A hybrid magnetic-optical head apparatus wherein one or more solid state
lasers, magnetic field biasing elements, magnetic sensing elements, and an
aerodynamically shaped slider comprise a single integrated, monolithic
device fabricated from the same base semiconductor material into an
optical head. The monolithic optical head can be quickly and easily
attached to the read arm of an optical read/write device without requiring
attachment of separate laser and magnetic elements, and without
micropositioning or use of optical microscopy for positioning the lasers
or magnetic elements. The hybrid magnetic-optical head apparatus includes
a magnetic-optical function region having a semiconductor laser and at
least one magnetic element. Preferably, the magnetic-optical function
region of the substrate includes a magnetic field biasing element
associated with the semiconductor laser, as well as a magnetic sensing
element. The slider portion of the magnetic optical head preferably
includes an aerodynamically shaped air cavity as well as an air bearing
surface, with the emission face of the laser preferably is substantially
co-planar with the air bearing surface. The magnetic-optical function
region may be configured for magnetically assisted thermal recording
wherein writing is carried out primarily by laser power modulation to
selectively heat portions of a medium, together with assistance of an
applied magnetic field to establish a preferred direction of magnetization
pattern in the medium. The magnetic-optical function region may
alternatively be configured for thermally assisted magnetic writing
wherein writing is carried out primarily by modulation of magnetic field,
together with assistance of a laser which heats the medium to reduce the
medium coercivity and thereby assist in the magnetic recording.
