Adjacent track readers

Abstract

Aspects include readers for magnetic storage media. Each reader is operable to read multiple tracks from the storage media simultaneously by using a plurality of active regions, each active region for reading a different track. The active regions may be disposed in rows of columns, and between rows, each active region in a row may be separated from other active regions in that row to prevent interference between those active regions. Active regions of different rows may be offset from each other such that no active region overlaps with another active region over the same data track. Active regions may share shielding and/or sense current conductors. Active regions may comprise AMR, CIP GMR, CPP GMR, including spin valve and tunneling varieties of flux sensors. Multiple active regions in a row may be defined from a single MR element by spaced apart voltage tabs. Readers may be integrally fabricated in layers.