit, and the processing circuit are repeatedly performed.

[0184] (Technical solution 11)

[0185] The magnetic reproduction processing device according to any one of Technical solutions 7 to 10,

[0186] At least a part of the processing result of the first signal processing unit is supplied to the second signal processing unit;

[0187] The second signal processing unit can use at least a part of the processing result of the first signal processing unit to process the signal of the second waveform equalization unit.

[0188] (Technical solution 12)

[0189] The magnetic reproduction processing device according to any one of Technical solutions 7 to 11,

[0190] At least a part of the processing result of the second signal processing unit is supplied to the first signal processing unit;

[0191] The first signal processing unit can use at least a part of the processing result of the second signal processing unit to process the signal of the first waveform equalization unit.

[0192] (Technical solution 13)

[0193] The magnetic reproduction processing device according to any one of technical solutions 7 to 12,

[0194] At least one of the first waveform equalization unit and the second waveform equalization unit includes a PR (Partial-Response) circuit.

[0195] (Technical solution 14)

[0196] The magnetic reproduction processing device according to any one of technical solutions 7 to 13,

[0197] At least one of the first signal processing unit and the second signal processing unit includes a PRML (Partial-Response Maximum-Likelihood) circuit.

[0198] (Technical solution 15)

[0199] The magnetic reproduction processing device according to any one of technical solutions 7 to 14,

[0200] At least one of the first signal processing unit and the second signal processing unit includes an LDPC (LowDensity Parity Check) decoder.

[0201] (Technical solution 16)

[0202] A magnetic recording and reproducing device, comprising:

[0203] The magnetic reproduction processing device according to any one of technical solutions 1 to 15; and

[0204] A magnetic head including a reproduction unit, the reproduction unit including the first reproduction element and the second reproduction element.

[0205] (Technical solution 17)

[0206] The magnetic recording and reproducing device according to technical solution 16,

[0207] The first direction from the first reproduction element to the second reproduction element is along the track direction of the magnetic recording medium;

[0208] The first reproduction element includes a first magnetic layer, a first opposing magnetic layer, and a first non-magnetic layer disposed between the first magnetic layer and the first opposing magnetic layer in the first direction;

[0209] The second reproduction element includes a second magnetic layer, a second opposing magnetic layer, and a second non-magnetic layer disposed between the second magnetic layer and the second opposing magnetic layer in the first direction;

[0210] A first thickness of the first opposing magnetic layer along the first direction is different from a second thickness of the second opposing magnetic layer along the first direction.

[0211] (Technical solution 18)

[0212] The magnetic recording and reproducing apparatus according to Technical solution 16,

[0213] The first reproduction element includes a medium-facing surface facing the magnetic recording medium;

[0214] The first direction from the first reproduction element to the second reproduction element is along the track direction of the magnetic recording medium;

[0215] The first reproduction element includes a first magnetic layer, a first opposing magnetic layer, and a first non-magnetic layer disposed between the first magnetic layer and the first opposing magnetic layer in the first direction;

[0216] The second reproduction element includes a second magnetic layer, a second opposing magnetic layer, and a second non-magnetic layer disposed between the second magnetic layer and the second opposing magnetic layer in the first direction;

[0217] A first length of the first opposing magnetic layer along a second direction is different from a second length of the second opposing magnetic layer along the second direction, and the second direction intersects the medium-facing surface.

[0218] (Technical solution 19)

[0219] The magnetic recording and reproducing apparatus according to Technical solution 16,

[0220] The reproducing unit includes a first magnetic member and a second magnetic member;

[0221] The first reproduction element includes a medium-facing surface facing the magnetic recording medium;

[0222] The first direction from the first reproduction element to the second reproduction element is along the track direction of the magnetic recording medium;

[0223] The first reproduction element includes a first magnetic layer, a first opposing magnetic layer, and a first non-magnetic layer disposed between the first magnetic layer and the first opposing magnetic layer in the first direction;

[0224] The second reproduction element includes a second magnetic layer, a second opposing magnetic layer, and a second non-magnetic layer disposed between the second magnetic layer and the second opposing magnetic layer in the first direction;

[0225] From the first opposing magnetic layer towards the first magnetic member is along a third direction;

[0226] From the second opposing magnetic layer towards the second magnetic member is along the third direction;

[0227] The third direction is along the medium opposing surface and intersects the first direction;

[0228] A first distance along the third direction between the first opposing magnetic layer and the first magnetic member is different from a second distance along the third direction between the second opposing magnetic layer and the second magnetic member.

[0229] (Technical solution 20)

[0230] A magnetic reproduction method,

[0231] Obtain a first electrical signal and a second electrical signal. The first electrical signal is obtained by the first reproduction element reproducing information recorded in a first recording area of a magnetic recording medium, and the second electrical signal is obtained by the second reproduction element reproducing the information recorded in the first recording area. The first sensitivity of the first reproduction element to the magnetic signal recorded in the magnetic recording medium is different from the second sensitivity of the second reproduction element to the magnetic signal;

[0232] Output a reproduction signal corresponding to the information recorded in the first recording area based on the obtained first electrical signal and second electrical signal.

[0233] According to the embodiment, a magnetic reproduction processing device, a magnetic recording and reproduction device, and a magnetic reproduction method capable of improving the recording and reproduction density can be provided.

[0234] In the specification of the present application, "vertical" and "parallel" not only refer to strict vertical and strict parallel, but also include, for example, deviations in the manufacturing process, as long as they are substantially vertical and substantially parallel.

[0235] As described above, the embodiments of the present invention have been explained with reference to specific examples. However, the present invention is not limited to these specific examples. For example, regarding the specific technical solutions of each element such as the acquisition unit and the processing unit included in the magnetic reproduction processing device, and the magnetic head, reproduction unit, reproduction element, magnetic layer, non-magnetic layer, and recording unit included in the magnetic recording and reproduction device, as long as those skilled in the art can implement the present invention in the same manner by appropriately selecting from the known range and obtain the same effects, they are also included in the scope of the present invention.

[0236] A configuration formed by combining any two or more elements of each specific example within the technically possible range, as long as it includes the gist of the present invention, is also included in the scope of the present invention.

[0237] In addition, as embodiments of the present invention, based on the above magnetic reproduction processing device, magnetic recording and reproduction device, and magnetic reproduction method, all magnetic reproduction processing devices, magnetic recording and reproduction devices, and magnetic reproduction methods that those skilled in the art can implement by appropriately designing and changing, as long as they include the gist of the present invention, also belong to the scope of the present invention.

[0238] In addition, it should be understood that within the scope of the idea of the present invention, those skilled in the art can conceive of various modification examples and correction examples, and it should be understood that these modification examples and correction examples also belong to the scope of the present invention.

[0239] Several embodiments of the present invention have been described, but these embodiments are merely presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These new embodiments can be implemented in various other ways, and various omissions, substitutions, and changes can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are included in the invention described in the claims and its equivalents.

Claims

1. A magnetic reproduction processing apparatus, comprising: An acquisition unit that can acquire a first electrical signal and a second electrical signal. The first electrical signal is obtained by a first reproduction element reproducing information recorded in a first recording area of a magnetic recording medium, and the second electrical signal is obtained by a second reproduction element reproducing the information recorded in the first recording area. The first sensitivity of the first reproduction element to the magnetic signal recorded in the magnetic recording medium is different from the second sensitivity of the second reproduction element to the magnetic signal; and A processing unit that can output a reproduction signal corresponding to the information recorded in the first recording area based on the first electrical signal and the second electrical signal acquired by the acquisition unit, The magnetic signal intensity of the first recording area includes a 1T pattern intensity corresponding to a minimum recording pattern; The first electrical signal includes a first pattern signal corresponding to the 1T pattern intensity; The second electrical signal includes a second pattern signal corresponding to the 1T pattern intensity; The intensity of the second pattern signal is higher than the intensity of the first pattern signal.

2. The magnetic reproduction processing apparatus according to claim 1, The magnetic signal intensity includes an nT pattern intensity corresponding to n times the minimum recording pattern, where n is an integer of 3 or more; The first electrical signal includes a third pattern signal corresponding to the nT pattern intensity; The second electrical signal includes a fourth pattern signal corresponding to the nT pattern intensity; The absolute value of the difference between the intensity of the first pattern signal and the intensity of the second pattern signal is larger than the absolute value of the difference between the intensity of the third pattern signal and the intensity of the fourth pattern signal.

3. The magnetic reproduction processing apparatus according to claim 1, The processing unit includes: A first waveform equalization unit that performs waveform processing on the first electrical signal acquired by the acquisition unit; A second waveform equalization unit that performs waveform processing on the second electrical signal acquired by the acquisition unit; A first signal processing unit that processes the signal from the first waveform equalization unit; A second signal processing unit that processes the signal from the second waveform equalization unit; And A processing circuit that can derive the reproduction signal based on the first output signal of the first signal processing unit and the second output signal of the second signal processing unit.

4. The magnetic reproduction processing apparatus according to claim 3, The first output signal includes a first likelihood related to the signal from the first waveform equalization unit; The second output signal includes a second likelihood related to the signal from the second waveform equalization unit.

5. The magnetic reproduction processing apparatus according to claim 3, At least a part of the processing result of the processing circuit is input to the first signal processing unit and the second signal processing unit; The operations of the first signal processing unit, the second signal processing unit, and the processing circuit are repeatedly performed.

6. The magnetic reproduction processing apparatus according to claim 3, At least a part of the processing result of the first signal processing unit is supplied to the second signal processing unit; The second signal processing unit can use at least a part of the processing result of the first signal processing unit to process the signal of the second waveform equalization unit.

7. The magnetic reproduction processing apparatus according to claim 3, At least a part of the processing result of the second signal processing unit is supplied to the first signal processing unit; The first signal processing unit can use at least a part of the processing result of the second signal processing unit to process the signal of the first waveform equalization unit.

8. A magnetic recording and reproducing apparatus, comprising: The magnetic reproduction processing apparatus according to claim 1; and A magnetic head including a reproducing unit, the reproducing unit including the first reproducing element and the second reproducing element.

9. A magnetic reproduction method, Obtaining a first electrical signal and a second electrical signal, the first electrical signal being obtained by the first reproducing element reproducing information recorded in a first recording area of a magnetic recording medium, the second electrical signal being obtained by the second reproducing element reproducing the information recorded in the first recording area, a first sensitivity of the first reproducing element to a magnetic signal recorded in the magnetic recording medium being different from a second sensitivity of the second reproducing element to the magnetic signal; Outputting a reproduction signal corresponding to the information recorded in the first recording area based on the obtained first electrical signal and the second electrical signal, The magnetic signal intensity of the first recording area includes a 1T pattern intensity corresponding to a minimum recording pattern; The first electrical signal includes a first pattern signal corresponding to the 1T pattern intensity; The second electrical signal includes a second pattern signal corresponding to the 1T pattern intensity; The intensity of the second pattern signal is higher than the intensity of the first pattern signal.

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