Magnetic head and magnetic recording apparatus

Abstract

The invention provides a magnetic head capable of improving characteristics and a magnetic recording apparatus. According to an embodiment, a magnetic head includes a reproduction section including a medium facing surface. The reproduction unit includes a first magnetic element. The first magnetic element includes a first magnetic layer, a second magnetic layer, and a third magnetic layer. The first magnetic layer is provided between the third magnetic layer and the second magnetic layer in a first direction along the medium facing surface. The first magnetic layer magnetization of the first magnetic layer includes a first component along a second direction intersecting the medium facing surface. Second magnetic layer magnetization of the second magnetic layer includes a second component along the second direction. The orientation of the second component is opposite to the orientation of the first component. A third magnetic layer magnetization of the third magnetic layer includes a third component along a third direction intersecting a plane including the first direction and the second direction.

Description

[0001] This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-000345 (filing date: January 4, 2024) and claims priority therefrom. This application incorporates the entire contents of that application by reference thereto. Technical Field

[0002] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a magnetic head and a magnetic recording device. Background Art

[0003] Information recorded on a magnetic recording medium such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) is reproduced using a magnetic head, and the magnetic head includes a magnetic sensor using a magnetic layer. In the magnetic head, improvement in characteristics is desired. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Embodiments of the present invention provide a magnetic head and a magnetic recording device capable of improving characteristics.

[0005] Technical Solution for Solving the Problem

[0006] According to an embodiment, the magnetic head includes a reproducing portion that includes a medium facing surface. The reproducing portion includes a first magnetic element. The first magnetic element includes a first magnetic layer, a second magnetic layer, and a third magnetic layer. In a first direction along the medium facing surface, the first magnetic layer is disposed between the third magnetic layer and the second magnetic layer. The first magnetic layer magnetization of the first magnetic layer includes a first component along a second direction intersecting the medium facing surface. The second magnetic layer magnetization of the second magnetic layer includes a second component along the second direction. The orientation of the second component is opposite to the orientation of the first component. The third magnetic layer magnetization of the third magnetic layer includes a third component along a third direction intersecting a plane including the first direction and the second direction.

[0007] According to the magnetic head having the above configuration, a magnetic head and a magnetic recording device capable of improving characteristics can be provided. Description of the Drawings

[0008] Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a magnetic head according to a first embodiment.

[0009] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a magnetic head according to a first embodiment.

[0010] Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a magnetic head according to a first embodiment.

[0011] Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a magnetic head according to a first embodiment.

[0012] Figure 5 It is a schematic diagram illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment.

[0013] Figure 6 (a) to Figure 6 (d) of it are schematic diagrams illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment.

[0014] Figure 7 It is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment.

[0015] Figure 8 It is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 9 It is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 10 It is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 11 It is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 12 It is a schematic perspective view illustrating the magnetic head and the magnetic recording device according to the second embodiment.

[0020] Figure 13 It is a schematic perspective view of a part of the magnetic recording device according to the embodiment.

[0021] Figure 14 It is a schematic perspective view of the magnetic recording device according to the embodiment.

[0022] Figure 15 (a) of it and Figure 15 (b) of it are schematic perspective views of a part of the magnetic recording device according to the embodiment.

[0023] Explanation of reference numerals

[0024] 10A, 10B: First and second magnetic elements; 10E: Reproduction element; 10F: Medium facing surface; 10i: First insulating member; 10j: Insulating layer; 11 - 16: First to sixth magnetic layers; 11A, 12A: First and second additional magnetic layers; 13A: Third facing magnetic layer; 13AM: Magnetization of the third facing magnetic layer; 16A: Sixth facing magnetic layer; 16AM: Magnetization of the sixth facing magnetic layer; 11M - 16M: Magnetization of the first to sixth magnetic layers; 31 - 38: First to eighth non-magnetic layers; 32A: Second facing non-magnetic layer; 36A: Sixth facing non-magnetic layer; 41, 42: First and second side magnetic layers; 41M, 42M: Magnetization of the first and second sides; 49: Side non-magnetic layer; 70: Reproduction section; 71 - 78: First to eighth shields; 77A, 78A: Seventh and eighth facing shields; 71M - 76M: Magnetization of the first to sixth shields; 77n, 78n: Seventh and eighth intermediate non-magnetic layers; 80: Magnetic recording medium; 81: Magnetic recording layer; 82: Medium substrate; 83: Magnetization; 85: Medium movement direction; 87a, 87b: First and second tracks; 90: Recording section; 91, 92: First and second magnetic poles; 93: Recording section element; 110 - 115: Magnetic heads; 150: Magnetic recording 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: Support frame; 162: Coil; 180: Recording medium disk; 180M: Spindle motor; 181: Recording medium; 190: Signal processing section; AR: Arrow; D1 - D3: First to third directions; H1, H2: First and second magnetic fields; OP1: First operating state; ST1 - ST4: First to fourth states; r1 - r4: First to fourth regions; s1, s2: First and second recording states; t11 - t13: Thicknesses of the first to third magnetic layers; t31 - t36: Thicknesses of the first to sixth non-magnetic layers; w11, w12: Lengths of the first and second magnetic layers; w41, w42: Lengths of the first and second side magnetic layers. Detailed Embodiments

[0025] Hereinafter, each embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0026] The accompanying drawings are schematic or conceptual diagrams, and the relationships between the thicknesses and widths of the respective parts, the ratios of the sizes between the parts, etc. are not necessarily the same as in reality. Even when showing the same part, there are cases where the sizes and ratios thereof are shown differently according to the accompanying drawings.

[0027] In the specification and drawings of the present application, the same reference numerals are assigned to elements that are the same as those previously described with respect to the figures that have already appeared, and detailed descriptions are appropriately omitted.

[0028] (First Embodiment)

[0029] Figures 1 to 4 It is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a magnetic head according to the first embodiment.

[0030] Figure 1 It is Figure 2 A cross-sectional view taken along line A1 - A2. Figure 3 It is Figure 2 A cross-sectional view taken along line B1 - B2. Figure 4 It is Figure 2 A cross-sectional view taken along line B3 - B4.

[0031] As Figure 1 shown, the magnetic head 110 according to the embodiment includes a reproducing portion 70. The reproducing portion 70 includes a medium facing surface 10F. The medium facing surface 10F faces the magnetic recording medium 80. The reproducing portion 70 is configured to reproduce information recorded on the magnetic recording medium 80. The magnetic recording medium 80 is, for example, a perpendicular recording medium.

[0032] The reproducing portion 70 includes a first magnetic element 10A. The first magnetic element 10A includes a first magnetic layer 11, a second magnetic layer 12, and a third magnetic layer 13. In a first direction D1 along the medium facing surface 10F, the first magnetic layer 11 is disposed between the third magnetic layer 13 and the second magnetic layer 12. The first magnetic layer 11, the second magnetic layer 12, and the third magnetic layer 13 are included in, for example, a reproducing element 10E.

[0033] The direction perpendicular to the medium facing surface 10F is defined as the Z-axis direction. One direction perpendicular to the Z-axis direction is defined as the X-axis direction. The direction perpendicular to the Z-axis direction and the X-axis direction is defined as the Y-axis direction. The Z-axis direction corresponds to, for example, the height direction. The X-axis direction corresponds to, for example, the along-track (down track) direction. The Y-axis direction corresponds to, for example, the cross-track direction. The first direction D1 can be, for example, the X-axis direction.

[0034] The first magnetic layer magnetization 11M of the first magnetic layer 11 includes a component (first component) along a second direction D2. The second direction D2 intersects the medium facing surface 10F. The second direction D2 can be, for example, the Z-axis direction. The second direction D2 can also be perpendicular to the medium facing surface 10F.

[0035] The second magnetic layer magnetization 12M of the second magnetic layer 12 includes a component (second component) along the second direction D2. The orientation of the second component is opposite to that of the first component. For example, the second magnetic layer 12 is antiferromagnetically coupled to the first magnetic layer 11.

[0036] The magnetization 13M of the third magnetic layer 13 of the third magnetic layer includes a component (third component) along the third direction D3. The third direction D3 intersects the plane including the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. The third direction D3 is, for example, the Y-axis direction.

[0037] In an embodiment, the reproducing unit 70 can face two recording tracks included in the magnetic recording medium 80 at the same time. The resistance of the first magnetic element 10A changes in accordance with changes in the recording states of the two recording tracks. By detecting the signal obtained from the first magnetic element 10A, the information recorded on the magnetic recording medium 80 can be reproduced.

[0038] For example, the third magnetic layer 13 functions as a reference layer. The first magnetic layer 11 and the second magnetic layer 12 function as free layers. The magnetization of the free layer changes in accordance with changes in the recording states of the two recording tracks. Due to the change in the magnetization of the free layer, the angle between the magnetization of the reference layer and the magnetization of the free layer changes. The change of the first magnetic element 10A is based on the change in the angle of magnetization.

[0039] In an embodiment, the magnetization of the first magnetic layer 11 and the magnetization of the second magnetic layer 12 that function as free layers rotate stably in a linked manner. For example, in accordance with the magnetization states in the two recording tracks, a magnetic field (for example, "horizontal magnetic field") including a component in the third direction D3 is applied to these magnetic layers. By the horizontal magnetic field, the magnetization of these magnetic layers rotates within the plane with the first direction D1 as the axis. The magnetization of these magnetic layers can rotate stably and with high precision in a linked manner. Thereby, a reproduction signal with less noise can be obtained.

[0040] According to the embodiment, a high-precision signal with less noise can be obtained even when the pitch between multiple recording tracks is small. For example, a high TPI (tracks per inch) can be obtained. According to the embodiment, for example, the spatial resolution in the track direction can be improved. According to the embodiment, a magnetic head capable of improving characteristics can be provided.

[0041] The first magnetic element 10A may further include a first non-magnetic layer 31. The first non-magnetic layer 31 is provided between the first magnetic layer 11 and the second magnetic layer 12. The first non-magnetic layer 31 includes, for example, at least one selected from Ru and Ir. The thickness t31 of the first non-magnetic layer 31 in the first direction D1 of the first non-magnetic layer (refer to Figure 1)For example, it satisfies one of the first condition and the second condition. In the first condition, the first non-magnetic layer 31 contains Ru, and the thickness t31 of the first non-magnetic layer is 0.1 nm or more and 1 nm or less. In the second condition, the first non-magnetic layer 31 contains Ir, and the thickness t31 of the first non-magnetic layer is 0.3 nm or more and 0.8 nm or less. Through such a first non-magnetic layer 31, stable antiferromagnetic coupling can be obtained in the first magnetic layer 11 and the second magnetic layer 12.

[0042] The first magnetic element 10A may further include a second non-magnetic layer 32. The second non-magnetic layer 32 is disposed between the third magnetic layer 13 and the first magnetic layer 11. The second non-magnetic layer 32 contains, for example, at least one selected from MgO, Al2O3, Cu, and Ag. For example, a high MR ratio can be obtained. A high-strength reproduction signal can be obtained. Noise can be suppressed.

[0043] The thickness t32 of the second non-magnetic layer 32 along the first direction D1 is, for example, 0.5 nm or more and 2 nm or less. In one example, the thickness t31 of the first non-magnetic layer may be thinner than the thickness t32 of the second non-magnetic layer 32 in the first direction D1.

[0044] In the embodiment, the magnetization 11M of the first magnetic layer can be controlled by, for example, the shape anisotropy of the first magnetic layer 11. The magnetization 12M of the second magnetic layer can be controlled by, for example, the shape anisotropy of the second magnetic layer 12.

[0045] As Figure 1 and Figure 2 shown in the example, the first magnetic element 10A may further include a first side magnetic layer 41 and a second side magnetic layer 42. At least a part of the first magnetic layer 11 is disposed between the medium opposing surface 10F and the first side magnetic layer 41 in the second direction D2. At least a part of the second magnetic layer 12 is disposed between the medium opposing surface 10F and the second side magnetic layer 42 in the second direction D2.

[0046] The first side magnetization 41M of the first side magnetic layer 41 includes a first side component along the second direction D2. The second side magnetization 42M of the second side magnetic layer 42 includes a second side component along the second direction D2. The orientation of the second side component is opposite to the orientation of the first side component. The second side magnetic layer 42 is antiferromagnetically coupled to the first side magnetic layer 41. The first side magnetic layer 41 and the second side magnetic layer 42 function as, for example, a bias application portion. Through the first side magnetic layer 41 and the second side magnetic layer 42, the magnetization 11M of the first magnetic layer and the magnetization 12M of the second magnetic layer are stably controlled.

[0047] As Figure 1As shown, the first magnetic element 10A may include a side non-magnetic layer 49. The side non-magnetic layer 49 is disposed between the first side magnetic layer 41 and the second side magnetic layer 42. The material of the side non-magnetic layer 49 may be the same as the material of the first non-magnetic layer 31. The thickness of the side non-magnetic layer 49 may be the same as the thickness of the first non-magnetic layer 31.

[0048] As Figure 1 and Figure 2 shown, the reproduction unit 70 may further include a first shield 71 and a second shield 72. The first magnetic element 10A is disposed between the first shield 71 and the second shield 72 in the first direction D1. The first shield magnetization 71M of the first shield 71 has the orientation of the third component of the third magnetic layer magnetization 13M of the third magnetic layer 13. The second shield magnetization 72M of the second shield 72 has the orientation of the third component.

[0049] The first magnetic element 10A may further include a third non-magnetic layer 33 and a fourth non-magnetic layer 34. The third non-magnetic layer 33 is disposed between the first shield 71 and the third magnetic layer 13 in the first direction D1. The fourth non-magnetic layer 34 is disposed between the second magnetic layer 12 and the second shield 72 in the first direction D1. The third non-magnetic layer 33 contains, for example, Ta or the like. The fourth non-magnetic layer 34 contains, for example, Ta or the like.

[0050] In one example, at least one of the first magnetic layer 11 and the second magnetic layer 12 contains, for example, at least one selected from Fe, Ni, and Co. The first magnetic layer 11 and the second magnetic layer 12 are, for example, ferromagnetic layers. The third magnetic layer 13 contains, for example, at least one selected from Fe, Ni, and Co.

[0051] The first shield 71 and the second shield 72 contain, for example, at least one selected from Fe, Ni, and Co.

[0052] At least one of the first side magnetic layer 41 and the second side magnetic layer 42 contains, for example, at least one selected from Fe, Ni, and Co.

[0053] The first magnetic layer thickness t11 of the first magnetic layer 11 in the first direction D1 may be, for example, 2 nm or more and 8 nm or less. The second magnetic layer thickness t12 of the second magnetic layer 12 in the first direction D1 may be, for example, 2 nm or more and 8 nm or less. The third magnetic layer thickness t13 of the third magnetic layer 13 in the first direction D1 may be, for example, 2 nm or more and 8 nm or less.

[0054] For example, the thickness t11 of the first magnetic layer may also be different from the thickness t12 of the second magnetic layer. As a result, for example, the response of the magnetic recording medium 80 to a magnetic field becomes asymmetric. For example, the thickness t11 of the first magnetic layer may be different from the thickness t12 of the second magnetic layer. For example, the output of the recording pattern for the magnetic recording medium 80 can be controlled to a desired state.

[0055] The thickness t33 of the third non-magnetic layer 33 in the first direction D1 may be, for example, 1 nm or more and 3 nm or less. The thickness t34 of the fourth non-magnetic layer 34 in the first direction D1 may be, for example, 1 nm or more and 3 nm or less.

[0056] As Figure 1 shown, the reproducing unit 70 may further include a first insulating member 10i. The first insulating member 10i may be disposed between the first shield 71 and the second shield 72 and around at least a part of the first magnetic element 10A.

[0057] As Figure 3 shown, the length w41 of the first side magnetic layer 41 along the third direction D3 may be longer than the length w11 of the first magnetic layer 11 along the third direction D3. As Figure 4 shown, the length w42 of the second side magnetic layer 42 along the third direction D3 may be longer than the length w12 of the second magnetic layer 12 along the third direction D3.

[0058] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment.

[0059] As Figure 5 shown, the magnetic recording medium 80 includes a first track 87a and a second track 87b. The first track 87a includes a first region r1 and a second region r2. The second track 87b includes a third region r3 and a fourth region r4. The direction from the first region r1 to the second region r2 is along the first direction D1. The direction from the third region r3 to the fourth region r4 is along the first direction D1. The direction from the first region r1 to the third region r3 is along the third direction D3. The direction from the second region r2 to the fourth region r4 is along the third direction D3.

[0060] The reproducing unit 70 is configured to output a signal corresponding to the magnetization state of each of the first region r1, the second region r2, the third region r3, and the fourth region r4. The magnetization state corresponds to the recorded information. In one state, the reproducing unit 70 faces the first region r1 and the third region r3. In one state, the reproducing unit 70 faces the second region r2 and the fourth region r4.

[0061] The first region r1, the second region r2, the third region r3, and the fourth region r4 are each configured to have either the first recording state or the second recording state. The first recording state is one of the first magnetization state and the second magnetization state. The second recording state is the other of the first magnetization state and the second magnetization state. For example, the first magnetization state is one of the upward magnetization and the downward magnetization. The second magnetization state is the other of the upward magnetization and the downward magnetization. The magnetizations of the first region r1, the second region r2, the third region r3, and the fourth region r4 are set corresponding to the recording information as the purpose.

[0062] Figure 6 of (a) to Figure 6 (d) of FIG. is a schematic diagram illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment.

[0063] These figures illustrate several pieces of recording information recorded on the magnetic recording medium 80. As Figure 6 of (a) to Figure 6 shown in (d) of FIG., in one operating state (the first operating state OP1), at least a part of the first magnetic layer 11 faces the first region r1 and the third region r3. In the first operating state OP1, at least a part of the second magnetic layer 12 faces the second region r2 and the fourth region r4.

[0064] Figure 6 (a) of FIG. corresponds to the first state ST1 in the first operating state OP1. In the first state ST1, the first region r1 is in the first recording state s1, the second region r2 is in the second recording state s2, the third region r3 is in the second recording state s2, and the fourth region r4 is in the first recording state s1.

[0065] In one example, the first recording state s1 is the upward magnetization, and the second recording state s2 is the downward magnetization.

[0066] Figure 6 (b) of FIG. corresponds to the second state ST2 in the first operating state OP1. In the second state ST2, the first region r1 is in the first recording state s1, the second region r2 is in the second recording state s2, the third region r3 is in the first recording state s1, and the fourth region r4 is in the second recording state s2.

[0067] Figure 6 (c) of FIG. corresponds to the third state ST3 in the first operating state OP1. In the third state ST3, the first region r1 is in the second recording state s2, the second region r2 is in the first recording state s1, the third region r3 is in the second recording state s2, and the fourth region r4 is in the first recording state s1.

[0068] In the above-described first state ST1, the magnetization states are different between the first region r1 and the third region r3, and the magnetization states are different between the second region r2 and the fourth region r4. Moreover, the magnetization state changes between the first region r1 and the second region r2. The magnetization state changes between the third region r3 and the fourth region r4. In such a first state ST1, a first magnetic field H1 is applied to the first magnetic layer 11. The first magnetic field H1 includes a component along the third direction D3. A second magnetic field H2 is applied to the second magnetic layer 12. The second magnetic field H2 includes a component along the third direction D3. The orientation of the second magnetic field H2 is opposite to the orientation of the first magnetic field H1.

[0069] Through such a first magnetic field H1 and second magnetic field H2, the magnetization 11M of the first magnetic layer and the magnetization 12M of the second magnetic layer rotate significantly in a linked manner. As a result, the angle between the magnetization 11M of the first magnetic layer and the magnetization 13M of the third magnetic layer changes significantly.

[0070] On the other hand, in the second state ST2 and the third state ST3, the magnetization 11M of the first magnetic layer and the magnetization 12M of the second magnetic layer do not substantially change. Therefore, between the second state ST2 and the third state ST3, the resistance does not substantially change. On the other hand, between the first state ST1 and the second state ST2, the change in resistance is large. Between the first state ST1 and the third state ST3, the change in resistance is large.

[0071] For example, let the resistance of the first magnetic element 10A in the first state ST1 be the first state resistance. Let the resistance of the first magnetic element 10A in the second state ST2 be the second state resistance. Let the resistance of the first magnetic element 10A in the third state ST3 be the third state resistance. The first absolute value of the first difference between the first state resistance and the second state resistance is larger than the second absolute value of the second difference between the second state resistance and the third state resistance. The second difference between the second state resistance and the third state resistance may also be substantially 0.

[0072] By detecting such a difference (change) in resistance, the information recorded on the magnetic recording medium 80 can be reproduced.

[0073] Figure 6 (d) corresponds to the fourth state ST4 in the first operating state OP1. In the fourth state ST4, the first region r1 is in the second recording state s2, the second region r2 is in the first recording state s1, the third region r3 is in the first recording state s1, and the fourth region r4 is in the second recording state s2.

[0074] In the fourth state ST4, a first magnetic field H1 is applied to the first magnetic layer 11. The first magnetic field H1 includes a component along the third direction D3. A second magnetic field H2 is applied to the second magnetic layer 12. The second magnetic field H2 includes a component along the third direction D3. The orientation of the second magnetic field H2 is opposite to the orientation of the first magnetic field H1. The magnetization 11M of the first magnetic layer and the magnetization 12M of the second magnetic layer rotate significantly in a linked manner. As a result, the angle between the magnetization 11M of the first magnetic layer and the magnetization 13M of the third magnetic layer changes significantly.

[0075] For example, the resistance of the first magnetic element 10A in the fourth state ST4 is set as the fourth state resistance. The absolute value of the third difference between the fourth state resistance and the second state resistance is larger than the second absolute value.

[0076] In the above example, the presence or absence of the state difference between the first region r1 and the third region r3, and the presence or absence of the state difference between the second region r2 and the fourth region r4 are used in the reproduction operation. For example, the output of the reproduction unit 70 can differentially respond to the state difference (change) of a plurality of regions (bits) arranged in the track direction. As a result, it is easy to obtain high resolution.

[0077] In the embodiment, recording and reproduction may also be performed based on the combination of the magnetization in the first track 87a and the magnetization in the second track 87b. Moreover, in the embodiment, recording and reproduction may also be performed based on the state of one track. The magnetic head 110 can be applied to various recording and reproduction methods. For example, through a recording and reproduction method based on the combination of the magnetization of multiple tracks, it is easy to obtain a high TPI even when the spatial resolution of the first magnetic element 10A is low. For example, high spatial resolution can be obtained in the track direction. A magnetic head that can improve characteristics can be provided.

[0078] Figure 7 It is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment.

[0079] As Figure 7 shown, in the magnetic head 111 according to the embodiment, the reproduction unit 70 further includes a third shield 73 and a fourth shield 74. The configuration of the magnetic head 111 other than this can be the same as the configuration of the magnetic head 110.

[0080] In the magnetic head 111, the first magnetic element 10A is disposed between the third shield 73 and the fourth shield 74 in the third direction D3. The third shield magnetization 73M of the third shield 73 has the orientation of the third component of the third magnetic layer magnetization 13M. The fourth shield magnetization 74M of the fourth shield 74 has the orientation of the third component. Noise can be further reduced.

[0081] Figure 8It is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment.

[0082] As Figure 8 shown, in the magnetic head 112 according to the embodiment, the first magnetic element 10A further includes a first additional magnetic layer 11A. The configuration of the magnetic head 112 other than this can be the same as that of the magnetic head 110 or the magnetic head 111.

[0083] In the magnetic head 112, the third magnetic layer 13 is disposed between the first additional magnetic layer 11A and the first magnetic layer 11 in the first direction D1. The first additional magnetic layer 11A contains IrMn. The first additional magnetic layer 11A is, for example, an antiferromagnetic layer. For example, the magnetization 13M of the third magnetic layer is more stable. A stable signal with reduced noise can be obtained.

[0084] Figure 9 It is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment.

[0085] As Figure 9 shown, in the magnetic head 113 according to the embodiment, the first magnetic element 10A further includes a third opposing magnetic layer 13A and a second opposing non-magnetic layer 32A. The configuration of the magnetic head 113 other than this can be the same as that of the magnetic heads 110 to 112.

[0086] In the magnetic head 113, the third opposing magnetic layer 13A is disposed between the third magnetic layer 13 and the second non-magnetic layer 32 in the first direction D1. The second opposing non-magnetic layer 32A is disposed between the third magnetic layer 13 and the third opposing magnetic layer 13A in the first direction D1. For example, the second opposing non-magnetic layer 32A contains Ru. The magnetization 13AM of the third opposing magnetic layer 13A of the third opposing magnetic layer is antiparallel to the magnetization 13M of the third magnetic layer 13. For example, the third opposing magnetic layer 13A and the third magnetic layer 13 are antiferromagnetically coupled. The magnetization of these magnetic layers is more stable. For example, noise and the like are further suppressed. Higher characteristics can be obtained.

[0087] Figure 10 It is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment.

[0088] As Figure 10 shown, in the magnetic head 114 according to the embodiment, the reproducing section 70 further includes a second magnetic element 10B. The configuration of the magnetic head 114 other than this can be the same as that of any one of the magnetic heads 110 to 113.

[0089] In the magnetic head 114, the direction from the first magnetic element 10A to the second magnetic element 10B includes a component in the first direction D1. The second magnetic element 10B includes a fourth magnetic layer 14, a fifth magnetic layer 15, and a sixth magnetic layer 16. In the first direction D1, the fourth magnetic layer 14 is disposed between the sixth magnetic layer 16 and the fifth magnetic layer 15.

[0090] The fourth magnetic layer magnetization 14M of the fourth magnetic layer 14 includes a fourth component along the third direction D3. The fifth magnetic layer magnetization 15M of the fifth magnetic layer 15 includes a fifth component along the third direction D3. The orientation of the fifth component is opposite to the orientation of the fourth component. The sixth magnetic layer magnetization 16M of the sixth magnetic layer 16 includes a sixth component along the second direction D2.

[0091] With such a second magnetic element 10B, for example, a magnetic field along the second direction D2 based on the magnetization of the magnetic recording medium 80 can be detected. Information recorded on the magnetic recording medium 80 can be detected with higher accuracy.

[0092] For example, multi-valued data can be reproduced by combining and processing the signals obtained from the first magnetic element 10A and the signals obtained from the second magnetic element 10B.

[0093] For example, the second magnetic element 10B further includes a fifth non-magnetic layer 35 disposed between the fourth magnetic layer 14 and the fifth magnetic layer 15. The fifth non-magnetic layer 35 satisfies one of the third condition and the fourth condition. Under the third condition, the fifth non-magnetic layer 35 contains Ru, and the fifth non-magnetic layer thickness t35 in the first direction D1 of the fifth non-magnetic layer 35 is 0.1 nm or more and 1 nm or less. Under the fourth condition, the fifth non-magnetic layer contains Ir, and the fifth non-magnetic layer thickness t35 is 0.3 nm or more and 0.8 nm or less.

[0094] The second magnetic element 10B may further include a sixth non-magnetic layer 36 disposed between the sixth magnetic layer 16 and the fourth magnetic layer 14. The sixth non-magnetic layer 36 contains at least one selected from MgO, Al2O3, Cu, and Ag. A large resistance change can be easily obtained.

[0095] The sixth non-magnetic layer thickness t36 of the sixth non-magnetic layer 36 along the first direction D1 is, for example, 0.5 nm or more and 2 nm or less. The fifth non-magnetic layer thickness t35 may be thinner than the sixth non-magnetic layer thickness t36 of the sixth non-magnetic layer 36 in the first direction D1.

[0096] The reproduction unit 70 may include a fifth shielding member 75 and a sixth shielding member 76. The second magnetic element 10B is disposed between the fifth shielding member 75 and the sixth shielding member 76 in the first direction D1. The fifth shielding magnetization 75M of the fifth shielding member 75 intersects the sixth magnetic layer magnetization 16M of the sixth magnetic layer 16. The fifth shielding magnetization 75M includes, for example, a component in the third direction D3. The sixth shielding magnetization 76M of the sixth shielding member 76 intersects the sixth magnetic layer magnetization 16M. For example, the sixth shielding magnetization 76M is parallel to the fifth shielding magnetization 75M. The fifth shielding magnetization 75M and the sixth shielding magnetization 76M are along the third direction D3, for example. For example, an insulating layer 10j may be disposed between the second shielding member 72 and the fifth shielding member 75.

[0097] The second magnetic element 10B may include a seventh non-magnetic layer 37 and an eighth non-magnetic layer 38. The seventh non-magnetic layer 37 is disposed between the fifth shielding member 75 and the sixth magnetic layer 16 in the first direction. The eighth non-magnetic layer 38 is disposed between the fifth magnetic layer 15 and the sixth shielding member 76 in the first direction. The seventh non-magnetic layer 37 includes Ta or the like, for example. The eighth non-magnetic layer 38 includes Ta or the like, for example.

[0098] The second magnetic element 10B may further include a second additional magnetic layer 12A. The sixth magnetic layer 16 is disposed between the second additional magnetic layer 12A and the fourth magnetic layer 14 in the first direction D1. The second additional magnetic layer 12A contains IrMn. The second additional magnetic layer 12A is an antiferromagnetic layer, for example. For example, the sixth magnetic layer magnetization 16M is more stable. A stable signal with reduced noise can be obtained.

[0099] Figure 11 It is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment.

[0100] As Figure 11 shown, in the magnetic head 115 according to the embodiment, the reproduction unit 70 also includes a first magnetic element 10A and a second magnetic element 10B. The first magnetic element 10A includes a third shielding member 73 and a fourth shielding member 74. The configuration of the magnetic head 115 other than this may be the same as the configuration of the magnetic head 114.

[0101] In the magnetic head 115, the first magnetic element 10A includes a third opposing magnetic layer 13A and a second opposing non-magnetic layer 32A.

[0102] In the magnetic head 115, the second magnetic element 10B further includes a sixth opposing magnetic layer 16A and a sixth opposing nonmagnetic layer 36A. The sixth opposing magnetic layer 16A is disposed between the sixth magnetic layer 16 and the sixth nonmagnetic layer 36 in the first direction D1. The sixth opposing nonmagnetic layer 36A is disposed between the sixth magnetic layer 16 and the sixth opposing magnetic layer 16A in the first direction D1. For example, the sixth opposing nonmagnetic layer 36A contains Ru. The sixth opposing magnetic layer magnetization 16AM of the sixth opposing magnetic layer 16A is antiparallel to the sixth magnetic layer magnetization 16M of the sixth magnetic layer 16. For example, the sixth opposing magnetic layer 16A and the sixth magnetic layer 16 are antiferromagnetically coupled. The magnetization of these magnetic layers is more stable. For example, noise and the like are further suppressed. Higher characteristics can be obtained.

[0103] The second magnetic element 10B includes a seventh shield 77, a seventh opposing shield 77A, an eighth shield 78, and an eighth opposing shield 78A. The fourth magnetic layer 14 is disposed between the seventh shield 77 and the eighth shield 78 in the third direction D3. The fifth magnetic layer 15 is disposed between the seventh opposing shield 77A and the eighth opposing shield 78A in the third direction D3. The second magnetic element 10B may further include a seventh intermediate nonmagnetic layer 77n and an eighth intermediate nonmagnetic layer 78n. The seventh intermediate nonmagnetic layer 77n is disposed between the seventh shield 77 and the seventh opposing shield 77A. The eighth intermediate nonmagnetic layer 78n is disposed between the eighth shield 78 and the eighth opposing shield 78A. These intermediate nonmagnetic layers contain Ru, for example. For example, the magnetization of the seventh opposing shield 77A is antiparallel to the magnetization of the seventh shield 77. For example, the magnetization of the eighth opposing shield 78A is antiparallel to the magnetization of the eighth shield 78.

[0104] In the magnetic head 115, for example, multi-valued data can also be reproduced by combining and processing the signals obtained from the first magnetic element 10A and the signals obtained from the second magnetic element 10B.

[0105] In an embodiment, information related to the direction (orientation) of magnetization can be obtained, for example, by measuring the characteristics (resistance) of a magnetic element in a state where an external magnetization is applied to the reproducing unit 70. Information related to the direction (orientation) of magnetization can be obtained by a magnetic force microscope or the like, for example. In cases where the element size and the recording area in the magnetic recording medium 80 are small, it may be difficult to obtain correct information by the above methods.

[0106] Hereinafter, several examples of the reproduction method applicable to the embodiment will be described. In the following description, the first area r1 is in the first recording state s1 or the second recording state s2. For simplicity, the first recording state s1 is denoted as "+", and the second recording state s2 is denoted as "-". The combination of the recording states of (the first area r1, the third area r3) is any one of (-,-), (-,+), (+,-), and (+,+). The combination of the recording states of (the second area r2, the fourth area r4) is any one of (-,-), (-,+), (+,-), and (+,+).

[0107] In the first pattern, (the first area r1, the third area r3) is (-,-), and (the second area r2, the fourth area r4) is (-,-).

[0108] In the second pattern, (the first area r1, the third area r3) is (-,-), and (the second area r2, the fourth area r4) is (-,+).

[0109] In the third pattern, (the first area r1, the third area r3) is (-,-), and (the second area r2, the fourth area r4) is (+,-).

[0110] In the fourth pattern, (the first area r1, the third area r3) is (-,-), and (the second area r2, the fourth area r4) is (+,+).

[0111] In the fifth pattern, (the first area r1, the third area r3) is (-,+), and (the second area r2, the fourth area r4) is (-,-).

[0112] In the sixth pattern, (the first area r1, the third area r3) is (-,+), and (the second area r2, the fourth area r4) is (-,+).

[0113] In the seventh pattern, (the first area r1, the third area r3) is (-,+), and (the second area r2, the fourth area r4) is (+,-).

[0114] In the eighth pattern, (the first area r1, the third area r3) is (-,+), and (the second area r2, the fourth area r4) is (+,+).

[0115] In the ninth pattern, (the first area r1, the third area r3) is (+,-), and (the second area r2, the fourth area r4) is (-,-).

[0116] In the tenth pattern, (the first area r1, the third area r3) is (+,-), and (the second area r2, the fourth area r4) is (-,+).

[0117] In the 11th mode, (the first region r1, the third region r3) is (+, -), and (the second region r2, the fourth region r4) is (+, -).

[0118] In the 12th mode, (the first region r1, the third region r3) is (+, -), and (the second region r2, the fourth region r4) is (+, +).

[0119] In the 13th mode, (the first region r1, the third region r3) is (+, +), and (the second region r2, the fourth region r4) is (-, -).

[0120] In the 14th mode, (the first region r1, the third region r3) is (+, +), and (the second region r2, the fourth region r4) is (-, +).

[0121] In the 15th mode, (the first region r1, the third region r3) is (+, +), and (the second region r2, the fourth region r4) is (+, -).

[0122] In the 16th mode, (the first region r1, the third region r3) is (+, +), and (the second region r2, the fourth region r4) is (+, +).

[0123] In the first reproduction mode related to the second magnetic element 10B, 5-value information is applied. In the third reproduction mode, for example, the following configuration can be applied.

[0124] In the first mode, the output is 0, corresponding to the label "0".

[0125] In the second mode, the output is 0.5, corresponding to the label "0.5".

[0126] In the third mode, the output is 0.5, corresponding to the label "0.5".

[0127] In the fourth mode, the output is 1, corresponding to the label "1".

[0128] In the fifth mode, the output is -0.5, corresponding to the label "-0.5".

[0129] In the sixth mode, the output is 0, corresponding to the label "0".

[0130] In the seventh mode, the output is 0, corresponding to the label "0".

[0131] In the eighth mode, the output is 0.5, corresponding to the label "0.5".

[0132] In the ninth mode, the output is -0.5, corresponding to the label "-0.5".

[0133] In the 10th mode, the output is 0, corresponding to the label "0".

[0134] In the 11th mode, the output is 0, corresponding to the label "0".

[0135] In the 12th mode, the output is 0.5, corresponding to the label "0.5".

[0136] In the 13th mode, the output is -1, corresponding to the label "-1".

[0137] In the 14th mode, the output is -0.5, corresponding to the label "-0.5".

[0138] In the 15th mode, the output is -0.5, corresponding to the label "-0.5".

[0139] In the 16th mode, the output is 0, corresponding to the label "0".

[0140] In the second reproduction method related to the first magnetic element 10A, 5-value information is applied. In the fourth reproduction method, for example, the following configuration can be applied.

[0141] In the 1st mode, the output is 0, corresponding to the label "0".

[0142] In the 2nd mode, the output is 0.5, corresponding to the label "0.5".

[0143] In the 3rd mode, the output is -0.5, corresponding to the label "-0.5".

[0144] In the 4th mode, the output is 0, corresponding to the label "0".

[0145] In the 5th mode, the output is -0.5, corresponding to the label "-0.5".

[0146] In the 6th mode, the output is 0, corresponding to the label "0".

[0147] In the 7th mode, the output is -1, corresponding to the label "-1".

[0148] In the 8th mode, the output is -0.5, corresponding to the label "-0.5".

[0149] In the 9th mode, the output is 0.5, corresponding to the label "0.5".

[0150] In the 10th mode, the output is 1, corresponding to the label "1".

[0151] In the 11th mode, the output is 0, corresponding to the label "0".

[0152] In the 12th mode, the output is 0.5, corresponding to the label "0.5".

[0153] In the 13th mode, the output is 0, corresponding to the label "0".

[0154] In the 14th mode, the output is 0.5, corresponding to the label "0.5".

[0155] In the 15th mode, the output is -0.5, corresponding to the label "-0.5".

[0156] In the 16th mode, the output is 0, corresponding to the label "0".

[0157] It is also possible to combine the signals (information) obtained by the above-described first reproduction method and the signals (information) obtained by the above-described second reproduction method. Reproduction can also be performed according to the combination result. In the embodiment, a reproduction method with 6 or more values can be applied.

[0158] (Second Embodiment)

[0159] The magnetic recording apparatus 150 according to the second embodiment (see Figure 12 and Figure 14 ) includes the magnetic heads (magnetic heads 110 to 115 and their modifications) according to the first embodiment and the magnetic recording medium 80. The magnetic recording medium 80 faces the medium opposing surface 10F. The reproduction unit 70 can reproduce the information recorded on the magnetic recording medium 80.

[0160] The magnetic recording apparatus 150 is configured to perform, for example, the operations described with respect to Figure 6 (a) to Figure 6 (d). In the magnetic recording apparatus 150, a first operating state OP1 is formed. In the magnetic recording apparatus 150, at least any one of a first state ST1, a second state ST2, a third state ST3, and a fourth state ST4 is formed. A magnetic recording apparatus capable of improving characteristics can be provided.

[0161] Figure 12 It is a schematic perspective view illustrating the magnetic head and the magnetic recording apparatus according to the second embodiment.

[0162] As Figure 12 shown, the magnetic head 110 according to the embodiment includes a reproduction unit 70. The magnetic head 110 is used together with the magnetic recording medium 80. In this example, the magnetic head 110 includes a recording unit 90. Information is recorded on the magnetic recording medium 80 through the recording unit 90 of the magnetic head 110. The information recorded on the magnetic recording medium 80 is reproduced through the reproduction unit 70.

[0163] 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 also include a recording unit element 93. The recording unit element 93 may include a magnetic field control element, a high-frequency oscillation element, or the like. The recording unit element 93 may be omitted.

[0164] As Figure 12 shown, the magnetic recording medium 80 relatively moves with respect to the magnetic head 110 in the direction of the medium movement direction 85. Through the magnetic head 110, information corresponding to the magnetization 83 of the magnetic recording layer 81 is controlled at an arbitrary position. Through the magnetic head 110, information corresponding to the magnetization 83 of the magnetic recording layer 81 is reproduced at an arbitrary position.

[0165] The X-axis direction corresponds, for example, to the track direction. The Y-axis direction corresponds, for example, to the cross-track direction. The Z-axis direction corresponds, for example, to the height direction.

[0166] Figure 13 is a schematic perspective view of a part of a magnetic recording device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0167] Figure 13 An example of a head slider is illustrated.

[0168] The magnetic head 110 is provided on the head slider 159. The head slider 159 includes, for example, Al2O3 / TiC or the like. The head slider 159 relatively moves with respect to the magnetic recording medium while floating or contacting on the magnetic recording medium.

[0169] 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 a side surface of the air outflow side 159B of the head slider 159 or the like. Thus, the magnetic head 110 relatively moves with respect to the magnetic recording medium while floating or contacting on the magnetic recording medium.

[0170] Figure 14 is a schematic perspective view of a magnetic recording device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0171] Figure 15 (a) of Figure 15 and (b) of

[0172] The magnetic recording device may be a magnetic recording and reproducing device. As Figure 14As shown, in the magnetic recording device 150 according to the embodiment, a rotary actuator is used. The recording medium disk 180 is assembled to 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 device 150 according to the present embodiment may also include a plurality of recording medium disks 180. The magnetic recording device 150 may also include a recording medium 181. The recording medium 181 is, for example, an SSD (Solid State Drive). The recording medium 181 uses a non-volatile memory such as a flash memory, for example. For example, the magnetic recording device 150 may also be a hybrid HDD (Hard Disk Drive).

[0173] The head slider 159 records and reproduces information recorded on the recording medium disk 180. The head slider 159 is provided at the front end of the thin film-like suspension 154. A magnetic head according to the embodiment is provided near the front end of the head slider 159.

[0174] When the recording medium disk 180 rotates, the pressing pressure generated by the suspension 154 balances the pressure generated on the medium facing surface (ABS) of the head slider 159. 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 moving type may also be applied.

[0175] The suspension 154 is connected to one end of the arm 155 (for example, an actuator arm). The arm 155 has, for example, a bobbin portion or the like. 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 opposing yokes. The drive coil is provided between the permanent magnet and the opposing yokes. 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.

[0176] 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.

[0177] Figure 15 Example (a) illustrates the configuration of a part of the magnetic recording device and is an enlarged perspective view of the head stack assembly 160.

[0178] Figure 15Part (b) is a perspective view of a head gimbal assembly (HGA) 158 that is an example of a part of the head stack assembly 160.

[0179] As Figure 15 shown in part (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 from the bearing portion 157. The extending direction of the support frame 161 is opposite to the extending direction of the head gimbal assembly 158. The support frame 161 supports the coil 162 of the voice coil motor 156.

[0180] As Figure 15 shown in part (b), the head gimbal assembly 158 has an arm 155 extending from the bearing portion 157 and a suspension 154 extending from the arm 155.

[0181] A head slider 159 is provided at the front end of the suspension 154. A magnetic head according to the embodiment is provided on the head slider 159.

[0182] The magnetic head assembly (head gimbal assembly) 158 according to the embodiment includes the magnetic head according to the embodiment, the head slider 159 provided with the magnetic head, the suspension 154, and the 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.

[0183] The suspension 154 has, for example, leads (not shown) for recording and reproducing signals. The suspension 154 may also have, for example, leads (not shown) for a heater for flying height adjustment. The suspension 154 may also have, for example, leads (not shown) for an oscillation element or the like. These leads are electrically connected to a plurality of electrodes provided on the magnetic head.

[0184] In the magnetic recording device 150, a signal processing unit 190 is provided. The signal processing unit 190 uses the magnetic head to record and reproduce signals for the magnetic recording medium. The input / output lines of the signal processing unit 190 are connected, for example, to the electrode pads of the head gimbal assembly 158 and are electrically connected to the magnetic head.

[0185] The magnetic recording device 150 according to the embodiment includes a magnetic recording medium, the magnetic head according to the embodiment, a movable part, a position control part, and a signal processing part. The movable part can relatively move the magnetic recording medium and the magnetic head in a state of being separated or in contact. The position control part aligns the magnetic head with a predetermined recording position of the magnetic recording medium. The signal processing part performs recording and reproduction of signals for the magnetic recording medium using the magnetic head.

[0186] For example, as the above-mentioned magnetic recording medium, a recording medium disk 180 is used. The above-mentioned movable part includes, for example, the head slider 159. The above-mentioned position control part includes, for example, the head gimbal assembly 158.

[0187] The embodiments may also include the following technical solutions.

[0188] (Technical Solution 1)

[0189] A magnetic head includes a reproducing portion having a medium facing surface.

[0190] The reproducing portion includes a first magnetic element.

[0191] The first magnetic element includes:

[0192] A first magnetic layer;

[0193] A second magnetic layer; and

[0194] A third magnetic layer, in a first direction along the medium facing surface, the first magnetic layer is disposed between the third magnetic layer and the second magnetic layer.

[0195] The magnetization of the first magnetic layer of the first magnetic layer includes a first component along a second direction intersecting the medium facing surface.

[0196] The magnetization of the second magnetic layer of the second magnetic layer includes a second component along the second direction.

[0197] The orientation of the second component is opposite to the orientation of the first component.

[0198] The magnetization of the third magnetic layer of the third magnetic layer includes a third component along a third direction intersecting the plane including the first direction and the second direction.

[0199] (Technical Solution 2)

[0200] The magnetic head according to Technical Solution 1, wherein the second magnetic layer is antiferromagnetically coupled to the first magnetic layer.

[0201] (Technical Solution 3)

[0202] The magnetic head according to Technical Solution 1 or 2,

[0203] The first magnetic element further includes a first non-magnetic layer disposed between the first magnetic layer and the second magnetic layer.

[0204] The first non-magnetic layer satisfies one of a first condition and a second condition.

[0205] In the first condition, the first non-magnetic layer contains Ru, and the thickness of the first non-magnetic layer in the first direction is 0.1 nm or more and 1 nm or less.

[0206] In the second condition, the first non-magnetic layer contains Ir, and the thickness of the first non-magnetic layer is 0.3 nm or more and 0.8 nm or less.

[0207] (Technical solution 4)

[0208] The magnetic head according to Technical solution 3,

[0209] The first magnetic element further includes a second non-magnetic layer provided between the third magnetic layer and the first magnetic layer.

[0210] (Technical solution 5)

[0211] The magnetic head according to Technical solution 4,

[0212] The second non-magnetic layer contains at least one selected from MgO, Al2O3, Cu, and Ag.

[0213] (Technical solution 6)

[0214] The magnetic head according to Technical solution 4 or 5,

[0215] The thickness of the first non-magnetic layer is thinner than the thickness of the second non-magnetic layer in the first direction of the second non-magnetic layer.

[0216] (Technical solution 7)

[0217] The magnetic head according to any one of Technical solutions 1 to 6,

[0218] The first magnetic element further includes a first side magnetic layer and a second side magnetic layer,

[0219] At least a part of the first magnetic layer is provided between the medium facing surface and the first side magnetic layer in the second direction,

[0220] At least a part of the second magnetic layer is provided between the medium facing surface and the second side magnetic layer in the second direction,

[0221] The first side magnetization of the first side magnetic layer includes a first side component along the second direction,

[0222] The second side magnetization of the second side magnetic layer includes a second side component along the second direction,

[0223] The orientation of the second side component is opposite to the orientation of the first side component,

[0224] The second side magnetic layer is antiferromagnetically coupled to the first side magnetic layer.

[0225] (Technical solution 8)

[0226] The magnetic head according to any one of Technical Solutions 1 to 7

[0227] The reproducing unit further includes a first shield and a second shield,

[0228] The first magnetic element is disposed between the first shield and the second shield in the first direction,

[0229] The magnetization of the first shield of the first shield has an orientation with the third component,

[0230] The magnetization of the second shield of the second shield has the orientation with the third component.

[0231] (Technical Solution 9)

[0232] The magnetic head according to Technical Solution 8

[0233] The reproducing unit further includes a third shield and a fourth shield,

[0234] The first magnetic element is disposed between the third shield and the fourth shield in the third direction,

[0235] The magnetization of the third shield of the third shield has the orientation with the third component,

[0236] The magnetization of the fourth shield of the fourth shield has the orientation with the third component.

[0237] (Technical Solution 10)

[0238] The magnetic head according to any one of Technical Solutions 1 to 9

[0239] At least one of the first magnetic layer and the second magnetic layer contains at least one selected from Fe, Ni, and Co,

[0240] The third magnetic layer contains at least one selected from Fe, Ni, and Co.

[0241] (Technical Solution 11)

[0242] The magnetic head according to Technical Solution 7

[0243] At least one of the first magnetic layer and the second magnetic layer contains at least one selected from Fe, Ni, and Co,

[0244] The third magnetic layer contains at least one selected from Fe, Ni, and Co,

[0245] At least one of the first side magnetic layer and the second side magnetic layer contains at least one selected from Fe, Ni, and Co.

[0246] (Technical Solution 12)

[0247] The magnetic head according to any one of Technical Solutions 1 to 11,

[0248] The first magnetic element further includes a first additional magnetic layer,

[0249] The third magnetic layer is disposed between the first additional magnetic layer and the first magnetic layer in the first direction,

[0250] The first additional magnetic layer contains IrMn.

[0251] (Technical Solution 13)

[0252] The magnetic head according to Technical Solution 8 or 9,

[0253] The first magnetic element further includes a third non-magnetic layer and a fourth non-magnetic layer,

[0254] The third non-magnetic layer is disposed between the first shield and the third magnetic layer in the first direction,

[0255] The fourth non-magnetic layer is disposed between the second magnetic layer and the second shield in the first direction.

[0256] (Technical Solution 14)

[0257] The magnetic head according to any one of Technical Solutions 1 to 13,

[0258] The reproduction unit further includes a second magnetic element,

[0259] The direction from the first magnetic element to the second magnetic element includes a component in the first direction,

[0260] The second magnetic element includes:

[0261] A fourth magnetic layer;

[0262] A fifth magnetic layer; and

[0263] A sixth magnetic layer,

[0264] In the first direction, the fourth magnetic layer is disposed between the sixth magnetic layer and the fifth magnetic layer,

[0265] The magnetization of the fourth magnetic layer of the fourth magnetic layer includes a fourth component along the third direction,

[0266] The magnetization of the fifth magnetic layer of the fifth magnetic layer includes a fifth component along the third direction,

[0267] The orientation of the fifth component is opposite to that of the fourth component.

[0268] The magnetization of the sixth magnetic layer of the sixth magnetic layer includes a sixth component along the second direction.

[0269] (Technical solution 15)

[0270] The magnetic head according to Technical solution 14.

[0271] The second magnetic element further includes a fifth non-magnetic layer disposed between the fourth magnetic layer and the fifth magnetic layer.

[0272] The fifth non-magnetic layer satisfies one of the third condition and the fourth condition.

[0273] In the third condition, the fifth non-magnetic layer contains Ru, and the thickness of the fifth non-magnetic layer in the first direction of the fifth non-magnetic layer is 0.1 nm or more and 1 nm or less.

[0274] In the fourth condition, the fifth non-magnetic layer contains Ir, and the thickness of the fifth non-magnetic layer is 0.3 nm or more and 0.8 nm or less.

[0275] (Technical solution 16)

[0276] The magnetic head according to Technical solution 15.

[0277] The second magnetic element further includes a sixth non-magnetic layer disposed between the sixth magnetic layer and the fourth magnetic layer.

[0278] The sixth non-magnetic layer contains at least one selected from MgO, Al2O3, Cu, and Ag.

[0279] (Technical solution 17)

[0280] The magnetic head according to Technical solution 16.

[0281] The thickness of the fifth non-magnetic layer is thinner than the thickness of the sixth non-magnetic layer in the first direction of the sixth non-magnetic layer.

[0282] (Technical solution 18)

[0283] A magnetic recording device includes:

[0284] The magnetic head according to any one of Technical solutions 1 to 17; and

[0285] A magnetic recording medium facing the medium-facing surface,

[0286] The reproducing unit can reproduce the information recorded on the magnetic recording medium.

[0287] (Technical Solution 19)

[0288] The magnetic recording device according to Technical Solution 18,

[0289] The magnetic recording medium includes a first track and a second track,

[0290] The first track includes a first region and a second region,

[0291] The second track includes a third region and a fourth region,

[0292] The direction from the first region to the second region is along the first direction,

[0293] The direction from the third region to the fourth region is along the first direction,

[0294] The direction from the first region to the third region is along the third direction,

[0295] The direction from the second region to the fourth region is along the third direction,

[0296] The reproducing unit is configured to output signals corresponding to the magnetization states of the first region, the second region, the third region, and the fourth region, respectively.

[0297] (Technical Solution 20)

[0298] The magnetic recording device according to Technical Solution 19,

[0299] In one operating state, at least a part of the first magnetic layer faces the first region and the third region, and at least a part of the second magnetic layer faces the second region and the fourth region.

[0300] According to the embodiment, a magnetic head and a magnetic recording device capable of improving characteristics can be provided.

[0301] In the specification of the present application, "vertical" and "parallel" do not merely refer to strict vertical and strict parallel. For example, they also include deviations in the manufacturing process, etc., as long as they are substantially vertical and substantially parallel.

[0302] As described above, the embodiments of the present invention have been described with reference to specific examples. However, the present invention is not limited to these specific examples. For example, regarding the specific configurations of each element such as the shield, the magnetic layer, the intermediate layer, and the terminals included in the magnetic head and the magnetic recording 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 included in the scope of the present invention.

[0303] As long as it incorporates the gist of the present invention, a technical solution obtained by combining any two or more elements in any of the specific examples within the technically feasible scope is also included in the scope of the present invention.

[0304] In addition, all magnetic heads and magnetic recording devices that can be appropriately designed and modified by those skilled in the art based on the above-described magnetic head and magnetic recording device as an embodiment of the present invention belong to the scope of the present invention as long as they incorporate the gist of the present invention.

[0305] In addition, 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 those modification examples and correction examples are considered to also belong to the scope of the present invention.

[0306] Several embodiments of the present invention have been described, but these embodiments are 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 / or 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 head, comprising a reproducing portion including a medium facing surface, wherein the reproducing portion includes a first magnetic element, and the first magnetic element includes: a first magnetic layer; a second magnetic layer; and a third magnetic layer, in a first direction along the medium facing surface, the first magnetic layer is disposed between the third magnetic layer and the second magnetic layer, a magnetization of the first magnetic layer of the first magnetic layer includes a first component along a second direction intersecting the medium facing surface, a magnetization of the second magnetic layer of the second magnetic layer includes a second component along the second direction, a direction of the second component is opposite to a direction of the first component, a magnetization of the third magnetic layer of the third magnetic layer includes a third component along a third direction intersecting a plane including the first direction and the second direction.

2. The magnetic head according to claim 1, wherein the second magnetic layer is antiferromagnetically coupled to the first magnetic layer.

3. The magnetic head according to claim 1, wherein the first magnetic element further includes a first non-magnetic layer disposed between the first magnetic layer and the second magnetic layer, and the first non-magnetic layer satisfies one of a first condition and a second condition, in the first condition, the first non-magnetic layer contains Ru, and a thickness of the first non-magnetic layer in the first direction is 0.1 nm or more and 1 nm or less, in the second condition, the first non-magnetic layer contains Ir, and a thickness of the first non-magnetic layer is 0.3 nm or more and 0.8 nm or less.

4. The magnetic head according to claim 3, wherein the first magnetic element further includes a second non-magnetic layer disposed between the third magnetic layer and the first magnetic layer.

5. The magnetic head according to claim 4, wherein the second non-magnetic layer contains at least one selected from MgO, Al2O3, Cu, and Ag.

6. The magnetic head according to claim 4, wherein a thickness of the first non-magnetic layer is thinner than a thickness of the second non-magnetic layer in the first direction of the second non-magnetic layer.

7. The magnetic head according to claim 1, wherein the reproducing portion further includes a second magnetic element, a direction from the first magnetic element to the second magnetic element includes a component of the first direction, and the second magnetic element includes: a fourth magnetic layer; a fifth magnetic layer; and a sixth magnetic layer, in the first direction, the fourth magnetic layer is disposed between the sixth magnetic layer and the fifth magnetic layer, a magnetization of the fourth magnetic layer of the fourth magnetic layer includes a fourth component along the third direction, a magnetization of the fifth magnetic layer of the fifth magnetic layer includes a fifth component along the third direction, a direction of the fifth component is opposite to a direction of the fourth component, a magnetization of the sixth magnetic layer of the sixth magnetic layer includes a sixth component along the second direction.

8. The magnetic head according to claim 7, wherein the second magnetic element further includes a fifth non-magnetic layer disposed between the fourth magnetic layer and the fifth magnetic layer, and the fifth non-magnetic layer satisfies one of a third condition and a fourth condition, In the third condition, the fifth non-magnetic layer contains Ru, and the thickness of the fifth non-magnetic layer in the first direction of the fifth non-magnetic layer is 0.1 nm or more and 1 nm or less. In the fourth condition, the fifth non-magnetic layer contains Ir, and the thickness of the fifth non-magnetic layer is 0.3 nm or more and 0.8 nm or less.

9. The magnetic head according to claim 8, The second magnetic element further includes a sixth non-magnetic layer provided between the sixth magnetic layer and the fourth magnetic layer. The sixth non-magnetic layer contains at least one selected from MgO, Al2O3, Cu, and Ag.

10. A magnetic recording device, comprising: The magnetic head according to claim 1; and A magnetic recording medium facing the facing surface of the medium, The reproducing unit can reproduce the information recorded on the magnetic recording medium, and the magnetic recording medium includes a first track and a second track. The first track includes a first region and a second region. The second track includes a third region and a fourth region. The direction from the first region to the second region is along the first direction. The direction from the third region to the fourth region is along the first direction. The direction from the first region to the third region is along the third direction. The direction from the second region to the fourth region is along the third direction. The reproducing unit is configured to output signals corresponding to the magnetization states of the first region, the second region, the third region, and the fourth region, respectively.

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