GRADED SIDE SHIELD GAP READER

摘要

Embodiments of the present invention generally include magnetoresistive heads, such as read heads, having a sensor structure and side shields disposed adjacent to the sensor structure. The distance between the side shields and the sensor structure increase in a direction from an ABS in the off-track direction. The magnetoresistive heads may include tapered surfaces on the side shields or sensor structure, or may include stepped surfaces on the side shields or sensor structure.

主权项

1. A magnetoresistive head, comprising:
a sensor structure; a first side shield disposed on a first side of the sensor structure; a second side shield disposed on a second side of the sensor structure; wherein the first side shield is spaced from the sensor structure by a first distance at an air bearing surface (ABS) and a second distance at a location spaced from the air bearing surface, wherein the second distance is greater than the first distance; and wherein the distance between the first side shield and the sensor structure tapers from the ABS to the location spaced from the air bearing surface.