HDD Heads: TDK reports successfully shipped prototype HDD-Heads with next generation recording technology, MAS-MAMR

TDK Corporation (TSE:6762) announces that it has successfully shipped prototype heads with next generation recording technology, MAS-MAMR, which is co-developed with Toshiba Corporate R&D Center and Toshiba Electric Devices & Storage Corporation. Showa Denko K.K. (SDK) produced the media for this technology in a three-way collaboration geared towards advancing HDD capacity in the marketplace.

TDK already introduced the industry’s first Spin Torque element based recording technology into Toshiba’s 18TB HDD, which started production in 2021. MAS-MAMR would constitute the 2nd generation Spin Torque assisted head for the recording industry, which is aimed for more than 24 TB HDD. It utilizes the ferromagnetic coupled resonance effect from twin Spin Torque element layers inside the write head acting on the media recording layer, referred to as the MAS effect. In collaboration with Toshiba and SDK, TDK has demonstrated that the write-ability can be significantly improved. TDK has been studying the optimal twin element structure that can be fitted into the write gap for MAS-MAMR. It is expected that this technology can be extended up to 30TB HDDs.

Glossary

MAMR: Microwave Assisted Magnetic Recording
MAS-MAMR: Microwave Assisted Switching Microwave Assisted Magnetic Recording
Spin Torque element: Magnetic Layer that responds to spin polarized current

Main applications

Hard Disc Drive

Main features and benefits

Improved media write-ability at high recording densities

About TDK Corporation

TDK Corporation is a world leader in electronic solutions for the smart society based in Tokyo, Japan. Built on a foundation of material sciences mastery, TDK welcomes societal transformation by resolutely remaining at the forefront of technological evolution and deliberately “Attracting Tomorrow.” It was established in 1935 to commercialize ferrite, a key material in electronic and magnetic products. TDK's comprehensive, innovation-driven portfolio features passive components such as ceramic, aluminum electrolytic and film capacitors, as well as magnetics, high-frequency, and piezo and protection devices. The product spectrum also includes sensors and sensor systems such as temperature and pressure, magnetic, and MEMS sensors. In addition, TDK provides power supplies and energy devices, magnetic heads and more. These products are marketed under the product brands TDK, EPCOS, InvenSense, Micronas, Tronics and TDK-Lambda. TDK focuses on demanding markets in automotive, industrial and consumer electronics, and information and communication technology. The company has a network of design and manufacturing locations and sales offices in Asia, Europe, and in North and South America. In fiscal 2021, TDK posted total sales of USD 13.3 billion and employed about 129,000 people worldwide.