Ultra small advanced write transducer and method for making same

Abstract

A magnetoresistive write element having a planar coil layer between a first pole and a second pole. The magnetoresistive write element further includes a buildup insulation layer having an upper surface that is substantially coplanar with an upper surface of the first pole. Further, the planar coil layer is disposed above both the first pole and the buildup insulation layer. A method for forming a magnetoresistive write element includes providing a first pole and covering the first pole with an insulating layer. The insulating layer is then planarized, thereby exposing the first pole and defining a buildup insulation layer. This planarization also results in the formation of a substantially planar upper surface of the buildup insulation layer and a substantially planar upper surface of the first pole. More specifically, the first pole upper surface is substantially coplanar with the buildup insulation layer upper surface. The method also includes forming a write gap material layer above the insulation layer and first pole, and forming a substantially planar coil layer above said write gap material layer. In addition, a second pole is formed above the write gap material layer, with the coil layer thereby disposed between the first pole and the second pole.