University of California

Rabee Ikkawi

Nissim Amos

Sakhrat Khizroev

Robert Cort Haddon

Alexander A Balandin

Robert H Fernandez

Roman Chomko

High density-information storage is accomplished by the use of novel, near-field optical devices in combination with high-density storage media. The near-field optical devices are configured to focus light to nanoscale spot sizes and may employ negative index of refraction materials for focusing. The high-density storage media may include protein-based storage media, such as photochromic proteins, and high-coercivity magnetic storage media. Light energy provided the optical devices may enable exposed protein molecules to transition between stable molecular states that may be distinguished on the basis of their respective spectral maxima. Light energy provided by the optical device may also be used to heat localized regions of magnetic media to a selected temperature, effecting local changes in coercivity of the magnetic media. Information may be written to the magnetic storage media within this localized region using a magnetic recording device, while leaving the magnetic state of the remaining portion of the magnetic storage media unchanged.

Near field optical recording system having negative index of refraction structure

Magnetic Force Microscopy (MFM) probe tips that provide enhanced spatial resolution and methods of manufacture are provided. In one aspect, two or more magnetically-decoupled layers may be deposited on an AFM probe in order to create an active magnetic region at about the apex of the probe tip with dimensions less than about 10 nanometers. In another aspect, nanoscale patterning techniques may be employed to fabricate probe tips that possess plateau features. These plateau features may serve as substrates for the deposition of magnetic films having properties similar to magnetic recording media. Machining techniques, such as Focused Ion Beam (FIB) may be further employed to reduce the size of the magnetic materials deposited upon the substrate. Beneficially, because the plateaus of the substrate are substantially flat and of known geometry, and the magnetic properties of magnetic films deposited on flat surfaces are similar to those deposited upon the plateau, the magnetization of the MFM probe tips may be determined to high accuracy. In this manner, fine control over the magnetic properties of MFM probe tips may be achieved, providing enhanced MFM resolution.

Probes for enhanced magnetic force microscopy resolution

Growing community of inventors

Pembroke Pines, FL, United States of America

Rabee Ikkawi