A read/write head for a magnetic tape includes an elongated chip assembly and
a
tape running surface formed in the longitudinal direction of the chip assembly.
A pair of substantially spaced parallel read/write gap lines for supporting read/write
elements extend longitudinally along the tape running surface of the chip assembly.
Also, at least one groove is formed on the tape running surface on both sides of
each of the read/write gap lines and extends substantially parallel to the read/write
gap lines.
