Magnetic head and magnetic recording device

Abstract

To provide a magnetic head and a magnetic recording device capable of improving characteristics.SOLUTION: A magnetic head 110 includes a reproducing portion 70 having a medium-facing surface 10F. 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 provided between the third magnetic layer 13 and the second magnetic layer 12. The first magnetic layer magnetization of the first magnetic layer 11 includes a first component along a second direction D2 that intersects the medium-facing surface 10F. The second magnetic layer magnetization of the second magnetic layer 12 includes a second component along the second direction D2. The direction of the second component is opposite to the direction of the first component. The third magnetic layer magnetization of the third magnetic layer 13 includes a third component along a third direction D3 that intersects a plane including the first direction D1 and the second direction D2.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a magnetic head and a magnetic recording device.

Background Art

[0002] Information recorded on a magnetic recording medium such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) is reproduced using a magnetic head including a magnetic sensor using a magnetic layer. In the magnetic head, improvement in characteristics is desired.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

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

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] According to an embodiment, the magnetic head includes a reproduction unit 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. In a first direction along the medium facing surface, the first magnetic layer is provided 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 direction of the second component is opposite to the direction 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.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0006]

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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] Hereinafter, each embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The drawings are schematic or conceptual, and the relationship between the thickness and width of each part, the ratio of the sizes between parts, etc. are not necessarily the same as the actual ones. Even when representing the same part, the dimensions and ratios may be represented differently in the drawings. In the present specification and each figure, the same elements as those described above with respect to the previously shown figures are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the detailed description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0008] (First Embodiment) Figs. 1 to 4 are schematic cross-sectional views illustrating a magnetic head according to the first embodiment. Fig. 1 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A1 - A2 of Fig. 2. Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B1 - B2 of Fig. 2. Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B3 - B4 of Fig. 2. As shown in Fig. 1, the magnetic head 110 according to the embodiment includes a reproducing section 70. The reproducing section 70 includes a medium facing surface 10F. The medium facing surface 10F faces the magnetic recording medium 80. The reproducing section 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.

[0009] The reproducing section 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 provided 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, for example, included in the reproducing element 10E.

[0010] 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 down-track direction. The Y-axis direction corresponds to, for example, the cross-track direction. The first direction D1 may be, for example, the X-axis direction.

[0011] The magnetization 11M of the first magnetic layer 11 of the first magnetic layer includes a component (first component) along the second direction D2. The second direction D2 intersects the medium facing surface 10F. The second direction D2 may be, for example, the Z-axis direction. The second direction D2 may be perpendicular to the medium facing surface 10F.

[0012] The magnetization 12M of the second magnetic layer 12 of the second magnetic layer includes a component (second component) along the second direction D2. The direction of the second component is opposite to the direction of the first component. For example, the second magnetic layer 12 is antiferromagnetically coupled to the first magnetic layer 11.

[0013] 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.

[0014] In an embodiment, the reproducing unit 70 can simultaneously face two recording tracks included in the magnetic recording medium 80. The electrical resistance of the first magnetic element 10A changes according to 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.

[0015] 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 according to 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 in the first magnetic element 10A is based on the change in the angle of magnetization.

[0016] In an embodiment, the magnetization of the first magnetic layer 11 functioning as a free layer and the magnetization of the second magnetic layer 12 rotate stably in conjunction with each other. For example, a magnetic field (e.g., "horizontal magnetic field") including a component in the third direction D3 is applied to these magnetic layers according to the magnetization states in two recording tracks. Due to the horizontal magnetic field, the magnetization of these magnetic layers rotates within a plane with the first direction D1 as an axis. The magnetization of these magnetic layers can rotate stably and with high precision in conjunction with each other. Thereby, a reproduction signal with less noise can be obtained.

[0017] According to the embodiment, even when the pitch between a plurality of recording tracks is small, a high-precision signal with less noise can be obtained. For example, a high TPI (pitch per inch) can be obtained. According to the embodiment, for example, the spatial resolution in the down-track direction can be improved. According to the embodiment, a magnetic head with improved characteristics can be provided.

[0018] The first magnetic element 10A may further include a first nonmagnetic layer 31. The first nonmagnetic layer 31 is provided between the first magnetic layer 11 and the second magnetic layer 12. The first nonmagnetic layer 31 includes, for example, at least one selected from the group consisting of Ru and Ir. The first nonmagnetic layer thickness t31 (see FIG. 1) of the first nonmagnetic layer 31 in the first direction D1 satisfies, for example, one of a first condition and a second condition. In the first condition, the first nonmagnetic layer 31 contains Ru, and the first nonmagnetic layer thickness t31 is 0.1 nm or more and 1 nm or less. In the second condition, the first nonmagnetic layer 31 contains Ir, and the first nonmagnetic layer thickness t31 is 0.3 nm or more and 0.8 nm or less. With such a first nonmagnetic layer 31, stable antiferromagnetic coupling is obtained in the first magnetic layer 11 and the second magnetic layer 12.

[0019] The first magnetic element 10A may further include a second nonmagnetic layer 32. The second nonmagnetic layer 32 is provided between the third magnetic layer 13 and the first magnetic layer 11. The second nonmagnetic layer 32 includes, for example, at least one selected from the group consisting of MgO, Al2O3, Cu, and Ag. For example, a high MR ratio can be obtained. A reproduction signal with high intensity can be obtained. Noise can be suppressed.

[0020] 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 of the second non-magnetic layer 32.

[0021] In an embodiment, the magnetization 11M of the first magnetic layer may be controlled by, for example, the shape anisotropy of the first magnetic layer 11. The magnetization 12M of the second magnetic layer may be controlled by, for example, the shape anisotropy of the second magnetic layer 12.

[0022] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, 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 provided between the medium facing 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 provided between the medium facing surface 10F and the second side magnetic layer 42 in the second direction D2.

[0023] 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 direction of the second side component is opposite to the direction 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. The magnetization 11M of the first magnetic layer and the magnetization 12M of the second magnetic layer are stably controlled by the first side magnetic layer 41 and the second side magnetic layer 42.

[0024] As shown in FIG. 1, the first magnetic element 10A may include a side non-magnetic layer 49. The side non-magnetic layer 49 is provided 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.

[0025] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the playback unit 70 may further include a first shield 71 and a second shield 72. The first magnetic element 10A is provided 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 direction 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 direction of the third component.

[0026] 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 provided between the first shield 71 and the third magnetic layer 13 in the first direction D1. The fourth non-magnetic layer 34 is provided between the second magnetic layer 12 and the second shield 72 in the first direction D1. The third non-magnetic layer 33 includes, for example, Ta or the like. The fourth non-magnetic layer 34 includes, for example, Ta or the like.

[0027] In one example, 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, Ni, and Co. The first magnetic layer 11 and the second magnetic layer 12 are, for example, ferromagnetic layers. The third magnetic layer 13 includes, for example, at least one selected from the group consisting of Fe, Ni, and Co.

[0028] The first shield 71 and the second shield 72 include, for example, at least one selected from the group consisting of Fe, Ni, and Co.

[0029] At least one of the first side magnetic layer 41 and the second side magnetic layer 42 includes at least one selected from the group consisting of Fe, Ni, and Co.

[0030] 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.

[0031] For example, the first magnetic layer thickness t11 may be different from the second magnetic layer thickness t12. As a result, for example, the response of the magnetic recording medium 80 to a magnetic field becomes asymmetric. For example, the first magnetic layer thickness t11 may be different from the second magnetic layer thickness t12. For example, the output with respect to the recording pattern of the magnetic recording medium 80 can be controlled to a desired state.

[0032] The third non-magnetic layer 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 fourth non-magnetic layer 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.

[0033] As shown in FIG. 1, the reproducing unit 70 may further include a first insulating member 10i. The first insulating member 10i may be provided around at least a part of the first magnetic element 10A between the first shield 71 and the second shield 72.

[0034] As shown in FIG. 3, the first side magnetic layer length w41 of the first side magnetic layer 41 along the third direction D3 may be longer than the first magnetic layer length w11 of the first magnetic layer 11 along the third direction D3. As shown in FIG. 4, the second side magnetic layer length w42 of the second side magnetic layer 42 along the third direction D3 may be longer than the second magnetic layer length w12 of the second magnetic layer 12 along the third direction D3.

[0035] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating a magnetic head according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 5, 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] Each of the first region r1, the second region r2, the third region r3, and the fourth region r4 is configured to have either a first recording state or a second recording state. The first recording state is one of a first magnetization state and a 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 an upward magnetization and a downward magnetization. The second magnetization state is the other of the upward magnetization and the downward magnetization. The magnetization of each of the first region r1, the second region r2, the third region r3, and the fourth region r4 is set according to the target recording information.

[0038] Figs. 6(a) to 6(d) are schematic diagrams illustrating a magnetic head according to the first embodiment. These figures illustrate some recording information recorded on the magnetic recording medium 80. As shown in Figs. 6(a) to 6(d), 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.

[0039] Fig. 6(a) 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.

[0040] In one example, the first recording state s1 is an upward magnetization, and the second recording state s2 is a downward magnetization.

[0041] FIG. 6(b) corresponds to the second state ST2 in the first operation 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.

[0042] FIG. 6(c) corresponds to the third state ST3 in the first operation 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.

[0043] 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. Further, 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 direction of the second magnetic field H2 is opposite to the direction of the first magnetic field H1.

[0044] Due to such 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 greatly in conjunction with each other. Thereby, the angle between the magnetization 11M of the first magnetic layer and the magnetization 13M of the third magnetic layer changes greatly.

[0045] 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. For this reason, the electrical resistance does not substantially change between the second state ST2 and the third state ST3. On the other hand, the change in electrical resistance is large between the first state ST1 and the second state ST2. The change in electrical resistance is large between the first state ST1 and the third state ST3.

[0046] For example, let the electrical resistance of the first magnetic element 10A in the first state ST1 be the first state electrical resistance. Let the electrical resistance of the first magnetic element 10A in the second state ST2 be the second state electrical resistance. Let the electrical resistance of the first magnetic element 10A in the third state ST3 be the third state electrical resistance. The first absolute value of the first difference between the first state electrical resistance and the second state electrical resistance is greater than the second absolute value of the second difference between the second state electrical resistance and the third state electrical resistance. The second difference between the second state electrical resistance and the third state electrical resistance may be substantially 0.

[0047] By detecting such a difference (change) in electrical resistance, the information recorded on the magnetic recording medium 80 can be reproduced.

[0048] FIG. 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.

[0049] 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 direction of the second magnetic field H2 is opposite to the direction of the first magnetic field H1. The magnetization 11M of the first magnetic layer and the magnetization 12M of the second magnetic layer rotate greatly in conjunction with each other. As a result, the angle between the magnetization 11M of the first magnetic layer and the magnetization 13M of the third magnetic layer changes greatly.

[0050] For example, let the electrical resistance of the first magnetic element 10A in the fourth state ST4 be the fourth state electrical resistance. The third absolute value of the third difference between the fourth state electrical resistance and the second state electrical resistance is greater than the second absolute value.

[0051] In the above example, the presence or absence of a difference in state between the first region r1 and the third region r3, and the presence or absence of a difference in state between the second region r2 and the fourth region r4 are used in the playback operation. For example, the output of the playback unit 70 can respond differentially to the difference (change) in the states of a plurality of regions (bits) arranged in the track direction. Thereby, high resolution is easily obtained.

[0052] In the embodiment, recording and playback may be performed based on the combination of the magnetization in the first track 87a and the magnetization in the second track 87b. Further, in the embodiment, recording and playback may be performed based on the state of one track. The magnetic head 110 may be applied to various recording and playback methods. For example, by a recording and playback method based on the combination of the magnetizations of a plurality of tracks, a high TPI can be easily obtained even when the spatial resolution of the first magnetic element 10A is low. For example, high spatial resolution can be obtained in the down-track direction. A magnetic head capable of improving characteristics can be provided.

[0053] FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a magnetic head according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7, in the magnetic head 111 according to the embodiment, the playback unit 70 further includes a third shield 73 and a fourth shield 74. The configuration of the magnetic head 111 excluding this may be the same as the configuration of the magnetic head 110.

[0054] In the magnetic head 111, the first magnetic element 10A is provided 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 direction of the third component of the third magnetic layer magnetization 13M. The fourth shield magnetization 74M of the fourth shield 74 has the direction of the third component. Noise can be further reduced.

[0055] FIG. 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a magnetic head according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 8, 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 excluding this may be the same as the configuration of the magnetic head 110 or the magnetic head 111.

[0056] In the magnetic head 112, the third magnetic layer 13 is provided 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 further stabilized. A stable signal with noise suppressed can be obtained.

[0057] FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 9, 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 excluding this may be the same as the configuration of the magnetic heads 110 to 112.

[0058] In the magnetic head 113, the third opposing magnetic layer 13A is provided 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 provided 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 is antiferromagnetically coupled to the third magnetic layer 13. The magnetization of these magnetic layers is further stabilized. For example, noise and the like are further suppressed. Higher characteristics can be obtained.

[0059] FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 10, 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 excluding this may be the same as any one of the configurations of the magnetic heads 110 to 113.

[0060] 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 provided between the sixth magnetic layer 16 and the fifth magnetic layer 15.

[0061] 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 direction of the fifth component is opposite to the direction 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] For example, multi-valued data may be reproduced by combining and processing the signal obtained from the first magnetic element 10A and the signal obtained from the second magnetic element 10B.

[0064] For example, the second magnetic element 10B further includes a fifth non-magnetic layer 35 provided 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. In 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. In 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.

[0065] The second magnetic element 10B may further include a sixth non-magnetic layer 36 provided between the sixth magnetic layer 16 and the fourth magnetic layer 14. The sixth non-magnetic layer 36 includes at least one selected from the group consisting of MgO, Al2O3, Cu, and Ag. A large resistance change is easily obtained.

[0066] The thickness t36 of the sixth non-magnetic layer 36 along the first direction D1 is, for example, not less than 0.5 nm and not more than 2 nm. The thickness t35 of the fifth non-magnetic layer may be thinner than the thickness t36 of the sixth non-magnetic layer 36 in the first direction D1 of the sixth non-magnetic layer 36.

[0067] The reproducing section 70 may include a fifth shield 75 and a sixth shield 76. The second magnetic element 10B is provided between the fifth shield 75 and the sixth shield 76 in the first direction D1. The magnetization 75M of the fifth shield 75 intersects the magnetization 16M of the sixth magnetic layer 16. The magnetization 75M of the fifth shield 75 includes, for example, a component in the third direction D3. The magnetization 76M of the sixth shield 76 intersects the magnetization 16M of the sixth magnetic layer 16. For example, the magnetization 76M of the sixth shield 76 is parallel to the magnetization 75M of the fifth shield 75. The magnetization 75M of the fifth shield 75 and the magnetization 76M of the sixth shield 76 are along the third direction D3, for example. For example, an insulating layer 10j may be provided between the second shield 72 and the fifth shield 75.

[0068] 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 provided between the fifth shield 75 and the sixth magnetic layer 16 in the first direction. The eighth non-magnetic layer 38 is provided between the fifth magnetic layer 15 and the sixth shield 76 in the first direction. The seventh non-magnetic layer 37 includes, for example, Ta or the like. The eighth non-magnetic layer 38 includes, for example, Ta or the like.

[0069] The second magnetic element 10B may further include a second additional magnetic layer 12A. The sixth magnetic layer 16 is provided between the second additional magnetic layer 12A and the fourth magnetic layer 14 in the first direction D1. The second additional magnetic layer 12A includes IrMn. The second additional magnetic layer 12A is, for example, an antiferromagnetic layer. For example, the magnetization 16M of the sixth magnetic layer becomes more stabilized. A stable signal with noise suppressed can be obtained.

[0070] FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a magnetic head according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 11, in the magnetic head 115 according to the embodiment, the reproducing section 70 also includes the first magnetic element 10A and the second magnetic element 10B. The first magnetic element 10A includes the third shield 73 and the fourth shield 74. The configuration of the magnetic head 115 other than this may be the same as that of the magnetic head 114.

[0071] In the magnetic head 115, the first magnetic element 10A includes the third opposing magnetic layer 13A and the second opposing nonmagnetic layer 32A.

[0072] In the magnetic head 115, the second magnetic element 10B further includes the sixth opposing magnetic layer 16A and the sixth opposing nonmagnetic layer 36A. The sixth opposing magnetic layer 16A is provided between the sixth magnetic layer 16 and the sixth nonmagnetic layer 36 in the first direction D1. The sixth opposing nonmagnetic layer 36A is provided 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 is antiferromagnetically coupled to the sixth magnetic layer 16. The magnetizations of these magnetic layers are more stabilized. For example, noise and the like are more suppressed. Higher characteristics can be obtained.

[0073] The second magnetic element 10B includes the seventh shield 77, the seventh opposing shield 77A, the eighth shield 78, and the eighth opposing shield 78A. The fourth magnetic layer 14 is provided between the seventh shield 77 and the eighth shield 78 in the third direction D3. The fifth magnetic layer 15 is provided 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 provided between the seventh shield 77 and the seventh opposing shield 77A. The eighth intermediate nonmagnetic layer 78n is provided between the eighth shield 78 and the eighth opposing shield 78A. These intermediate nonmagnetic layers contain, for example, Ru. 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.

[0074] Also in the magnetic head 115, for example, by combining and processing the signal obtained from the first magnetic element 10A and the signal obtained from the second magnetic element 10B, multi-valued data may be reproduced.

[0075] In an embodiment, information regarding the direction (orientation) of magnetization may be obtained, for example, by measuring the characteristics (electrical resistance) of the magnetic element or the like with an external magnetization applied to the reproducing unit 70. Information regarding the direction (orientation) of magnetization may be obtained, for example, by a magnetic force microscope or the like. In cases where the element size and the recording area in the magnetic recording medium 80 are small, it may be difficult to obtain accurate information by the above method.

[0076] Hereinafter, some examples of reproduction methods applicable to the embodiments will be described. In the following description, the first region r1 is 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 region r1, the third region r3) is any one of (-, -), (-, +), (+, -), and (+, +). The combination of the recording states of (the second region r2, the fourth region r4) is any one of (-, -), (-, +), (+, -), and (+, +).

[0077] In the first pattern, (the first region r1, the third region r3) is (-, -), and (the second region r2, the fourth region r4) is (-, -). In the second pattern, (the first region r1, the third region r3) is (-, -), and (the second region r2, the fourth region r4) is (-, +). In the third pattern, (the first region r1, the third region r3) is (-, -), and (the second region r2, the fourth region r4) is (+, -). In the fourth pattern, (the first region r1, the third region r3) is (-, -), and (the second region r2, the fourth region r4) is (+, +).

[0078] In the fifth pattern, (the first region r1, the third region r3) is (-, +), and (the second region r2, the fourth region r4) is (-,-). In the sixth pattern, (the first region r1, the third region r3) is (-, +), and (the second region r2, the fourth region r4) is (-, +). In the seventh pattern, (the first region r1, the third region r3) is (-, +), and (the second region r2, the fourth region r4) is (+,-). In the eighth pattern, (the first region r1, the third region r3) is (-, +), and (the second region r2, the fourth region r4) is (+,+).

[0079] In the ninth pattern, (the first region r1, the third region r3) is (+,-), and (the second region r2, the fourth region r4) is (-,-). In the tenth pattern, (the first region r1, the third region r3) is (+,-), and (the second region r2, the fourth region r4) is (-, +). In the eleventh pattern, (the first region r1, the third region r3) is (+,-), and (the second region r2, the fourth region r4) is (+,-). In the twelfth pattern, (the first region r1, the third region r3) is (+,-), and (the second region r2, the fourth region r4) is (+,+).

[0080] In the thirteenth pattern, (the first region r1, the third region r3) is (+,+), and (the second region r2, the fourth region r4) is (-,-). In the fourteenth pattern, (the first region r1, the third region r3) is (+,+), and (the second region r2, the fourth region r4) is (-, +). In the fifteenth pattern, (the first region r1, the third region r3) is (+,+), and (the second region r2, the fourth region r4) is (+,-). In the sixteenth pattern, (the first region r1, the third region r3) is (+,+), and (the second region r2, the fourth region r4) is (+,+).

[0081] In the first playback method for the second magnetic element 10B, 5-value information is applied. In the third playback method, for example, the following configuration may be applied. In the first pattern, the output is 0 and corresponds to the code "0". In the second pattern, the output is 0.5 and corresponds to the code "0.5". In the third pattern, the output is 0.5 and corresponds to the code "0.5". In the fourth pattern, the output is 1 and corresponds to the code "1". In the fifth pattern, the output is -0.5 and corresponds to the code "-0.5". In the sixth pattern, the output is 0 and corresponds to the code "0". In the seventh pattern, the output is 0 and corresponds to the code "0". In the eighth pattern, the output is 0.5 and corresponds to the code "0.5". In the ninth pattern, the output is -0.5 and corresponds to the code "-0.5". In the tenth pattern, the output is 0 and corresponds to the code "0". In the eleventh pattern, the output is 0 and corresponds to the code "0". In the twelfth pattern, the output is 0.5 and corresponds to the code "0.5". In the thirteenth pattern, the output is -1 and corresponds to the code "-1". In the fourteenth pattern, the output is -0.5 and corresponds to the code "-0.5". In the fifteenth pattern, the output is -0.5 and corresponds to the code "-0.5". In the sixteenth pattern, the output is 0 and corresponds to the code "0".

[0082] In the second playback method for the first magnetic element 10A, 5-value information is applied. In the fourth playback method, for example, the following configuration may be applied. In the first pattern, the output is 0 and corresponds to the code "0". In the second pattern, the output is 0.5 and corresponds to the sign of "0.5". In the third pattern, the output is -0.5 and corresponds to the sign of "-0.5". In the fourth pattern, the output is 0 and corresponds to the sign of "0". In the fifth pattern, the output is -0.5 and corresponds to the sign of "-0.5". In the sixth pattern, the output is 0 and corresponds to the sign of "0". In the seventh pattern, the output is -1 and corresponds to the sign of "-1". In the eighth pattern, the output is -0.5 and corresponds to the sign of "-0.5". In the ninth pattern, the output is 0.5 and corresponds to the sign of "0.5". In the tenth pattern, the output is 1 and corresponds to the sign of "1". In the eleventh pattern, the output is 0 and corresponds to the sign of "0". In the twelfth pattern, the output is 0.5 and corresponds to the sign of "0.5". In the thirteenth pattern, the output is 0 and corresponds to the sign of "0". In the fourteenth pattern, the output is 0.5 and corresponds to the sign of "0.5". In the fifteenth pattern, the output is -0.5 and corresponds to the sign of "-0.5". In the sixteenth pattern, the output is 0 and corresponds to the sign of "0".

[0083] The signal (information) obtained by the above first playback method and the signal (information) obtained by the above second playback method may be combined. Playback may be performed according to the result of the combination. In an embodiment, a playback method with six or more values may be applied.

[0084] (Second Embodiment) The magnetic recording device 150 (see FIGS. 12 and 14) according to the second embodiment 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 facing surface 10F. The reproducing unit 70 can reproduce the information recorded on the magnetic recording medium 80.

[0085] The magnetic recording device 150 is configured to perform operations connected with respect to FIGS. 4(a) to 4(d), for example. In the magnetic recording device 150, a first operating state OP1 is formed. In the magnetic recording device 150, at least one of a first state ST1, a second state ST2, a third state ST3, and a fourth state ST4 is formed. A magnetic recording device capable of improving characteristics can be provided.

[0086] FIG. 12 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a magnetic head and a magnetic recording device according to the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 12, the magnetic head 110 according to the embodiment includes a reproducing 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 by the recording unit 90 of the magnetic head 110. The information recorded on the magnetic recording medium 80 is reproduced by the reproducing unit 70.

[0087] 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 the recording unit 90. The recording unit 90 includes, for example, a first magnetic pole 91 and a second magnetic pole 92. The first magnetic pole 91 is, for example, a main magnetic pole. The second magnetic pole 92 is, for example, a trailing shield. The recording unit 90 may include a recording 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.

[0088] As shown in FIG. 12, the magnetic recording medium 80 moves relative to the magnetic head 110 in the direction of the medium moving direction 85. Information corresponding to the magnetization 83 of the magnetic recording layer 81 is controlled at an arbitrary position by the magnetic head 110. Information corresponding to the magnetization 83 of the magnetic recording layer 81 is reproduced at an arbitrary position by the magnetic head 110.

[0089] The X-axis direction corresponds to, for example, the down-track direction. The Y-axis direction corresponds to, for example, the cross-track direction. The Z-axis direction corresponds to, for example, the height direction.

[0090] FIG. 13 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a part of the magnetic recording apparatus according to the embodiment. FIG. 13 illustrates a head slider. 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 moves relative to the magnetic recording medium while floating or contacting on the magnetic recording medium.

[0091] 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. Thereby, the magnetic head 110 moves relative to the magnetic recording medium while floating or contacting on the magnetic recording medium.

[0092] FIG. 14 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the magnetic recording apparatus according to the embodiment. FIGS. 15(a) and 15(b) are schematic perspective views illustrating a part of the magnetic recording apparatus according to the embodiment. The magnetic recording device may be a magnetic recording and reproducing device. As shown in FIG. 14, in the magnetic recording device 150 according to the embodiment, a rotary actuator is used. 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 device 150 according to the present embodiment may include a plurality of recording medium disks 180. The magnetic recording device 150 may include a recording medium 181. The recording medium 181 is, for example, an SSD (Solid State Drive). For example, a nonvolatile memory such as a flash memory is used for the recording medium 181. For example, the magnetic recording device 150 may be a hybrid HDD (Hard Disk Drive).

[0093] The head slider 159 records and reproduces information to be recorded on the recording medium disk 180. The head slider 159 is provided at the tip of the thin-film suspension 154. A magnetic head according to the embodiment is provided near the tip of the head slider 159.

[0094] When the recording medium disk 180 rotates, the pressing pressure 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 flying height. In the embodiment, the head slider 159 may be in contact with the recording medium disk 180. For example, a contact start-stop type may be applied.

[0095] The suspension 154 is connected to one end of an arm 155 (e.g., an actuator arm). The arm 155 has, for example, a bobbin portion. The bobbin portion holds a drive coil. A voice coil motor 156 is provided at the other end of the arm 155. The voice coil motor 156 is a type of linear motor. The voice coil motor 156 includes, for example, a drive coil and a magnetic circuit. The drive coil is wound around the bobbin portion of the arm 155. The magnetic circuit includes a permanent magnet and an opposing yoke. The drive coil is provided between the permanent magnet and the opposing yoke. The suspension 154 has one end and the other end. The magnetic head is provided at one end of the suspension 154. The arm 155 is connected to the other end of the suspension 154.

[0096] The arm 155 is held by ball bearings. The ball bearings are provided at two locations, above and below, of a bearing portion 157. The arm 155 can rotate and slide by the voice coil motor 156. The magnetic head can move to an arbitrary position on a recording medium disk 180.

[0097] FIG. 15(a) illustrates a partial configuration of a magnetic recording apparatus and is an enlarged perspective view of a head stack assembly 160. FIG. 15(b) is a perspective view illustrating a magnetic head assembly (head gimbal assembly: HGA) 158 that is part of the head stack assembly 160.

[0098] As shown in FIG. 15(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 a coil 162 of the voice coil motor 156.

[0099] As shown in FIG. 15(b), the head gimbal assembly 158 has an arm 155 extending from a bearing portion 157 and a suspension 154 extending from the arm 155.

[0100] A head slider 159 is provided at the tip of the suspension 154. A magnetic head according to the embodiment is provided on the head slider 159.

[0101] 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.

[0102] The suspension 154 has, for example, a lead wire (not shown) for signal recording and reproduction. The suspension 154 may have, for example, a lead wire (not shown) for a heater for floating height adjustment. The suspension 154 may have a lead wire (not shown) for an oscillation element or the like. These lead wires and a plurality of electrodes provided on the magnetic head are electrically connected.

[0103] In the magnetic recording device 150, a signal processing unit 190 is provided. The signal processing unit 190 records and reproduces signals on the magnetic recording medium using the magnetic head. 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.

[0104] 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 relatively moves the magnetic recording medium and the magnetic head in a state where they are separated or in contact with each other. The position control part aligns the magnetic head with a predetermined recording position on the magnetic recording medium. The signal processing part records and reproduces signals on the magnetic recording medium using the magnetic head.

[0105] For example, as the above magnetic recording medium, a recording medium disk 180 is used. The above movable part includes, for example, a head slider 159. The above position control part includes, for example, a head gimbal assembly 158.

[0106] The embodiment may include the following technical solutions. (Technical solution 1) A reproducing part including a medium facing surface is provided, The reproducing part includes a first magnetic element, and the first magnetic element a first magnetic layer, a second magnetic layer, and a third magnetic layer, wherein in a first direction along the medium facing surface, the first magnetic layer is the third magnetic layer provided between the third magnetic layer and the second magnetic layer, including 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 direction of the second component is opposite to the direction 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, a magnetic head.

[0107] (Technical solution 2) The magnetic head according to Technical solution 1, wherein the second magnetic layer is antiferromagnetically coupled to the first magnetic layer.

[0108] (Technical solution 3) The first magnetic element further includes a first non-magnetic layer provided between the first magnetic layer and the second magnetic layer, 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 the first non-magnetic layer 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 the thickness of the first non-magnetic layer is 0.3 nm or more and 0.8 nm or less. The magnetic head according to Technical Proposal 1 or 2.

[0109] (Technical Proposal 4) The first magnetic element further includes a second non-magnetic layer provided between the third magnetic layer and the first magnetic layer. The magnetic head according to Technical Proposal 3.

[0110] (Technical Proposal 5) The second non-magnetic layer contains at least one selected from the group consisting of MgO, Al2O3, Cu, and Ag. The magnetic head according to Technical Proposal 4.

[0111] (Technical Proposal 6) 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. The magnetic head according to Technical Proposal 4 or 5.

[0112] (Technical Proposal 7) The first magnetic element further includes a first side magnetic layer and a second side magnetic layer. 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. 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. The first side magnetization of the first side magnetic layer includes a first side component along the second direction. The second side magnetization of the second side magnetic layer includes a second side component along the second direction. The direction of the second side component is opposite to the direction of the first side component. The second side magnetic layer is antiferromagnetically coupled with the first side magnetic layer. The magnetic head according to any one of Technical Proposals 1 to 6.

[0113] (Technical Proposal 8) The reproducing section further includes a first shield and a second shield. The first magnetic element is provided between the first shield and the second shield in the first direction. The first shield magnetization of the first shield has the direction of the third component. The second shield magnetization of the second shield has the direction of the third component. The magnetic head according to any one of Technical Solutions 1 to 7.

[0114] (Technical Solution 9) The reproduction unit further includes a third shield and a fourth shield. The first magnetic element is provided between the third shield and the fourth shield in the third direction. The third shield magnetization of the third shield has the direction of the third component. The fourth shield magnetization of the fourth shield has the direction of the third component. The magnetic head according to Technical Solution 8.

[0115] (Technical Solution 10) At least one of the first magnetic layer and the second magnetic layer includes at least one selected from the group consisting of Fe, Ni, and Co. The third magnetic layer includes at least one selected from the group consisting of Fe, Ni, and Co. The magnetic head according to any one of Technical Solutions 1 to 9.

[0116] (Technical Solution 11) At least one of the first magnetic layer and the second magnetic layer includes at least one selected from the group consisting of Fe, Ni, and Co. The third magnetic layer includes at least one selected from the group consisting of Fe, Ni, and Co. At least one of the first side magnetic layer and the second side magnetic layer includes at least one selected from the group consisting of Fe, Ni, and Co. The magnetic head according to Technical Solution 7.

[0117] (Technical Solution 12) The first magnetic element further includes a first additional magnetic layer. The third magnetic layer is provided between the first additional magnetic layer and the first magnetic layer in the first direction. The first additional magnetic layer includes IrMn, and is the magnetic head according to any one of Technical Solutions 1 to 11.

[0118] (Technical Solution 13) The first magnetic element further includes a third non-magnetic layer and a fourth non-magnetic layer. The third non-magnetic layer is provided between the first shield and the third magnetic layer in the first direction. The fourth non-magnetic layer is provided between the second magnetic layer and the second shield in the first direction, and is the magnetic head according to Technical Solution 8 or 9.

[0119] (Technical Solution 14) The reproducing section further includes a second magnetic element. The direction from the first magnetic element to the second magnetic element includes a component in the first direction. The second magnetic element includes a fourth magnetic layer, a fifth magnetic layer, a sixth magnetic layer, and in the first direction, the fourth magnetic layer is provided between the sixth magnetic layer and the fifth magnetic layer. and the magnetization of the fourth magnetic layer of the fourth magnetic layer includes a fourth component along the third direction. the magnetization of the fifth magnetic layer of the fifth magnetic layer includes a fifth component along the third direction. the direction of the fifth component is opposite to the direction of the fourth component. the magnetization of the sixth magnetic layer of the sixth magnetic layer includes a sixth component along the second direction, and is the magnetic head according to any one of Technical Solutions 1 to 13.

[0120] (Technical Solution 15) The second magnetic element further includes a fifth non-magnetic layer provided between the fourth magnetic layer and the fifth magnetic layer. The fifth non-magnetic layer satisfies one of the third condition and the 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 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. The magnetic head according to Technical Proposal 14.

[0121] (Technical Proposal 16) 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 the group consisting of MgO, Al2O3, Cu, and Ag. The magnetic head according to Technical Proposal 15.

[0122] (Technical Proposal 17) The thickness of the fifth non-magnetic layer is thinner than the thickness of the sixth non-magnetic layer in the first direction. The magnetic head according to Technical Proposal 16.

[0123] (Technical Proposal 18) The magnetic head according to any one of Technical Proposals 1 to 17, A magnetic recording medium facing the medium-facing surface, Comprising: The reproducing unit can reproduce information recorded on the magnetic recording medium. A magnetic recording apparatus.

[0124] (Technical Proposal 19) 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 playback unit is configured to output signals according to the magnetization states of the first region, the second region, the third region, and the fourth region, and is the magnetic recording apparatus according to Technical Proposal 18.

[0125] (Technical Proposal 20) 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, and is the magnetic recording apparatus according to Technical Proposal 19.

[0126] According to the embodiment, a magnetic head and a magnetic recording apparatus capable of improving characteristics can be provided.

[0127] In this specification, "vertical" and "parallel" include not only strict vertical and strict parallel, but also, for example, variations in the manufacturing process, and it is sufficient that they are substantially vertical and substantially parallel.

[0128] 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, magnetic layer, intermediate layer, and terminal included in the magnetic head and the magnetic recording apparatus, the present invention can be similarly implemented by appropriately selecting from the range known to those skilled in the art, and as long as the same effects can be obtained, it is included in the scope of the present invention.

[0129] Combinations of any two or more elements of each specific example within a technically possible range are also included in the scope of the present invention as long as they include the gist of the present invention.

[0130] In addition, based on the magnetic head and the magnetic recording apparatus described above as embodiments of the present invention, all magnetic heads and magnetic recording apparatuses that can be appropriately designed and modified by those skilled in the art also belong to the scope of the present invention as long as they include the gist of the present invention.

[0131] In addition, within the scope of the idea of the present invention, those skilled in the art can conceive of various modifications and variations, and it is understood that those modifications and variations also belong to the scope of the present invention.

[0132] Although some embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are also included in the invention described in the claims and its equivalent scope.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0133] 10A, 10B: First and second magnetic elements, 10E: Regenerator, 10F: Medium facing surface, 10i: First insulating member, 10j: Insulating layer, 11 - 16: First - sixth magnetic layers, 11A, 12A: First and second additional magnetic layers, 13A: Third opposing magnetic layer, 13AM: Third opposing magnetic layer magnetization, 16A: Sixth opposing magnetic layer, 16AM: Sixth opposing magnetic layer magnetization, 11M - 16M: First - sixth magnetic layer magnetizations, 31 - 38: First - eighth non - magnetic layers, 32A: Second opposing non - magnetic layer, 36A: Sixth opposing non - magnetic layer, 41, 42: First and second side magnetic layers, 41M, 42M: First and second side magnetizations, 49: Side non - magnetic layer, 70: Reproduction section, 71 - 78: First - eighth shields, 77A, 78A: Seventh and eighth opposing shields, 71M - 76M: First - sixth shield magnetizations, 77n, 78n: Seventh and eighth intermediate non - magnetic layers, 80: Magnetic recording medium, 81: Magnetic recording layer, 82: Medium substrate, 83: Magnetization, 85: Medium moving 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 - third directions, H1, H2: First and second magnetic fields, OP1: First operating state, ST1 - ST4: First - fourth states, r1 - r4: First - fourth regions, s1, s2: First and second recording states, t11 - t13: First - third magnetic layer thicknesses, t31 - t36: First - sixth non - magnetic layer thicknesses, w11, w12: First and second magnetic layer lengths, w41, w42: First and second side magnetic layer lengths

Claims

1. comprising a reproducing unit including a medium-facing surface, wherein the reproducing unit includes a first magnetic element, and the first magnetic element includes: a first magnetic layer, a second magnetic layer, a third magnetic layer, wherein in a first direction along the medium-facing surface, the first magnetic layer is provided between the third magnetic layer and the second magnetic layer, the third magnetic layer, including, a first magnetic layer magnetization of the first magnetic layer includes a first component along a second direction intersecting the medium-facing surface, a second magnetic layer magnetization of the second magnetic layer includes a second component along the second direction, the direction of the second component is opposite to the direction 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, a magnetic head.

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

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

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

5. The second non-magnetic layer is at least one selected from the group consisting of MgO, Al ２ O ３ , Cu, and Ag, and the magnetic head according to claim 4.

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

7. The reproducing unit further includes a second magnetic element, a direction from the first magnetic element to the second magnetic element includes a component in the first direction, the second magnetic element includes: a fourth magnetic layer, a fifth magnetic layer, a sixth magnetic layer, including, in the first direction, the fourth magnetic layer is provided between the sixth magnetic layer and the fifth magnetic layer, including, a fourth magnetic layer magnetization of the fourth magnetic layer includes a fourth component along the third direction, a fifth magnetic layer magnetization of the fifth magnetic layer includes a fifth component along the third direction, the direction of the fifth component is opposite to the direction of the fourth component, The magnetization of the sixth magnetic layer of the sixth magnetic layer includes a sixth component along the second direction, and the magnetic head according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The second magnetic element further includes a fifth non-magnetic layer provided between the fourth magnetic layer and the fifth magnetic layer. 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 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. The magnetic head according to claim 7.

9. 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 is at least one selected from the group consisting of MgO, Al ２ O ３ , Cu, and Ag, and the magnetic head according to claim 8.

10. The magnetic head according to claim 1, A magnetic recording medium facing the medium-facing surface, Comprising, The reproducing unit can reproduce information recorded on the magnetic recording medium. 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 a signal according to the magnetization state of each of the first region, the second region, the third region, and the fourth region. A magnetic recording apparatus.

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