The Physics of Magnetic Recording

A review of the essential elements of magnetic recording is presented. Emphasis is placed on physical processes that occur in the writing of a data pattern onto magnetic media. The discussion here is focused on thin metallic films that are currently in use in high density disk recording. Nonetheless, concepts are presented in a fundamental manner so that applications to different materials or recording systems can easily be generalized. It is assumed that the reader has an introductory acquaintance with magnetism and magnetic materials [e.g. 1].