In addition to experimental evaluation of media samples, IBM has expertise in numerical simulation as well as analytical modeling of future advanced tape media structures. Such modeling has been invaluable in developing strong insights into the interaction between head and tape, which has led to improved media. In addition, IBM is developing a world-class facility for micromagnetic modeling using the Almaden BlueGene supercomputer. This unprecedented facility will permit realistic simulations of write and read performance of new prototype media.

Example of micromagnetic modeling results. The top part of the figure shows a magnetization transition as viewed through the depth of the media. The bottom part of the figure shows the simulated readback signal.