An integral/matrix‐equation technique for the calculation of a magnetic field produced by stationary current in the presence of permeable material is presented. Utilizing this technique, magnetic fields are computed on the basis of a two‐dimensional model for the plated‐wire memory element. This model essentially represents a planar‐memory element since the plated wire is simulated by a slab of permeable material. Numerical results are presented for different permeabilities of the keepers and the simulated wire. These results show quantitatively how the keepers enhance the magnetic field between the current straps, where the information is to be stored, and how they reduce the fringing fields outside. The field enhancement can be interpreted as reduction in current or power for a given field at the center due to the use of keepers. The technique presented is sufficiently simple and efficient to be a useful tool in designing magnetic memories, as well as in determining the effect of mechanical tolerances on their performance.