This paper presents the different processing parameters of ZrN/hydroxyapatite nanocomposite coatings prepared by RF magnetron sputtering method. ZrN/hydroxyapatite nanocomposite coatings have the combined properties such as the high hardness of ZrN with the inherent bioactive nature of hydroxyapatite. Detailed characterization was carried out using different methods like XRD, TEM, AFM etc., to analyze the structural and surface properties. Roughness of the coating increased with increasing substrate temperature. Effect of these processing parameters on the mechanical reliability was carried out by nanoindentation and wear test analysis. Higher substrate temperature and longer deposition time provides higher hardness and modulus and better wear resistance. Hence these kinds of nanocomposite coatings may be used as a good alternative coating materials or bio-structural materials for future biomedical applications. © 2012 American Scientific Publishers. All rights reserved.