Abstract
Understanding the recording physics of bit-patterned media recording (PMR), which is considered to be one of the primary candidates for next generation magnetic data storage solutions, is critical for efficient implementation of the technology. This work examines playback characteristics of magneto-resistive (MR) heads applied to PMR. The reciprocity principle and the analytical model for stray fields are used. Reciprocity principle allows efficient evaluation of playback signals for specific playback head designs. Direct evaluation of stray fields enables analysis of general trends and determining resolution limits for given patterned medium parameters independent of playback head design.