A magnetic sensor utilizing a spin tunnel magneto-resistance effect (TMR),
comprising a tunnel insulating film, a first magnetic layer formed on one
of the planes of the tunnel insulating film, a second magnetic layer
formed on the other plane of the tunnel insulating film, a third magnetic
layer containing an anti-ferromagnetic substance for fixing magnetization
of the second magnetic layer, a second insulating film formed on at least
one of the first and third magnetic layers and having an opening in a
predetermined region, a first electrode electrically connected to one of
the first and third magnetic layers only in the opening of the second
insulating film, and a second electrode for causing a current to flow
between the first electrode and itself through at least the first and
second magnetic layers and the first insulating layer.