Abstract
The development of IBM thin-film inductive recording heads is traced from 1964, through their first introduction in 1979, to the present. We review a number of innovations in thin-film technology materials and processes associated with this type of head. Design and technology changes made since 1979 have led to the development and implementation of heads in several successful recording systems. We also describe efforts to predict the performance of thin-film inductive heads and to understand and control head instabilities and noise.