Multilevel-3D bit patterned magnetic media with 8 signal levels per nanocolumn

PLoS One. 2012;7(7):e40134. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0040134. Epub 2012 Jul 10.

Abstract

This letter presents an experimental study that shows that a 3(rd) physical dimension may be used to further increase information packing density in magnetic storage devices. We demonstrate the feasibility of at least quadrupling the magnetic states of magnetic-based data storage devices by recording and reading information from nanopillars with three magnetically-decoupled layers. Magneto-optical Kerr effect microscopy and magnetic force microscopy analysis show that both continuous (thin film) and patterned triple-stack magnetic media can generate eight magnetically-stable states. This is in comparison to only two states in conventional magnetic recording. Our work further reveals that ferromagnetic interaction between magnetic layers can be reduced by combining Co/Pt and Co/Pd multilayers media. Finally, we are showing for the first time an MFM image of multilevel-3D bit patterned media with 8 discrete signal levels.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Communications Media*
  • Magnetics*
  • Microscopy, Atomic Force
  • Nanostructures / chemistry*
  • Pattern Recognition, Automated*
  • Rotation
  • Signal Processing, Computer-Assisted*