Current-perpendicular-to-the-plane structure magnetoresistive element and head slider including the same

摘要

A magnetoresistive film extends along a datum plane intersecting with a medium-opposed surface. A non-magnetic body extends along the datum plane at a location adjacent the magneto resistive film. A so-called magnetic domain controlling films are omitted. The inventors have found that a sufficient magnetization can be established in a predetermined direction along the medium-opposed surface in the CPP structure magnetoresistive element based on the current magnetic field. As long as the quantity of the heat generated, namely of the electric power is maintained constant, the magnetic field of a sufficient intensity can be established in the free magnetic layer. The direction of the magnetization can easily be controlled in a facilitated manner.