Force microscopy of magnetization patterns in longitudinal recording media

A force microscope with a magnetic tip has been used to examine magnetization patterns in a thin-film cobalt-alloy sample similar to that used in magnetic disk recording. Longitudinal magnetic bits were written on discrete tracks with a recording head flown over the surface of the sample. After minimal sample preparation, images were obtained showing strong magnetic contrast. Model calculations for the expected image contrast were found to be in excellent qualitative agreement with experimental results. By using a constant height imaging mode, enhanced contrast for fine detail was obtained.