The maximum number of bits per square inch that is commercially feasible on a magnetic storage device. As the magnetic bits get smaller, at some point they no longer hold their charge. Thermal fluctuations reduce the signal strength and render the bits unstable.
However, this ultimate areal density keeps changing as researchers find new techniques for recording and sensing the bit. Years ago the limit was thought to be 20 gigabits per square inch. Today, the limit is several hundred gigabits per square inch, and more than a terabit is expected in the years to come. See areal density, magnetoresistance and AFC.
However, this ultimate areal density keeps changing as researchers find new techniques for recording and sensing the bit. Years ago the limit was thought to be 20 gigabits per square inch. Today, the limit is several hundred gigabits per square inch, and more than a terabit is expected in the years to come. See areal density, magnetoresistance and AFC.
 | Reproduced with permission from Computer Desktop Encyclopedia. Copyright (c) 1981-2008 The Computer Language Company Inc. All rights reserved. |
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