A hybrid magnetic-optical head apparatus wherein one or more solid state lasers, magnetic field biasing elements, magnetic sensing elements, and an aerodynamically shaped slider comprise a single integrated, monolithic device fabricated from the same base semiconductor material into an optical head. A connector housing 1 comprises a plurality of terminal-receiving chambers 20 and a plurality of marks 21. A method of storing data in a MLC memory device, reading data from the MLC memory device, or storing data in and reading data from the MLC memory device may include: encoding data using a first encoding scheme to generate an outer encoded bit stream; and applying a program pulse to a MLC memory cell of the MLC memory device to write the data in the MLC memory cell. The method then comprises floating the dummy bit line, activating a word line associated with the memory cell, and pulsing the plate line. A location estimation unit estimates a current location of the first user using time required by the first user corresponding to the movement route information. After transmission through optical fiber, the optical signals are demodulated optically and the original data are recovered by the balanced detectors with direct detection.