  We demonstrate how the configuration and magnitude of a magnetic field,
applied during magnetron sputtering of a NiFe/IrMn bilayer, influence the
magnetic properties of the structure, such as hysteresis loop shape,
coercivity, and exchange bias. Furthermore, we illustrate that it is possible
to create a stepwise hysteresis loop in the sample's region with the highest
field gradient. The found features can be used for future sensor applications.
