Abstract
In recent years, an annual rate of an area density increase was keeping 60% in HDD systems approaching more than 20 Gbits/in^2 in commercial base. Such a high-area density is supported by progresses not only of BPI (Bits Per Inch), but also of TPI (Tracks Per Inch). The higher area density than present necessitates a precise positioning mechanism with a high motion speed. In order to realize such a mechanism with stable following and seeking motion, a linear tracking system was tested. We have designed a new liner air bearing system of ideal non-frictional condition. The liner air bearing has also large stiffness toward the seek direction. This system shows higher resonance frequency than that of the rotary type. This system could realize exact track following and the precisely positioning for the future HDD systems.
