Two leg, side by side, 0.6 to 1.0 micron wide, high output, vertical, GMR, head sensors

Experimental and analytical studies have been carried out on 0.6 to 1.0 micron wide, high output, vertical, GMR, head sensors with segments with a grounding bearing surface. The two separate segments double the amount of sensor length which is active, but increase the width of the sensor at the air bearing surface. Two types were examined; one variety of sensor provided a differential signal between the two segments and the other provided a common signal. The outputs of shielded and unshielded sensors were measured while operating with 2 to 5 mA of sense current per micron of width. The two leg sensor structures were found capable of providing peak to peak outputs of over 3 mV in read heads with a non-uniform gap.