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Redirected from: pixie dust

Definition: AFC


(1) (Application Foundation Classes) A class library from Microsoft that provides an application framework and graphics, graphical user interface (GUI) and multimedia routines for Java programmers. AFC Enterprise Libraries include support for data access, directory services, transactions and distributed objects. AFC is compatible with AWT and runs in Windows and other JVM environments. See JFC, AWT and IFC.

(2) (AntiFerromagnetic-Coupled) A hard disk technology from IBM that uses a ruthenium layer three atoms thick sandwiched between two magnetic layers. The magnetic layers allow for thinner bits, and the bit above and below are polarized in opposite directions. This technology pushes the superparamagnetic limit once again. The ruthenium layer, which is a precious metal, has been coined "pixie dust" for its magical properties by IBM engineers. See superparamagnetic limit.




AFC Layers
In antiferromagnetic-coupled storage technology, the bits are created in pairs with opposite polarities above and below the ruthenium layer.