Formation and CSS performance of NiP surface textured by argon ion laser

Abstract

Laser-induced microtexture has been produced by using an argon-ion-Iaser-based system to provide low flying height and low suction between the head and the disk for high recording density. Laser bumps with different profiles, such as dome-like type, crater type, double-rim crater type and elliptical type, etc. have been formed because of the precise and flexible control of our system. The mechanisms responsible for the formation of laser bumps are laser induced capillary effects during the laser surface melting and cooling process. The topography of the textured surface is regular and presents excellent CSS performance. © 1998 IEEE.