Multi-phase overcoats for magnetic discs

A magnetic disc for use in a magnetic disc drive is provided. The magnetic disc includes a recording surface wherein the recording surface includes a dual phase carbon overcoat. The dual phase carbon overcoat includes an amorphous carbon film sputtered on a magnetic layer. A doped amorphous carbon film is sputtered on the amorphous carbon film. The dual phase carbon overcoat has demonstrated improved hardness, reduced stiction and superior corrosion resistance over the prior art. A method of manufacturing the magnetic disc is also provided. The method includes providing a sputtering apparatus having a process chamber, providing a partially manufactured magnetic disc having a magnetic layer thereon, placing the partially manufactured magnetic disc within the process chamber, sputtering an amorphous carbon film on the magnetic layer, and sputtering a doped amorphous carbon film on the amorphous carbon film. The process reduces throughput inefficiencies due to down time cleaning and avoids carbon induced damage to the discs.