MFM image of latest generation hard disk (Seagate Momentus 5400.6)

 

We bought a latest generation hard disk (Seagate Momentus 5400.6), wrote it with data, then imaged the platter with our PPMS-AFM in MFM mode. The resulting image resolves each bit written into the hard disk and even the characteristic curvature of the individual bits. Further, structure within the bits can be seen. Line profiles were taken in two directions to show the high resolution of 14 nm. Such high-resolution is unequaled in other commercial MFMs: resolution in MFM must be proved in more than one axis, and the resulting image should display sharp  detail according to the quoted resolution.