This semester I will continue to do research in the Data Storage Systems Centre under the guidance of Professor Bain. I will continue the work of last semester on the magnetic tape test stand. The goals for the semester that we determined together are as follows:
Demonstrate standard transfer curves for a inductive head. Specifically, I will be plotting the read back voltage against the write current and the frequency of the written signal. This will require that I install and test new heads and media to the system and refine the user interface after these changes have been made.
Replace the inductive head with a magnetoresistive (MR) head and re-measure the same transfer curves for this case. Changes/additions to the user interface and the documentation will be made as necessary.
Extensions to the capabilities of the instrument by adding speed and density functionality. This will involve installing a tachometer on the drum.
Perform and record various measurements on experimental tapes of interest.
I will be meeting with professor Bain on a weekly basis to seek help and to ensure progress is being made. I will also produce a 10-20 page report at the end of the semester which summarizes the developments made over the semester and the results of measurements and calibrations. I will also participate in the DSSC symposium in March where I will present this device and its features. This will involve collaboration with various DSSC sponsors. Finally, this work will be presented at the Meeting of the Minds.
