Maxtor DIAMONDMAX 92305H3 User Manual

®
DiamondMax 60  
96147H8, 94610H6, 93073H4,  
92305H3, 91536H2  
Part #1478  
All material contained herein Copyright © 2000 Maxtor Corporation.  
MaxFax™ is a trademark of Maxtor Corporation. DiamondMax®, Maxtor®  
and No Quibble Service® are registered trademarks of Maxtor Corporation.  
Other brands or products are trademarks or registered trademarks of their  
respective holders. Contents and specifications subject to change without  
notice. All rights reserved.  
Corporate Headquarters  
510 Cottonwood Drive  
Milpitas, California 95035  
Tel: 408-432-1700  
Fax: 408-432-4510  
Research and Development Center  
2190 Miller Drive  
Longmont, Colorado 80501  
Tel: 303-651-6000  
Fax: 303-678-2165  
Contents  
Section 1Introduction  
Maxtor Corporation  
Products  
1 - 1  
1 - 1  
1 - 1  
1 - 1  
1 - 1  
1 - 2  
1 - 2  
1 - 2  
1 - 2  
Support  
Manual Organization  
Abbreviations  
Conventions  
Key Words  
Numbering  
Signal Conventions  
Section 2ProductDescription  
The DiamondMax® 60  
Product Features  
2 - 2  
2 - 2  
2 - 2  
2 - 2  
2 - 2  
2 - 2  
2 - 2  
2 - 3  
2 - 3  
2 - 3  
2 - 3  
2 - 3  
2 - 4  
2 - 4  
2 - 4  
2 - 4  
2 - 4  
2 - 5  
2 - 5  
2 - 5  
2 - 5  
2 - 5  
2 - 5  
2 - 5  
2 - 6  
2 - 6  
2 - 6  
2 - 6  
2 - 6  
Functional/Interface  
Zone Density Recording  
Read/Write Multiple Mode  
UltraDMA - Mode 4  
Multi-word DMA (EISA Type B) - Mode 2  
Sector Address Translation  
Logical Block Addressing  
Defect Management Zone  
On-the-Fly Hardware Error Correction Code (ECC)  
Software ECC Correction  
Automatic Head Park and Lock Operation  
Cache Management  
Buffer Segmentation  
Read-Ahead Mode  
Automatic Write Reallocation (AWR)  
Write Cache Stacking  
Major HDA Components  
Drive Mechanism  
Rotary Actuator  
Read/Write Electronics  
Read/Write Heads and Media  
Air Filtration System  
Microprocessor  
Subsystem Configuration  
Dual Drive Support  
Cable Select Option  
Jumper Location/Configuration  
Cylinder Limitation  
i
DIAMONDMAX 60 PRODUCT MANUAL  
Section 3ProductSpecifications  
Models and Capacities  
Drive Configuration  
Performance Specifications  
Physical Dimensions  
Power Requirements  
Power Mode Definitions  
Spin-up  
3 - 1  
3 - 1  
3 - 1  
3 - 2  
3 - 3  
3 - 3  
3 - 3  
3 - 3  
3 - 3  
3 - 3  
3 - 3  
3 - 3  
3 - 3  
3 - 3  
3 - 4  
3 - 4  
3 - 4  
3 - 4  
3 - 4  
3 - 4  
3 - 4  
3 - 5  
3 - 5  
3 - 5  
3 - 5  
Seek  
Read/Write  
Idle  
Standby  
Sleep  
EPA Energy Star Compliance  
Environmental Limits  
Shock and Vibration  
Reliability Specifications  
Annual Return Rate  
Quality Acceptance Rate  
Start/Stop Cycles  
Data Reliability  
Component Design Life  
EMC/EMI  
EMC Compliance  
Canadian Emissions Statement  
Safety Regulatory Compliance  
Section 4Handling and Installation  
Hard Drive Handling Precautions  
Electro-Static Discharge (ESD)  
Unpacking and Inspection  
Repacking  
4 - 1  
4 - 1  
4 - 2  
4 - 3  
4 - 3  
4 - 4  
4 - 4  
4 - 4  
4 - 4  
4 - 4  
4 - 4  
4 - 4  
4 - 4  
4 - 4  
4 - 4  
4 - 5  
4 - 5  
4 - 5  
4 - 5  
Physical Installation  
Before You Begin  
Please Read  
Back up. Protect Your Existing Data  
Tools for Installation  
System Requirements  
Operating System Requirements  
Hook up  
Boot the System with MaxBlast Plus Diskette  
Configure the Drive Jumpers  
Installaing 5.25-inch Mounting Brackets  
Install Hard Drive in Device Bay  
Attach Interface and Power Cables  
Start up  
Set up  
ii  
DIAMONDMAX 60 PRODUCT MANUAL  
Section 5AT Interface Description  
Interface Connector  
Pin Description Summary  
Pin Description Table  
PIO Timing  
5 - 1  
5 - 1  
5 - 2  
5 - 3  
5 - 4  
5 - 5  
DMA Timing  
Ultra DMA Timing Parameters  
Section 6Host Software Interface  
Task File Registers  
6 - 1  
6 - 1  
6 - 1  
6 - 1  
6 - 2  
6 - 2  
6 - 2  
6 - 2  
6 - 2  
6 - 3  
6 - 3  
6 - 3  
6 - 3  
6 - 3  
6 - 3  
6 - 3  
6 - 3  
6 - 4  
6 - 5  
6 - 5  
6 - 5  
6 - 5  
6 - 6  
Data Register  
Error Register  
Features Register  
Sector Count Register  
Sector Number Register  
Cylinder Number Registers  
Device/Head Register  
Status Register  
Command Register  
Read Commands  
Write Commands  
Mode Set/Check Commands  
Power Mode Commands  
Initialization Commands  
Seek, Format, and Diagnostic Commands  
S.M.A.R.T. Commands  
Summary  
Control Diagnostic Registers  
Alternate Status Register  
Device Control Register  
Digital Input Register  
Reset and Interrupt Handling  
Section7—InterfaceCommands  
Command Summary  
Read Commands  
Read Sector(s)  
7 - 1  
7 - 2  
7 - 2  
7 - 2  
7 - 2  
7 - 3  
7 - 3  
7 - 3  
7 - 4  
7 - 4  
Read Verify Sector(s)  
Read Sector Buffer  
Read DMA  
Read Multiple  
Set Multiple  
Write Commands  
Write Sector(s)  
iii  
DIAMONDMAX 60 PRODUCT MANUAL  
Write Verify Sector(s)  
Write Sector Buffer  
Write DMA  
7 - 4  
7 - 4  
7 - 5  
7 - 5  
7 - 6  
7 - 6  
7 - 7  
7 - 7  
7 - 7  
7 - 7  
7 - 7  
7 - 7  
7 - 8  
7 - 8  
7 - 8  
7 - 8  
7 - 8  
7 - 8  
7 - 8  
7 - 9  
7 - 10  
7 - 10  
7 - 13  
7 - 14  
7 - 15  
Write Multiple  
Mode Set/Check Commands  
Set Features Mode  
Read Native Max Address  
Set Max  
Set Max Password  
Set Max Lock  
Set Max Unlock  
Set Max Freeze Lock  
Power Mode Commands  
Standby Immediate  
Idle Immediate  
Standby  
Idle  
Check Power Mode  
Set Sleep Mode  
Default Power-on Condition  
Initialization Commands  
Identify Drive  
Initialize Drive Parameters  
Seek, Format, and Diagnostic Commands  
S.M.A.R.T. Command Set  
Section 8Service and Support  
Service Policy  
No Quibble Service  
Support  
8 - 1  
8 - 1  
8 - 1  
Glossary  
iv  
DIAMONDMAX 60 PRODUCT MANUAL  
Figures  
Figure  
Title  
Page  
2 - 1  
3 - 1  
4 - 1  
4 - 2  
4 - 3  
4 - 4  
5 - 1  
5 - 2  
5 - 3  
5 - 4  
5 - 5  
5 - 6  
5 - 7  
5 - 8  
5 - 9  
5 - 10  
5 - 11  
5 - 12  
5 - 13  
PCBA Jumper Location and Configuration  
2 - 6  
3 - 2  
4 - 2  
4 - 3  
4 - 3  
4 - 5  
5 - 1  
5 - 3  
5 - 4  
5 - 5  
5 - 6  
5 - 6  
5 - 7  
5 - 7  
5 - 8  
5 - 8  
5 - 9  
5 - 9  
5 - 10  
Outline and Mounting Dimensions  
Multi-pack Shipping Container  
Single-pack Shipping Container (Option A)  
Single-pack Shipping Container (Option B)  
IDE Interface and Power Cabling Detail  
Data Connector  
PIO Data Transfer to/from Device  
Multi-word DMA Data Transfer  
Initiating an Ultra DMA Data In Burst  
Sustained Ultra DMA Data In Burst  
Host Pausing an Ultra DMA Data In Burst  
Device Terminating an Ultra DMA Data In Burst  
Host Terminating an Ultra DMA Data In Burst  
Initiating an Ultra DMA Data Out Burst  
Sustained Ultra DMA Data Out Burst  
Device Pausing an Ultra DMA Data Out Burst  
Host Terminating an Ultra DMA Data Out Burst  
Device Terminating an Ultra DMA Data Out Burst  
v
SECTION 1  
Introduction  
Maxtor Corporation  
Maxtor Corporation has been providing high-quality computer storage products since 1982. Along the way,  
we’ve seen many changes in data storage needs. Not long ago, only a handful of specific users needed more than  
a couple hundred megabytes of storage. Today, downloading from the Internet and CD-ROMs, multimedia,  
networking and advanced office applications are driving storage needs even higher. Even home PC applications  
need capacities measured in gigabytes, not megabytes.  
Products  
Maxtor’s products meet demanding storage capacity requirements with room to spare. They feature proven  
compatibility and reliability. While DiamondMax® 60 is the latest addition to our legacy of high performance  
5,400 RPM desktop and workstation hard drives, our DiamondMax® VL 30 series hard drives deliver industry-  
leading capacity, reliability and value for entry-level systems and consumer electronics applications.  
Support  
No matter which capacity, all Maxtor hard drives are supported by our commitment to total customer  
satisfaction and our No Quibble Service® guarantee. One call – or a visit to our home page on the Internet  
provide you the information you need quickly, accurately and in the form you prefer – a fax, a downloaded  
file or a conversation with a representative.  
Manual Organization  
This hard disk drive reference manual is organized in the following method:  
Section 1 – Introduction  
Section 2 – Description  
Section 3 – Specifications  
Section 4 – Installation  
Section 5 – AT Interface  
Section 6 – Host Software Interface  
Section 7 – Interface Commands  
Section 8 – Service and Support  
Appendix – Glossary  
Abbreviations  
ABBRV DESCRIPTION  
ABBRV DESCRIPTION  
ATA AT attachment  
bpi bits per inch  
MB megabyte  
Mbits/sec megabits per second  
CHS cylinder - head - sector  
db decibels  
MB/sec megabytes per second  
MHz megahertz  
dBA decibels, A weighted  
DMA direct memory access  
ECC error correction code  
fci flux changes per inch  
ms millisecond  
MSB most significant bit  
mV millivolts  
ns nanoseconds  
G
acceleration  
PIO programmed input/output  
RPM revolutions per minute  
tpi tracks per inch  
GB gigabyte  
Hz hertz  
KB kilobyte  
UDMA ultra direct memory access  
µsec microsecond  
LBA logical block address(ing)  
LSB least significant bit  
mA milliamperes  
V
volts  
W
watts  
1 – 1  
DIAMONDMAX 60 – INTRODUCTION  
Conventions  
If there is a conflict between text and tables, the table shall be accepted as being correct.  
Key Words  
The names of abbreviations, commands, fields and acronyms used as signal names are in all uppercase type  
(e.g., IDENTIFY DRIVE). Fields containing only one bit are usually referred to as the “name” bit instead of  
the “name” field.  
Names of drive registers begin with a capital letter (e.g., Cylinder High register).  
Numbering  
Numbers that are not followed by a lowercase “b” or “h” are decimal values. Numbers that are followed by  
a lowercase “b” (e.g., 01b) are binary values. Numbers that are followed by a lowercase “h” (e.g., 3Ah) are  
hexadecimal values.  
Signal Conventions  
Signal names are shown in all uppercase type.  
All signals are either high active or low active signals. A dash character (-) at the end of a signal name  
indicates that the signal is low active. A low active signal is true when it is below ViL and is false when it is  
above ViH. A signal without a dash at the end indicates that the signal is high active. A high active signal is  
true when it is above ViH and is false when it is below ViL.  
When a signal is asserted, it means the signal is driven by an active circuit to its true state.  
When a signal is negated, it means the signal is driven by an active circuit to its false state.  
When a signal is released, it means the signal is not actively driven to any state. Some signals have bias  
circuitry that pull the signal to either a true or false state when no signal driver is actively asserting or negating  
the signal. These instances are noted under the description of the signal.  
1 – 2  
SECTION 2  
Product Description  
®
Maxtor DiamondMax 60 AT disk drives are 1-inch high, 3.5-inch diameter random access storage devices which  
incorporate an on-board ATA-5/Ultra DMA 100 controller. High capacity is achieved by a balanced combination  
of high areal recording density and the latest data encoding and servo techniques.  
Maxtor's latest advancements in electronic packaging and integration methods have lowered the drive's power  
consumption and increased its reliability. Advanced giant magneto-resistive read/write heads and a state-of-the-art  
head/disk assembly - using an integrated motor/spindle design - allow up to four disks in a 3.5-inch package.  
Exceptionally high data transfer rates, 5,400 RPM spin speed and < 9.0 ms access times make these performance  
series disk drives especially well-suited to high-end desktop and server applications.  
DiamondMax 60 Key Features  
ANSI ATA-5 compliant PIO Mode 4 interface (Enhanced IDE)  
Supports Ultra DMA Mode 4 for up to 100 MB/sec data transfers  
2 MB buffer with multi-adaptive cache manager  
5,400 RPM spin speed  
< 9.0 ms seek time  
Zone density and I.D.-less recording  
Outstanding shock resistance at 250 Gs  
High durability with 50K contact start/stop cycles  
Advanced multi-burst on-the-fly Error Correction Code (ECC)  
Extended data integrity with ECC protected data and fault tolerant servo synchronization fields  
Supports EPA Energy Star Standards (Green PC Friendly) with ATA powering savings commands  
Auto park and lock actuator mechanism  
Low power consumption  
S.M.A.R.T. Capability  
Note: Maxtor defines one megabyte as 106 or one million bytes and one gigabyte as 109 or one billion bytes.  
2 – 1  
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION  
Product Features  
Functional / Interface  
Maxtor DiamondMax 60 hard drives contain all necessary mechanical and electronic parts to interpret control  
signals and commands from an AT-compatible host computer. See Section 3 Product Specifications, for complete  
drive specifications.  
Zone Density Recording  
The disk capacity is increased with bit density management – common with Zone Density Recording. Each  
disk surface is divided into 16 circumferential zones. All tracks within a given zone contain a constant  
number of data sectors. The number of data sectors per track varies in different zones; the outermost zone  
contains the largest number of data sectors and the innermost contains the fewest.  
Read / Write Multiple Mode  
This mode is implemented per ANSI ATA/ATAPI-5 specification. Read/Write Multiple allows the host to  
transfer a set number of sectors without an interrupt request between them, reducing transfer process  
overhead and improving host performance.  
UltraDMA - Mode 4  
Maxtor DiamondMax 60 hard drives fully comply with the new ANSI Ultra DMA protocol, which greatly  
improves overall AT interface performance by significantly improving burst and sustained data throughput.  
Multi-word DMA (EISA Type B) - Mode 2  
Supports multi-word Direct Memory Access (DMA) EISA Type B mode transfers.  
Sector Address Translation  
All DiamondMax 60 drives feature a universal translate mode. In an AT/EISA-class system, the drive may be  
configured to any specified combination of cylinders, heads and sectors (within the range of the drive's  
formatted capacity). DiamondMax 60 drives power-up in a translate mode:  
MODEL  
96147H8  
94610H6  
93073H4  
92305H3  
91536H2  
CYL  
H D  
16  
16  
16  
16  
16  
SPT  
63  
LZone  
(*)  
WPcom  
(*)  
MAX LBA  
120,060,864  
90,045,648  
60,030,432  
45,023,328  
30,015,216  
CAPACITY  
61,471 MB  
46,103 MB  
30,735 MB  
23,051 MB  
15,367 MB  
119,108  
89,331  
59,554  
44,666  
29,777  
63  
(*)  
(*)  
63  
(*)  
(*)  
63  
(*)  
(*)  
63  
(*)  
(*)  
(*) The fields LZone (Landing Zone) and WPcom (Write Pre-comp) are not used by the Maxtor hard drive  
and the values may be either 0 or the values set by the BIOS. All capacities listed in the above table are based  
on 106 or one million bytes.  
Logical Block Addressing  
The Logical Block Address (LBA) mode can only be utilized in systems that support this form of translation. The  
cylinder, head and sector geometry of the drive, as presented to the host, differs from the actual physical  
geometry. The host AT computer may access a drive of set parameters: number of cylinders, heads and sectors  
per track, plus cylinder, head and sector addresses. However, the drive can’t use these host parameters directly  
because of zoned recording techniques. The drive translates the host parameters to a set of logical internal  
addresses for data access.  
The host drive geometry parameters are mapped into an LBA based on this formula:  
LBA  
= (HSCA - 1) + HHDA x HSPT + HNHD x HSPT x HCYA  
= (HSCA - 1) + HSPT x (HHDA + HNHD x HCYA)  
HSCA = Host Sector Address, HHDA = Host Head Address  
HCYA = Host Cylinder Address, HNHD = Host Number of Heads  
HSPT = Host Sectors per Track  
(1)  
(2)  
where  
2 – 2  
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION  
The LBA is checked for violating the drive capacity. If it does not, the LBA is converted to physical drive  
cylinder, head and sector values. The physical address is then used to access or store the data on the disk and  
for other drive related operations.  
Defect Management Zone (DMZ)  
Each drive model has a fixed number of spare sectors per drive, all of which are located at the end of the  
drive. Upon detection of a bad sector that has been reassigned, the next sequential sector is used.  
For example, if sector 3 is flagged, data that would have been stored there is “pushed down” and recorded  
in sector 4. Sector 4 then effectively becomes sector 3, as sequential sectors are “pushed down” across the  
entire drive. The first spare sector makes up for the loss of sector 3, and so maintains the sequential order of  
data. This push down method assures maximum performance.  
On-the-Fly Hardware Error Correction Code (ECC)  
16 symbols, single burst, guaranteed  
Software ECC Correction  
24 symbols, single burst, guaranteed  
Automatic Park and Lock Operation  
Immediately following power down, dynamic braking of the spinning disks delays momentarily allowing the  
read/write heads to move to an inner mechanical stop. A small fixed magnet holds the rotary actuator in  
place as the disk spins down. The rotary actuator is released only when power is again applied.  
Cache Management  
Buffer Segmentation  
The data buffer is organized into two segments: the data buffer and the micro controller scratch pad.  
The data buffer is dynamically allocated for read and write data depending on the commands received.  
A variable number of read and write buffers may exist at the same time.  
Read-Ahead Mode  
Normally, this mode is active. Following a read request, disk read-ahead begins on the first sector and  
continues sequentially until the allocated buffer is full. If a read request is received during the read-ahead  
operation, the buffer is examined to determine if the request is in the cache. If a cache hit occurs, read-  
ahead mode continues without interruption and the host transfer begins immediately.  
Automatic Write Reallocation (AWR)  
This feature is part of the write cache and reduces the risk of data loss during deferred write operations. If a  
disk error occurs during the disk write process, the disk task stops and the suspect sector is reallocated to a  
pool of alternate sectors located at the end of the drive. Following reallocation, the disk write task continues  
until it is complete.  
Write Cache Stacking  
Normally, this mode is active. Write cache mode accepts the host write data into the buffer until the buffer  
is full or the host transfer is complete. A command complete interrupt is generated at the end of the transfer.  
A disk write task begins to store the host data to disk. Host write commands continue to be accepted and  
data transferred to the buffer until either the write command stack is full or the data buffer is full. The drive  
may reorder write commands to optimize drive throughput.  
2 – 3  
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION  
Major HDA Components  
Drive Mechanism  
A brush-less DC direct drive motor rotates the spindle at 5,400 RPM ( 0.1%). The dynamically balanced  
motor/spindle assembly ensures minimal mechanical run-out to the disks. A dynamic brake provides a fast  
stop to the spindle motor upon power removal. The speed tolerance includes motor performance and motor  
circuit tolerances.  
Rotary Actuator  
All DiamondMax 60 drives employ a rotary voice coil actuator which consists of a moving coil, an actuator  
arm assembly and stationary magnets. The actuator moves on a low-mass, low-friction center shaft. The low  
friction contributes to fast access times and low power consumption.  
Read/Write Electronics  
An integrated circuit mounted within the sealed head disk assembly (near the read/write heads) provides up  
to eight head selection (depending on the model), read pre-amplification and write drive circuitry.  
Read/Write Heads and Media  
Low mass, low force giant magneto-resistive read/write heads record data on 3.5-inch diameter disks. Maxtor  
uses a sputtered thin film medium on all disks for DiamondMax 60 drives.  
Air Filtration System  
All DiamondMax 60 drives are assembled in a Class 100 controlled environment. Over the life of the drive, a  
0.1 micron filter and breather filter located within the sealed head disk assembly (HDA) maintain a clean  
environment to the heads and disks. DiamondMax drives are designed to operate in a typical office  
environment with minimum environmental control.  
Microprocessor  
The microprocessor controls the following functions for the drive electronics:  
Command execution  
Cache management  
Data correction and error recovery  
Diagnostic execution  
Data sequencing  
Head positioning (including error recovery)  
Host interface  
Index detection  
Spin speed control  
Seeks  
Servo  
S.M.A.R.T.  
2 – 4  
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION  
Subsystem Configuration  
Dual Drive Support  
Two drives may be accessed via a common interface cable, using the same range of I/O addresses. The drives  
are jumpered as device 0 or 1 (Master/Slave), and are selected by the drive select bit in the  
Device/Head register of the task file.  
All Task File registers are written in parallel to both drives. The interface processor on each drive decides  
whether a command written to it should be executed; this depends on the type of command and which  
drive is selected. Only the drive selected executes the command and activates the data bus in response to  
host I/O reads; the drive not selected remains inactive.  
A master/slave relationship exists between the two drives: device 0 is the master and device 1 the slave.  
When J50 is closed (factory default, figure 2-1), the drive assumes the role of master; when open, the drive  
acts as a slave. In single drive configurations, J50 must be closed.  
Cable Select Option  
CSEL (cable select) is an optional feature per ANSI ATA specification. Drives configured in a multiple drive  
system are identified by CSEL’s value:  
– If CSEL is grounded, then the drive address is 0.  
– If CSEL is open, then the drive address is 1.  
Jumper Location / Configuration  
Darkened jumper pins indicate factory-installed (default) shunts.  
JUMPER CONFIGURATION  
J50  
J48  
J46  
J44  
J42  
Master/Slave  
Only drive in single drive system*  
Master drive in dual drive system*  
Slave drive in dual drive system  
C
C
O
Cable Select  
Disabled*  
Enabled  
O
C
Cylinder Limitation  
Disabled*  
Enabled  
O
C
Factory Reserved  
Factory Reserved  
O
O
Key * = Default C = Closed (jumper installed) O = Open (no jumper installed)  
Figure 2-1  
PCBA Jumper Location and Configuration  
Cylinder Limitation Jumper Description  
On some older BIOS', primarily those that auto-configure the disk drive, a hang may occur. The Cylinder  
Limitation jumper reduces the capacity in the Identify Drive allowing large capacity drives to work with older  
BIOS'. The capacity reported when J46 is closed will be as follows: drives less than or equal to 32GB will  
report 2.1GB. Drives greater than 32GB will report 32GB.  
2 – 5  
SECTION 3  
Product Specifications  
Models and Capacities  
MODEL  
96147H8  
94610H6  
93073H4  
92305H3  
91536H2  
61,471  
46,103  
30,735  
23,051  
15,367  
Formatted Capacity (MB LBA Mode)  
Maxtor defines one megabyte as 106 or one million bytes and one gigabyte as 109 or one billion bytes.  
Drive Configuration  
MODEL  
96147H8  
94610H6  
93073H4  
ATA-5 / Ultra DMA  
E2 PR4 RLL 16/17  
1:1  
92305H3  
91536H2  
Integrated Interface  
Encoding Method  
Interleave  
Servo System  
Embedded  
2 MB SDRAM  
16  
Buffer Size / Type  
Data Zones per Surface  
Data Surfaces / Heads  
Number of Disks  
Areal Density  
8
4
6
3
4
3
2
2
1
2
11.2 Gb / in2 max  
27,300 tpi  
340 - 412 kbpi  
361 - 418 kfci  
512  
Track Density  
Recording Density  
Flux Density  
Bytes per Sector / Block  
Sectors per Track  
Sectors per Drive  
373 - 662  
60,030,432  
120,060,864  
90,045,648  
45,023,328  
30,015,216  
Performance Specifications  
MODEL  
96147H8  
94610H6  
93073H4  
92305H3  
91536H2  
Seek Times (typical read)  
Track-to-Track  
1.0 ms  
< 9.0 ms  
15 ms  
Average (performance)  
Average (silent mode)  
Full Stroke  
< 20.0 ms  
5.55 ms  
5,400 RPM  
< 0.3 ms  
Average Latency  
Rotational Speed (±0.1%)  
Controller Overhead  
Data Transfer Rate  
To/From Interface  
(UltraDMA - M4)  
up to 100 MB/sec  
up to 16.7 MB/sec  
To/From Interface  
(PIO 4/Multi-word DMA M4)  
To/From Media  
up to 40.8 MB/sec  
8.5 sec typical  
Start Time (0 to Drive Ready)  
3 – 1  
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS  
Physical Dimensions (maximum)  
PARAMETER  
STANDARD  
1.028 inches  
5.787 inches  
4.00 inches  
1.3 pounds  
METRIC  
Height  
26.1 millimeters  
147 millimeters  
101.6 millimeters  
0.59 kilograms  
Length  
Width  
Weight  
Figure 3 - 1  
Outline and Mounting Dimensions  
3 – 2  
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS  
Power Requirements  
MODE  
12V ± 10%  
5V ± 5%  
490 mA  
550 mA  
550 mA  
500 mA  
280 mA  
200 mA  
POWER  
Spin-up (peak)  
Seek (avg)  
Read/Write (avg)  
Idle (avg)  
1800 mA  
650 mA  
250 mA  
250 mA  
20 mA  
10.6 W  
5.8 W  
5.5 W  
1.6 W  
1.0 W  
Standby (avg)  
Sleep (avg)  
20 mA  
Power Mode Definitions  
Spin-up  
The drive is spinning up following initial application of power and has not yet reached full speed.  
Seek  
A random access operation by the disk drive.  
Read/Write  
Data is being read from or written to the drive.  
Idle  
The drive is spinning, the actuator is parked and powered off and all other circuitry is powered on.  
The drive is capable of responding to read commands within 40 ms.  
Standby  
The spin motor is not spinning. The drive will leave this mode upon receipt of a command that requires  
disk access. The time-out value for this mode is programmable. The buffer is active to accept write data.  
Sleep  
This is the lowest power state – with the interface set to inactive. A software or hardware reset is required  
to return the drive to the Standby state.  
EPA Energy Star Compliance  
Maxtor Corporation supports the goals of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star program  
to reduce the electrical power consumption of computer equipment.  
Environmental Limits  
PARAMETER  
OPERATING  
NON-OPERATING/STORAGE  
Temperature  
5° C to 55° C  
low temperature (-40° C)  
high temperature (71° C) per MIL-STD-810E, method  
501.3, climatic category; hot-induced conditions.  
Thermal Gradient  
Relative Humidity  
Wet Bulb  
25° C per hour ( maximum)  
5% to 95% (non-condensing)  
30° C (maximum)  
Altitude  
-200 to 10,000 feet  
-200 to 40,000 feet  
Acoustic Noise - Idle Mode  
(per ISO 7779, 10 microphone, average  
sound power)  
3.1 bel, measured at 5k ft.  
3 – 3  
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS  
Shock and Vibration  
PARAMETER  
OPERATING  
NON-OPERATING  
Mechanical Shock  
Rotational Shock  
Random Vibration  
30 Gs, 2.0 ms, no errors  
250 Gs, 2.0 ms, no damage  
18,000 Rad/sec,0.5 - 1.0 ms, no damage  
10 - 45 Hz at 0.004 G2 /Hz  
48 - 62 Hz at 0.008 G 2/Hz  
65 - 300 Hz at 0.004 G 2/Hz  
301 - 500 Hz at 0.0006 G 2/Hz  
no errors  
PSD:  
10 Hz at .05 G 2 /Hz  
20 Hz at .055 G 2/Hz,  
300 Hz at .05 G 2/Hz  
301 Hz at .0014 G 2/Hz  
500-760 Hz at .001 G2 /Hz  
877 Hz at .003 G 2/Hz  
1000-1570 Hz at .001 G 2 /Hz  
2000 Hz at .0001 G 2/Hz  
Swept Sine Vibration  
10 - 300 Hz  
1 G (0 - peak) amplitude, .25 octave per minute  
Reliability Specifications  
Annual Return Rate  
< 1.0%  
Annual Return Rate (ARR) indicates the average against products shipped.  
ARR includes all reasons for returns (failures, handling damage, NDF), but  
does not include inventory credit returns.  
Quality Acceptance Rate  
< 1,000 DPPM  
The quality acceptance rate indicates the percentage of Maxtor products  
successfully installed by our customers, and/or the number of defective parts  
per million (DPPM) encountered during the entire installation process.  
Start/Stop Cycles  
50,000  
This indicates the average minimum cycles for reliable start/stop function.  
Data Reliability  
< 1 per 1014 bits read  
Data errors (non-recoverable). Average data error rate allowed with all error  
recovery features activated.  
Component Design Life  
5 years (minimum)  
Component design life is defined as a.) the time period before identified  
wear-out mechanisms impact the failure rate, or b.) the time period up to the  
wear-out point when useful component life expires.  
3 – 4  
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS  
EMC/EMI  
Radiated Electromagnetic Field Emissions - EMC Compliance  
The hard disk drive mechanism is designed as a subassembly for installation into a suitable enclosure and is  
therefore not subject to Subpart J of Part 15 of FCC Rules (47CFR15) or the Canadian Department of  
Communications Radio Interference Regulations. Although not required, the disk mechanism has been  
tested within a suitable end-use product and found to comply with Class B limits of the FCC Rules and  
Regulations of the Canadian Department of Communications.  
The CE Marking indicates conformity with the European Union Low Voltage Directive (73/23/EEC) when  
the disk mechanism is installed in a typical personal computer. Maxtor recommends that testing and analysis  
for EMC compliance be performed with the disk mechanism installed within the user's end-use application.  
Canadian Emissions Statement  
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from digital apparatus as set  
out in the radio interference regulations of the Canadian department of communications.  
Le present appareil numerique n'emet pas de bruit radioelectriques depassant les limites applicables aux  
appareils numeriques de Class B prescrites dans le reglement sur le brouillage radioelectrique edicte par le  
ministere des communications du Canada.  
Safety Regulatory Compliance  
All Maxtor hard drives comply with relevant product safety standards such as CE, CUL, TUV and UL rules and  
regulations. As delivered, Maxtor hard drives are designed for system integration before they are used.  
3 – 5  
SECTION 4  
Handling and Installation  
Hard Drive Handling Precautions  
If the handling precautions are not followed, damage to the hard drive may result - which may void the warranty.  
During handling, NEVER drop, jar, or bump a drive. Handle the drive by its sides and avoid touching the printed circuit board  
assembly (PCBA).  
Hard drives are sensitive to electrostatic discharge (ESD) damage. Use proper ESD practices by grounding yourself and the  
computer system the hard drive will be installed in.  
Allow the hard drive to reach room temperature BEFORE installing it in your computer system.  
NEVER switch DC power onto the drive by plugging an electrically live DC source cable into the drive's connector. NEVER  
connect a live connector to the hard drive's IDE interface connector.  
ELECTRICAL GROUNDING - For proper operation, the drive must be securely fastened to a device bay  
that provides a suitable electrical ground to the drive baseplate.  
Electro-Static Discharge (ESD)  
To avoid some of the problems associated with ESD, Maxtor advises that anyone handling a disk drive use a  
wrist strap with an attached wire connected to an earth ground. Failure to observe these precautions voids the  
product warranty.  
Manufacturers frequently experience “unsolved” component/hardware malfunctions often caused by ESD. To  
reduce the incidence of ESD-related problems, Maxtor recommends that any electronics manufacturing plans  
include a comprehensive ESD program, the basic elements and functions of which are outlined here:  
ESD Program Element  
Management  
Chief coordinator  
Multi-department committee  
Employee training  
ESD Program Function  
Institute and maintain  
Organize and enforce  
Evaluate and improve  
Educate and inform  
ESD program supplies typically include: wrist- and foot-worn grounding straps; counter-top and floor antistatic  
matting; wrist strap testers; ESD video and training materials. Sources for such supplies include:  
Static Control Systems – 3M  
225-4S, 3M Center  
Charleswater  
93 Border St.  
St. Paul, MN 55144  
West Newton, MA 02165-9990  
Maxtor also offers a complete video training package, “Care and Handling of Maxtor Disk Drives.”  
Contact your Maxtor representative for details.  
4 – 1  
INSTALLATION  
Unpacking and Inspection  
Retain any packing material for reuse. Inspect the shipping container for evidence of damage in transit. Notify  
the carrier immediately in case of damage to the shipping container.  
As they are removed, inspect drives for evidence of shipping damage or loose hardware. If a drive is damaged  
(and no container damage is evident), notify Maxtor immediately for drive disposition.  
Figure 4 - 1  
Multi-pack Shipping Container  
4 – 2  
INSTALLATION  
Figure 4 - 2  
Single Pack Shipping Container (Option A)  
Figure 4 - 3  
Single Pack Shipping Container (Option B)  
Repacking  
If a Maxtor drive requires return, repack it using Maxtor packing materials, including the antistatic bag.  
Physical Installation  
Recommended Mounting Configuration  
®
The DiamondMax drive design allows greater shock tolerance than that afforded by larger, heavier drives.  
The drive may be mounted in any attitude using four size 6-32 screws with 1/8-inch maximum penetration  
and a maximum torque of 5-inch pounds. See Figure 3-1 for mounting dimensions. Allow adequate  
ventilation to the drive to ensure reliable operation. See the following pages for specific installation steps.  
4 – 3  
INSTALLATION  
Before You Begin  
Important – Please Read  
Please read this installation section completely before installing the Maxtor hard drive. It gives general  
information for installing a Maxtor hard drive in a typical computer system. If you don’t understand the  
installation steps, have a qualified computer technician install the hard drive.  
Back up. Protect your Existing Data  
Periodic backup of important data is always a good idea. Whenever your computer is on, there is the  
potential for losing data on your hard drive. This is especially true when running disk utilities or any software  
that directly manipulates your files. Maxtor recommends that you make a backup copy of the files on any  
existing hard drives prior to installing the new drive. If required, this data may then be copied to the Maxtor  
hard drive after it has been installed in the computer. Refer to your computer user’s manual for detailed data  
backup instructions.  
Tools for Installation  
The following tools are needed to install your new Maxtor hard drive:  
• A small (#2) Phillips head screw driver  
• Small needle-nose pliers or tweezers  
• Your computer user’s manuals  
• Operating system software  
System Requirements  
• IDE/AT interface  
Maxtor recommends:  
• Drives less than or equal to 8.4 GB – 486 DX 66 MHz  
• Drives larger than 8.4 GB – Pentium-class processor  
Operating System Requirements  
• Drives less than or equal to 8.4 GB:  
- DOS 5.0 or higher  
• Drives larger than 8.4 GB:  
- Installing as boot drive (Primary Master) requires full installation set of Windows 95/98 – not an update  
from DOS or Windows 3.x.  
- Installing as non-boot drive (Primary Slave, Secondary Master or Slave) requires Windows 95/98 on the  
boot drive.  
Hook up  
Maxtor recommends that you use the MaxBlast™ Plus software to create a customized installation guide for your  
system before physically installing your new hard drive. The information created by MaxBlast Plus relates to the  
following illustrations.  
Boot the System with the MaxBlast Plus Diskette  
Before physically installing the Maxtor hard drive, boot your system with the MaxBlast Plus diskette. It will  
assist you with the instructions in this section for a successful installation.  
Configure the Drive Jumpers  
The jumper configurations have three valid jumper settings – Master, Slave and Cable Select. Maxtor hard  
drives are always shipped with the Master jumper setting enabled.  
Install the 5.25-inch Mounting Brackets  
If the Maxtor hard drive will be mounted in a 5.25-inch device bay, you will need to attach 5.25-inch  
brackets to the hard drive. These brackets are not required if the drive is mounted in a 3.5-inch device bay.  
4 – 4  
INSTALLATION  
Install the Hard Drive in a Device Bay  
Refer to your computer user’s manual for specific mounting information. Be sure to secure the drive to the  
device bay with all four screws.  
Attach the Interface and Power Cables  
Do not force or rock the connectors into their sockets on the hard drive. Push them in straight until they  
are seated.  
Note: DiamondMax Hard Drive Kits that carry a “U” in the kit number are UltraDMA 66 compatible hard  
drives. A standard IDE cable can be used for drive installation; however, an UltraDMA cable is required to  
achieve UltraDMA 66 data transfers in UltraDMA 66 compatible systems. Follow the illustration below for  
proper cable connections to the system and hard drive(s) when using this cable.  
Attach an IDE interface connector to J1 on the Maxtor drive. Attach a power connector to J2 on the  
Maxtor drive. This connector is keyed and will only fit one way. Check all other cable connections before  
you power up. Striped/colored edge is pin 1  
After attaching the IDE interface cable and the  
power cable to the Maxtor hard drive, verify that  
all other cables connected to other devices, the  
mother board or interface card(s) are correctly  
seated.  
Striped/colored edge is pin  
Figure 4 - 4  
IDE Interface and Power Cabling Detail  
Start up  
Turn your system ON. During the system start up sequence, run the SETUP (BIOS) program. Newer systems  
usually display a message like “press DEL to enter Setup,” showing how to access the SETUP (BIOS) program.  
Choose the device position where the Maxtor hard drive will be installed (Primary Master, Primary Slave,  
Secondary Master, Secondary Slave or their equivalents) and select the “Auto Detect” option. Save and exit the  
BIOS. The system will now boot. Boot to the MaxBlast™ Plus diskette.  
Set up  
MaxBlast™ Plus will guide you through the steps to prepare (partition and format) your new Maxtor hard drive.  
Once you have completed this step, your new Maxtor hard drive will be ready to use.  
Note: Do not discard the MaxBlast Plus diskette once the installation is complete. The diskette contains Maxdiag,  
a diagnostic utility that is a separate program from the MaxBlast™ Plus installation software.  
4 – 5  
SECTION 5  
AT Interface Description  
Interface Connector  
All DiamondMax® 60 AT drives have a 40-pin ATA interface connector mounted on the PCBA. The drive  
may connect directly to the host; or it can also accommodate a cable connection (maximum cable  
length: 18 inches).  
Figure 5-1  
Data Connector  
Pin Description Summary  
PIN  
01  
03  
05  
07  
09  
11  
13  
15  
17  
19  
21  
23  
25  
27  
29  
SIGNAL  
PIN  
02  
04  
06  
08  
10  
12  
14  
16  
18  
20  
22  
24  
26  
28  
30  
SIGNAL  
Ground  
DD8  
Reset -  
DD7  
DD6  
DD9  
DD5  
DD10  
DD4  
DD11  
DD3  
DD12  
DD2  
DD13  
DD1  
DD0  
DD14  
DD15  
Ground  
(keypin)  
Ground  
Ground  
Ground  
CSEL  
Ground  
DMARQ  
DIOW -:STOP  
DIOR -:HDMARDY:HSTROBE  
IORDY:DDMARDY:DSTROBE  
DMACK -  
IOCS16  
Obsolete  
31  
INTRQ  
32  
33  
35  
37  
39  
DA1  
DA0  
34  
36  
38  
40  
PDIAG -  
DA2  
CS0 -  
DASP -  
CS1 -  
Ground  
5 – 1  
AT INTERFACE DESCRIPTION  
Pin Description Table  
PIN NAME PIN  
I/O SIGNAL NAME  
SIGNAL DESCRIPTION  
RESET -  
DD0  
01  
17  
I
Host Reset  
Reset signal from the host system. Active during power up and inactive after.  
I/O Host Data Bus  
16 bit bi-directional data bus between host and drive. Lower 8 bits used for  
register and ECC byte transfers. All 16 bits used for data transfers.  
DD1  
DD2  
15  
13  
11  
09  
07  
05  
03  
04  
06  
08  
10  
12  
14  
16  
18  
21  
I/O  
I/O  
I/O  
I/O  
I/O  
I/O  
I/O  
I/O  
I/O  
I/O  
I/O  
I/O  
I/O  
I/O  
I/O  
DD3  
DD4  
DD5  
DD6  
DD7  
DD8  
DD9  
DD10  
DD11  
DD12  
DD13  
DD14  
DD15  
DMARQ  
O
DMA Request  
Host I/O Write  
Host I/O Read  
This signal is used with DMACK for DMA transfers. By asserting this signal, the  
drive indicates that data is ready to be transfered to and from the host.  
DIOW -  
STOP  
23  
25  
I
Rising edge of Write strobe clocks data from the host data bus to a register on  
the drive.  
DIOR -  
HDMARDY  
-
I
Read strobe enables data from a register on the drive onto the host data bus.  
DMA ready during UltraDMA data in bursts.  
Data strobe during UltraDMA data out bursts.  
HSTROBE  
IORDY  
DDMARDY  
-
27  
O
I/O Channel Ready  
This signal may be driven low by the drive to insert wait states into host I/O  
cycles.  
DMA ready during UltraDMA data out bursts.  
Data strobe during UltraDMA data in bursts.  
DSTROBE  
CSEL  
DMACK -  
INTRQ  
28  
29  
31  
Cable Select  
Used for Master/Slave selection via cable. Requires special cabling on host  
system and installation of Cable Select jumper.  
I
DMA Acknowledge This signal is used with DMARQ for DMA transfers. By asserting this signal, the  
host is acknowledging the receipt of data or is indicating that data is available.  
O
Host Interrupt  
Request  
Interrupt to the host asserted when the drive requires attention from the host.  
IOCS16  
PDIAG -  
DA0  
32  
34  
35  
33  
36  
37  
Device 16 bit I/O  
Obsolete  
I/O Passed Diagnostic Output by drive when in Slave mode; Input to drive when in Master mode.  
I
I
I
I
Host Address Bus 3 bit binary address from the host to select a register in the drive.  
DA1  
DA2  
CS0 -  
Host Chip Select 0 Chip select from the host used to access the Command Block registers in the  
drive. This signal is a decode of I/O addresses 1F0 - 1F7 hex.  
CS1 -  
38  
39  
I
Host Chip Select 1 Chip select from the host used to access the Control registers in the drive. This  
signal is a decode of I/O addresses 3F6 - 3F7 hex.  
DASP -  
I/O Drive Active/Drive  
1 Present  
Time-multiplexed, open collector output which indicates that a drive is active, or  
that  
device 1 is present.  
GND  
02  
19  
22  
24  
26  
30  
40  
20  
N/A Ground  
Signal ground.  
KEY  
N/A Key  
Pin used for keying the interface connector.  
5 – 2  
AT INTERFACE DESCRIPTION  
PIO Timing  
TIMING PARAMETERS  
MODE 0  
MODE 1  
MODE 2  
MODE 3  
MODE 4  
t0  
Cycle Time (min)  
600 ns  
70 ns  
383 ns  
50 ns  
240 ns  
30 ns  
180 ns  
30 ns  
80 ns  
70 ns  
30 ns  
10 ns  
20 ns  
5 ns  
120 ns  
25 ns  
70 ns  
25 ns  
20 ns  
10 ns  
20 ns  
5 ns  
t1  
Address valid to DIOR-/DIOW- setup (min)  
DIOR-/DIOW- 16-bit (min)  
DIOR-/DIOW- recovery time (min)  
DIOW- data setup (min)  
t2  
165 ns  
125 ns  
100 ns  
t2i  
t3  
60 ns  
30 ns  
50 ns  
5 ns  
45 ns  
20 ns  
35 ns  
5 ns  
30 ns  
15 ns  
20 ns  
5 ns  
t4  
DIOW- data hold (min)  
t5  
DIOR- data setup (min)  
t6  
DIOW- data hold (min)  
t6Z  
t9  
DIOR- data tristate (max)  
30 ns  
20 ns  
0
30 ns  
15 ns  
0
30 ns  
10 ns  
0
30 ns  
10 ns  
0
30 ns  
10 ns  
0
DIOR-/DIOW- to address valid hold (min)  
Read Data Valid to IORDY active (min)  
IORDY Setup Time  
tRd  
tA  
tB  
35 ns  
1250 ns  
35 ns  
1250 ns  
35 ns  
1250 ns  
35 ns  
1250 ns  
35 ns  
1250 ns  
IORDY Pulse Width (max)  
Figure 5 - 2  
PIO Data Transfer To/From Device  
5 – 3  
AT INTERFACE DESCRIPTION  
DMA Timing  
TIMING PARAMETERS  
MODE 0  
MODE 1  
MODE 2  
t0  
Cycle Time (min)  
480 ns  
150 ns  
120 ns  
tC  
tD  
tE  
tF  
DMACK to DMARQ delay  
DIOR-/DIOW- (min)  
215 ns  
150 ns  
5 ns  
80 ns  
60 ns  
5 ns  
70 ns  
DIOR- data access (min)  
DIOR- data hold (min)  
5 ns  
20 ns  
10 ns  
0
tG  
tH  
tI  
DIOR-/DIOW- data setup (min)  
DIOW- data hold (min)  
100 ns  
20 ns  
0
30 ns  
15 ns  
0
DMACK to DIOR-/DIOW- setup (min)  
DIOR-/DIOW- to DMACK hold (min)  
DIOR- negated pulse width (min)  
DIOW- negated pulse width (min)  
DIOR- to DMARQ delay (max)  
DIOW- to DMARQ delay (max)  
DMACK- to tristate (max)  
tJ  
20 ns  
50 ns  
215 ns  
120 ns  
40 ns  
20 ns  
5 ns  
5 ns  
tKr  
tKw  
tLr  
tLw  
tZ  
50 ns  
50 ns  
40 ns  
40 ns  
25 ns  
25 ns  
25 ns  
35 ns  
35 ns  
25 ns  
Figure 5 - 3  
Multi-word DMA Data Transfer  
5 – 4  
AT INTERFACE DESCRIPTION  
Ultra DMA Timing  
TIMING PARAMETERS (all times in nanoseconds)  
MODE 0  
MODE 1  
MODE 2  
MODE 3  
MODE 4  
MIN MAX MIN MAX MIN MAX MIN MAX MIN MAX  
tCYC  
Cycle Time (from STROBE edge to STROBE edge)  
112  
230  
73  
54  
39  
86  
25  
57  
t2CYC  
Two cycle time (from rising edge to next rising edge or  
from falling edge to next falling edge of STROBE)  
154  
115  
tDS  
tDH  
tDVS  
Data setup time (at recipient)  
Data hold time (at recipient)  
15  
5
10  
5
7
5
7
5
5
5
Data valid setup time at sender(time from data bus being  
valid until STROBE edge)  
70  
48  
30  
20  
6
tDVH  
Data valid hold time at sender (time from STROBE edge  
until data may go invalid)  
6
0
6
0
6
0
6
0
6
0
tFS  
tL I  
First STROBE (time for device to send first STROBE)  
230  
150  
200  
150  
170  
150  
130  
100  
120  
100  
Limited interlock time (time allowed between an action by  
one agent, either host or device, and the following action  
by the other agent)  
0
0
0
0
0
tMLI  
tUI  
Interlock time with minimum  
20  
0
20  
0
20  
0
20  
0
20  
0
Unlimited interlock time  
tAZ  
Maximum time allowed for outputs to release  
10  
10  
10  
10  
10  
tZAH  
tZAD  
tENV  
20  
0
20  
0
20  
0
20  
0
20  
0
Minimum delay time required for output drivers turning on  
(from released state)  
Envelope time (all control signal transitions are within the  
DMACK envelope by this much time)  
20  
70  
50  
75  
20  
70  
30  
70  
20  
70  
20  
60  
20  
55  
NA  
60  
20  
55  
NA  
60  
tSR  
STROBE to DMARDY (response time to ensure the  
synchronous pause case when the recipient is pausing)  
tRFS  
Ready-to-final-STROBE time (no more STROBE edges  
may be sent this long after receiving DMARDY- negation)  
tRP  
Ready-to-pause time (time until a recipient may assume  
that the sender has paused after negation of DMARDY-)  
160  
125  
100  
100  
100  
tIORDYZ  
Pull-up time before allowing IORDY to be released  
20  
20  
20  
20  
20  
tZIORDY Minimum time device shall wait before driving IORDY  
0
0
0
0
0
tACK  
Setup and hold times before assertion and negation of  
DMACK-  
20  
20  
20  
20  
20  
tSS  
Time from STROBE edge to STOP assertion when the  
sender is stopping  
50  
50  
50  
50  
50  
DMARQ  
(device)  
tUI  
DMACK-  
(host)  
tFS  
tACK  
tENV  
tZAD  
STOP  
(host)  
tFS  
tACK  
tENV  
HDMARDY-  
(host)  
tZAD  
tZIORDY  
DSTROBE  
(device)  
tAZ  
tVDS  
tDVH  
DD(15:0)  
tACK  
DA0, DA1, DA2,  
CS0-, CS1-  
Figure 5 - 4  
Initiating an Ultra DMA Data In Burst  
5 – 5  
AT INTERFACE DESCRIPTION  
t2CYC  
tCYC  
tCYC  
t2CYC  
DSTROBE  
at device  
tDVH  
tDVH  
tDVH  
tDVS  
tDVS  
DD(15:0)  
at device  
DSTROBE  
at host  
tDH  
tDS  
tDH  
tDS  
tDH  
DD(15:0)  
at host  
Figure 5 - 5  
Sustained Ultra DMA Data In Burst  
DMARQ  
(device)  
DMACK-  
(host)  
tRP  
STOP  
(host)  
SR  
t
HDMARDY-  
(host)  
tRFS  
DSTROBE  
(device)  
DD(15:0)  
(device)  
Figure 5 - 6  
Host Pausing an Ultra DMA Data In Burst  
5 – 6  
AT INTERFACE DESCRIPTION  
DMARQ  
(device)  
MLI  
t
DMACK-  
(host)  
ACK  
t
LI  
t
tLI  
STOP  
(host)  
tLI  
tACK  
HDMARDY-  
(host)  
tSS  
tIORDYZ  
DSTROBE  
(device)  
tZAH  
AZ  
t
DVS  
t
DVH  
t
DD(15:0)  
CRC  
ACK  
t
DA0, DA1, DA2,  
CS0-, CS1-  
Figure 5 - 7  
Device Terminating an Ultra DMA Data In Burst  
DMARQ  
(device)  
LI  
t
tMLI  
DMACK-  
(host)  
ZAH  
t
tAZ  
ACK  
t
tRP  
STOP  
(host)  
tACK  
HDMARDY-  
(host)  
tRFS  
MLI  
t
tLI  
tIORDYZ  
DSTROBE  
(device)  
tDVS  
tDVH  
tACK  
DD(15:0)  
CRC  
DA0, DA1, DA2,  
CS0-, CS1-  
Figure 5 - 8  
Host Terminating an Ultra DMA Data In Burst  
5 – 7  
AT INTERFACE DESCRIPTION  
DMARQ  
(device)  
tUI  
DMACK-  
(host)  
tACK  
tENV  
STOP  
(host)  
tZIORDY  
tLI  
tUI  
DDMARDY-  
(device)  
tACK  
HSTROBE  
(host)  
tDVS  
tDVH  
DD(15:0)  
(host)  
tACK  
DA0, DA1, DA2,  
CS0-, CS1-  
Figure 5 - 9  
Initiating an Ultra DMA Data Out Burst  
t2CYC  
tCYC  
tCYC  
2CYC  
t
HSTROBE  
at host  
DVH  
t
DVH  
t
DVH  
t
tDVS  
tDVS  
DD(15:0)  
at host  
HSTROBE  
at device  
tDH  
tDS  
tDH  
tDS  
tDH  
DD(15:0)  
at device  
Figure 5 - 10  
Sustained Ultra DMA Data Out Burst  
5 – 8  
AT INTERFACE DESCRIPTION  
RP  
t
DMARQ  
(device)  
DMACK-  
(host)  
STOP  
(host)  
tSR  
DDMARDY-  
(device)  
tRFS  
HSTROBE  
(host)  
DD(15:0)  
(host)  
Figure 5 - 11  
Device Pausing an Ultra DMA Data Out Burst  
tLI  
DMARQ  
(device)  
MLI  
t
DMACK-  
(host)  
tLI  
tACK  
SS  
t
STOP  
(host)  
tLI  
tIORDYZ  
DDMARDY-  
(device)  
tACK  
HSTROBE  
(host)  
tDVS  
tDVH  
DD(15:0)  
(host)  
CRC  
tACK  
DA0, DA1, DA2,  
CS0-, CS1-  
Figure 5 - 12  
Host Terminating an Ultra DMA Data Out Burst  
5 – 9  
AT INTERFACE DESCRIPTION  
DMARQ  
(device)  
DMACK-  
(host)  
tLI  
tMLI  
tACK  
STOP  
(host)  
RP  
t
tIORDYZ  
DDMARDY-  
(device)  
tRFS  
tMLI  
tACK  
tDVH  
tACK  
tLI  
HSTROBE  
(host)  
tDVS  
DD(15:0)  
(host)  
CRC  
DA0, DA1, DA2,  
CS0-, CS1-  
Figure 5 - 13  
Device Terminating an Ultra DMA Data Out Burst  
5 – 10  
SECTION 6  
Host Software Interface  
The host communicates with the drive through a set of controller registers accessed via the host’s I/O ports.  
These registers divide into two groups: the Task File, used for passing commands and command parameters and  
the Control/Diagnostic registers.  
Task File Registers  
The Task File consists of eight registers used to control fixed disk operations. The host accesses each register  
by the I/O port address shown in this Task File register map:  
I/O PORT  
1F0h  
READ  
WRITE  
Data Register  
Error Register  
Sector Count  
Sector Number  
Cylinder Low  
Cylinder High  
Drive/Head (SDH)  
Status Register  
Data Register  
Features Register  
Sector Count  
1F1h  
1F2h  
1F3h  
Sector Number  
Cylinder Low  
1F4h  
1F5h  
Cylinder High  
Drive/Head (SDH)  
Command Register  
1F6h  
1F7h  
Data Register  
Provides access to the drive’s sector buffer for read and write operations. With the exception of ECC byte  
transfers (which, during Read long and Write long commands, are 8 bits wide), data transfers through the  
Data register are all 16 bits wide.  
Error Register  
A read-only register containing specific information regarding the previous command. Data interpretation  
differs depending on whether the controller is in operational or diagnostic mode. A power up, reset,  
software reset, or receipt of a diagnostic command sets the controller into diagnostic mode. This mode  
invalidates contents of the Status register. The contents of the Error register reflect a completion code.  
Issuing any command (apart from a Diagnostic command) places the controller into operational mode.  
In operational mode, the Error register is valid only when the Error bit in the Status register is set. The bit  
definitions for operational mode follow:  
7
0
6
5
0
4
3
0
2
1
0
ECC  
IDNF  
ABRT  
TK0  
AMNF  
Interface  
CRC  
Data  
ECC Error  
Not  
Used  
ID  
Not  
Used  
Aborted  
Command  
Track 0  
Error  
Address  
Mark Not  
Found  
Not Found  
Interface CRC – An interface CRC error occurred during an Ultra DMA transfer.  
Data ECC Error – An non-correctable ECC error occurred during a Read Sector command.  
Firmware Problem – Indicates a firmware problem was detected, (e.g., invalid interrupt, divide overflow).  
ID Not Found – Either a matching ID field not found, or a CRC error occurred.  
Aborted Command – Invalid commands, write fault, no seek complete, or drive not ready.  
Track 0 Error – Track 0 was not found during execution of a Restore command.  
Address Mark Not Found – The Address Mark could not be found after an ID match.  
Features Register  
Enables or disables features through the Set Features command.  
6 – 1  
HOST SOFTWARE INTERFACE  
Sector Count Register  
Holds the number of sectors to be sent during a Read or Write command, and the number of sectors per  
track during a Format command. A value of zero in this register implies a transfer of 256 sectors. A multi-  
sector operation decrements the Sector Count register. If an error occurs during such an operation, this  
register contains the remaining number of sectors to be transferred.  
Sector Number Register  
Holds the starting sector number for any disk operation. The register is updated as each sector is processed in  
a multi-sector operation.  
Cylinder Number Registers  
Two 8-bit Cylinder Number registers (Low and High) specify the starting cylinder for disk operation.  
Device/Head Register  
Used to specify the drive and head number to be operated on during any disk operations. Within the  
context of a Set Parameters command, this register specifies the maximum number of heads on the drive.  
Bit definitions follow:  
7
1
6
5
1
4
3
2
1
0
LBA  
DRV  
HS3  
HS2  
HS1  
HS0  
LBA  
Drive  
Head  
Head  
Head  
Head  
Mode  
Select  
Select  
Select  
Select  
Select  
SelectLBAModeEnablingthisbitforcommandsnotsupportedbyLBAmodewillaborttheselectedcommand.Whenset,  
theTaskFileregistercontentsaredefinedasfollowsfortheRead/Writeandtranslatecommand:  
CONTENTS  
Sector Number  
Cylinder Low  
Cylinder High  
Drive/Head  
LBA BITS  
0 - 7  
8 - 15  
16 - 23  
24 - 27  
Drive Select – Set to 0 to select the master drive; set to 1 to select the slave drive.  
Head Select – Specifies the binary coded address of the head to be selected.  
Status Register  
Contains results of the last command executed, and the drive’s status. The other seven Task File registers may  
be read only when bit 7 (BUSY) of the Status register is low. Reading any of the Task File registers when  
BUSY is high returns the value of the Status register. Reading the Status register also clears any interrupt  
request to the host. Bit definitions follow:  
7
6
5
4
3
2
0
1
0
0
BUSY  
DRDY  
DF  
DSC  
DRQ  
ERR  
Error  
Controller  
Busy  
Device  
Ready  
Device  
Fault  
Device  
Seek  
Data  
Request  
Complete  
Controller Busy – Goes active when a command is written to the Command register, indicating controller  
task execution. After a command, this bit resets.  
Device Ready – Indicates that the drive is ready for commands. If drive ready is not present, all commands abort.  
Device Fault – Indicates the drive’s detection of a write fault condition, causing all commands to abort.  
Device Seek Complete – Signifies a seek completion, and that the drive is on track.  
Data Request – Indicates that the drive’s sector buffer is ready for data transfer.  
Error – The Error bit sets when the previous command has completed with a non-recoverable error.  
6 – 2  
HOST SOFTWARE INTERFACE  
Command Register  
Contains code for the command to be performed. Additional command information should be written to the  
task file before the Command register is loaded. When this register is written, the BUSY bit in the Status  
register sets, and interrupt request to the host clears; invalid commands abort. (Detailed information on interface  
commands is given in Section 7.) Hex values for valid command formats follow:  
Read Commands  
Read Sector(s)  
20h  
21h  
22h  
23h  
40h  
41h  
E4h  
C4h  
Normal reads; retries enabled  
Normal reads; retries disabled  
Read Long; retries enabled  
Read Long; retries disabled  
Retries enabled  
Read Verify Sector(s)  
Retries disabled  
Read Sector Buffer  
Read Multiple  
Read DMA  
C8h  
C9h  
No retries  
Write Commands  
Write Sector(s)  
30h  
31h  
32h  
33h  
Normal writes; retries enabled  
Normal writes; retries disabled  
Write Long; retries enabled  
Write Long; retries disabled  
Write Verify Sector(s)  
Write Sector Buffer  
Write Multiple  
3Ch  
E8h  
C5h  
CAh  
CBh  
Write DMA  
No retries  
Mode Set/Check Commands  
Set Features  
Set Multiple Mode  
EFh  
C6h  
Read Native Max Address F8h  
Set Max Mode  
F9h  
Power Mode Commands  
Standby Immediate  
Idle Immediate  
Standby  
94/E0h Stops drive spindle; do not change time-out value  
95/E1h Starts spindle; do not change time-out value  
96/E2h Stops spindle; change time-out value  
97/E3h Starts spindle; change time-out value  
98/E5h  
Idle  
Check Power Mode  
Set Sleep Mode  
99/E6h  
Initialization Commands  
Identify Drive  
Initialize Drive Parameters  
Re-calibrate  
ECh  
91h  
1xh  
Seek, Format, and Diagnostic Commands  
Seek  
7xh  
50h  
90h  
Format Track  
Execute Drive Diagnostic  
S.M.A.R.T. Commands  
Execute S.M.A.R.T.  
B0h  
6 – 3  
HOST SOFTWARE INTERFACE  
Summary  
C O M M A N D N A M E  
C O M M A N D C O D E  
P A R A M E T E R S U S E D  
b7  
0
0
1
0
1
0
0
0
0
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
b6  
0
0
1
0
1
0
1
1
1
0
0
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
b5  
0
1
0
1
0
1
0
0
1
0
0
1
1
1
1
0
0
0
1
1
b4  
1
0
0
1
0
1
0
1
1
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
b3  
x
b2  
x
b1  
x
b0  
x
F
S C  
N
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
N
N
Y
N
N
N
N
Y
Y
Y
N
Y
S N  
N
Y
C
N
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
N
N
N
N
N
Y
Y
N
N
Y
S D H  
D
Y
Recalibrate  
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
Y
N
N
N
N
N
Read Sector(s)  
R e a d D M A  
0
1
0
1
1
0
0
x
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
x
L
0
L
1
0
0
0
x
x
x
Y
Y
Write Sector(s)  
Write DMA  
x
Y
Y
x
Y
Y
Write Verify Sector(s)  
Read Verify Sector(s)  
Format Track  
0
x
Y
Y
Y
Y
0
x
N
Y
Y
S e e k  
Y
Execute Diagnostic  
Initialize Parameters  
Read Sector Buffer  
Write Sector Buffer  
Identify Drive  
0
0
0
1
1
1
0
0
0
1
1
0
0
1
0
1
1
1
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
1
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
1
0
1
0
0
1
N
N
N
N
N
N
Y
D
Y
D
D
D
D
Y
Set Features  
Read Multiple  
Write Multiple  
Y
Y
Set Multiple Mode  
Read Native Max Address  
Set Max  
N
N
Y
D
Y
Y
6 – 4  
HOST SOFTWARE INTERFACE  
Control Diagnostic Registers  
These I/O port addresses reference three Control/Diagnostic registers:  
I/O PORT  
3F6h  
READ  
WRITE  
Fixed Disk Control  
Not used  
Alternate Status  
Digital Input  
3F7h  
Alternate Status Register  
Contains the same information as the Status register in the Task File. However, this register may be read at  
any time without clearing a pending interrupt.  
Device Control Register  
Contains the software Reset and Enable bit to enable interrupt requests to the host. Bit definitions follow:  
7
0
6
0
5
0
4
0
3
0
2
1
0
0
SRST  
Reset  
IEN  
IRQ Enable  
Reset – Setting the software Reset bit holds the drive in the reset state. Clearing the bit re-enables the drive.  
The software Reset bit must be held active for a minimum of 5 µsec.  
IRQ Enable – Setting the Interrupt Request Enable to 0 enables the IRQ 14 signal to the host. When this  
bit is set to 1, IRQ14 is tri-stated, and interrupts to the host are disabled. Any pending interrupt occurs when  
the bit is set to 0. The default state of this bit after power up is 0 (interrupt enabled).  
Digital Input Register  
Contains information about the state of the drive. Bit definitions follow:  
7
x
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
-WG  
-HS3  
-HS2  
-HS1  
-HS0  
-DS1  
DS0  
Reserved  
Write  
Gate  
Head  
Select 3  
Head  
Select 2  
Head  
Select 1  
Head  
Select 0  
Drive  
Select 1  
Drive  
Select 0  
Bit 7 of the host data bus is not driven when this register is read.  
-Write Gate – Reflects the state of the active low write gate signal on the drive.  
-Head Select 3 through -Head Select 0 – Represents the ones complement of the currently selected head number.  
-Drive Select 1 – Is 0 if drive 1 selected; 1 otherwise.  
-Drive Select 0 – Is 0 if drive 0 selected; 1 otherwise.  
6 – 5  
HOST SOFTWARE INTERFACE  
Reset and Interrupt Handling  
Reset Handling  
One of three different conditions may cause a reset: power on, hardware reset or software reset. All three  
cause the interface processor to initialize itself and the Task File registers of the interface. A reset also causes a  
set of the Busy bit in the Status register. The Busy bit does not clear until the reset clears and the drive  
completes initialization. Completion of a reset operation does not generate a host interrupt.  
Task File registers are initialized as follows:  
Error  
1
1
1
0
0
0
Sector Count  
Sector Number  
Cylinder Low  
Cylinder High  
Drive/Head  
Interrupt Handling  
The drive requests data transfers to and from the host by asserting its IRQ 14 signal. This signal interrupts the  
host if enabled by bit 1 (IRQ enable) of the Fixed Disk Control register.  
Clear this interrupt by reading the Status register, writing the Command register, or by executing a host  
hardware or software reset.  
6 – 6  
SECTION 7  
Interface Commands  
The following section describes the commands (and any parameters necessary to execute them),  
as well as Status and Error register bits affected.  
Read Commands  
Read Sector(s)  
Read Verify Sector(s)  
Read Sector Buffer  
Read DMA  
Multi-word DMA  
Ultra DMA  
Read Multiple  
Set Multiple  
Write Commands  
Write Sector(s)  
Write Verify Sector(s)  
Write Sector Buffer  
Write DMA  
Multi-word DMA  
Ultra DMA  
Write Multiple  
Mode Set/Check Commands  
Set Features Mode  
Set Multiple Mode  
Set Max Mode  
Read Native Max Address  
Power Mode Commands  
Standby Immediate  
Idle Immediate  
Standby  
Idle  
Check Power Mode  
Set Sleep Mode  
Initialization Commands  
Identify Drive  
Initialize Drive Parameters  
S.M.A.R.T.  
7 – 1  
INTERFACE COMMANDS  
Read Commands  
Read Sector(s)  
Reads from 1 to 256 sectors, as specified in the Command Block, beginning at the specified sector. (A sector  
count of 0 requests 256 sectors.) Immediately after the Command register is written, the drive sets the BSY  
bit and begins execution of the command. If the drive is not already on the desired track, an implied seek is  
performed.  
Once at the desired track, the drive searches for the data address mark of the requested sector. The data  
address mark must be recognized within a specified number of bytes, or the Data Address Mark Not Found  
error will be reported. Assuming the data address mark is found:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
4.  
The data field is read into the sector buffer.  
Error bits are set (if an error was encountered).  
The DRQ bit is set.  
An interrupt is generated.  
The DRQ bit is always set, regardless of the presence or absence of an error condition after the sector.  
Upon command completion, the Command Block registers contain the numbers of the cylinder, head and  
sector of the last sector read. Back-to-back sector read commands set DRQ and generate an interrupt when  
the sector buffer is filled at the completion of each sector. The drive is then ready for the data to be read by  
the host. DRQ is reset and BSY is set immediately when the host empties the sector buffer.  
If an error occurs during Read Sector commands, the read terminates at the sector where the error occurred.  
The host may then read the Command Block to determine the nature of that error, and the sector where it  
happened. If the error type is a correctable or an non-correctable data error, the flawed data is loaded into  
the sector buffer.  
A Read Long command sets the Long bit in the command code and returns the data and the ECC bytes in  
the data field of the specified sector. During a Read Long, the drive does not check the ECC bytes to  
determine if there has been a data error. The Read Long command is limited to single sector requests.  
Read Verify Sector(s)  
Identical to the Read Sector(s) command, except that:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
DRQ is never set,  
No data is transferred back to the host and  
The long bit is not valid.  
7 – 2  
INTERFACE COMMANDS  
Read DMA  
Multi-word DMA  
Identical to the Read Sector(s) command, except that  
1.  
The host initializes a slave-DMA channel prior to issuing the command,  
2.  
Data transfers are qualified by DMARQ and are performed by the slave-DMA channel  
and  
3.  
The drive issues only one interrupt per command to indicate that data transfer has  
terminated and status is available.  
Ultra DMA  
With the Ultra DMA Read protocol, the control signal (DSTROBE) that latches data from DD(15:0) is  
generated by the devices which drives the data onto the bus. Ownership of DD(15:0) and this data strobe  
signal are given DSTROBE to the drive during an Ultra DMA data in burst.  
During an Ultra DMA Read burst, the drive always moves data onto the bus, and, after a sufficient time to  
allow for propagation delay, cable settling, and setup time, the sender shall generate a DSTROBE edge to  
latch the data. Both edges of DSTROBE are used for data transfers.  
Any unrecoverable error encountered during execution of a Read DMA command terminates data transfer  
after the transfer of all sectors prior to the sector where the error was detected. The sector in error is not  
transferred. The drive generates an interrupt to indicate that data transfer has terminated and status is  
available. The error posting is identical to the Read Sector(s) command.  
Read Multiple  
Performs similarly to the Read Sector(s) command, except that for each READ MULTIPLE command data  
transfers are multiple sector blocks and the Long bit is not valid.  
Execution is also similar to that of the READ SECTOR(S) command, except that:  
1.  
Several sectors are transferred to the host as a block, without intervening interrupts.  
2.  
DRQ qualification of the transfer is required only at the start of each block, not of each sector.  
The block count consists of the number of sectors to be transferred as a block. (The block count is  
programmed by the Set Multiple Mode command, which must be executed prior to the Read Multiple  
command.) READ LONG command is limited to single sector requests.  
When the Read Multiple command is issued, the Sector Count register contains the number of sectors  
requested — not the number of blocks or the block count. If the number of sectors is not evenly divisible  
by the block count, as many full blocks as possible are transferred, followed by a final, partial block transfer.  
This final, partial block transfer is for N sectors, where N = (sector count) modulo (block count)  
The Read Multiple operation will be rejected with an Aborted Command error if attempted:  
1.  
2.  
Before the Set Multiple Mode command has been executed, or  
When Read Multiple commands are disabled.  
The controller reports disk errors encountered during Read Multiple commands at the start of the block or  
partial block transfer. However, DRQ still sets, and the transfer occurs normally, along with the transfer of  
any corrupt data. Remaining block data from the following the sector in error is not valid.  
If the Sector Count register contains 0 when the Set Multiple Mode command is issued, Read Multiple and  
Write Multiple commands are disabled; no error is returned. Once the appropriate action has been taken, the  
controller resets BSY and generates an interrupt. At power up, or after a hardware or software reset, Read  
Multiple and Write Multiple commands are disabled by default.  
7 – 3  
INTERFACE COMMANDS  
Set Multiple Mode  
Enables the controller to perform Read and Write Multiple operations, and establishes the block count for  
these commands. Before issuing this command, the Sector Count register should be loaded with the number  
of sectors per block. The drives support block sizes of 2, 4, 8 and 16 sectors.  
When this command is received, the controller sets BSY and examines the Sector Count register contents. If  
they contain a valid and supported block count value, that value is loaded for all subsequent Read and Write  
Multiple commands, and execution of those commands is enabled. An invalid and unsupported block count  
in the register results in an Aborted Command error and disallows Read Multiple and Write Multiple  
commands.  
Write Commands  
Write Sector(s)  
Writes from 1 to 256 sectors, beginning at a sector specified in the Command Block. (A sector count of 0  
requests 256 sectors.)  
When the Command register is written, the drive sets the DRQ bit and waits for the host to fill the sector  
buffer with the data to be written. An interrupt is not generated to start the first buffer fill operation.  
Once the buffer is full, the drive resets DRQ, sets BSY, and begins command execution. If the drive is not  
already on the desired track, an implied seek is performed.  
The data loaded in the buffer is written to the data field of the sector, followed by the ECC bytes. Upon  
command completion, the Command Block registers contain the cylinder, head and sector number of the  
last sector written. The next time the buffer is ready to be filled during back-to-back Write Sector  
commands, DRQ is set and an interrupt is generated.  
After the host fills the buffer, DRQ is reset and BSY is set. If an error occurs, Write Sector operations  
terminate at the sector containing the error.  
The Command Block registers then contain the numbers of the cylinder, head and sector where the error  
occurred. The host may read the Command Block to determine the nature of that error, and on which  
sector it happened. A Write Long may be executed by setting the Long bit in the command code. The  
Write Long command writes the data and the ECC bytes directly from the sector buffer; the drive itself does  
not generate the ECC bytes. Restrict Write Long commands to PIO Mode 0.  
Write Verify Sector(s)  
Identical to the Write Sector(s) command, except that the requested sectors are verified immediately after  
being written. The verify operation reads (without transferring), and checks for data errors. Any errors  
encountered during this operation are reported.  
Write Sector Buffer  
Allows the host to overwrite the contents of the drive’s sector buffer with a selected data pattern. When this  
command is received, the drive:  
1. Sets BSY,  
2. Sets up the sector buffer for a write operation,  
3. Sets DRQ,  
4. Resets BSY and  
5. Generates an interrupt.  
The host may then write up to 256 words of data to the buffer. A disk write task begins to store the host  
data to disk. Host write commands continue to be accepted and data transferred to the buffer until either  
the write command stack is full or the data buffer is full. The drive may reorder write commands to optimize  
drive throughput.  
7 – 4  
INTERFACE COMMANDS  
Write Multiple  
Performs similarly to the Write Sector(s) command, except that:  
1. The controller sets BSY immediately upon receipt of the command,  
2. Data transfers are multiple sector blocks and  
3. The Long bit and Retry bit is not valid.  
Command execution differs from Write Sector(s) because:  
1. Several sectors transfer to the host as a block without intervening interrupts.  
2. DRQ qualification of the transfer is required at the start of the block, not on each sector.  
The block count consists of the number of sectors to be transferred as a block and is programmed by the Set  
Multiple Mode command, which must be executed prior to the Write Multiple command. When the Write  
Multiple command is issued, the Sector Count register contains the number of sectors requested — not the  
number of blocks or the block count.  
If the number of sectors is not evenly divisible by the block count, as many full blocks as possible are  
transferred, followed by a final, partial block transfer. This final, partial block transfer is for N sectors, where  
N = (sector count) modulo (block count)  
The Write Multiple operation will be rejected with an Aborted Command error if attempted:  
1. Before the Set Multiple Mode command has been executed, or  
2. When Write Multiple commands are disabled.  
All disk errors encountered during Write Multiple commands report after the attempted disk write of the  
block or partial block in which the error occurred.  
The write operation ends with the sector in error, even if it was in the middle of a block. When an error  
occurs, subsequent blocks are not transferred. When DRQ is set at the beginning of each full and partial  
block, interrupts are generated.  
Write DMA  
Multi-word DMA  
Identical to the Write Sector(s) command, except that:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
The host initializes a slave-DMA channel prior to issuing the command,  
Data transfers are qualified by DMARQ and are performed by the slave-DMA channel and  
The drive issues only one interrupt per command to indicate that data transfer has terminated  
at status is available.  
Ultra DMA  
With the Ultra DMA Write protocol, the control signal (HSTROBE) that latches data from DD(15:0) is  
generated by the devices which drives the data onto the bus. Ownership of DD(15:0) and this data  
strobe signal are given to the host for an Ultra DMA data out burst.  
During an Ultra DMA Write burst, the host always moves data onto the bus, and, after a sufficient time to  
allow for propagation delay, cable settling, and setup time, the sender shall generate a HSTROBE edge to  
latch the data. Both edges of HSTROBE are used for data transfers.  
Any error encountered during Write DMA execution results in the termination of data transfer. The drive  
issues an interrupt to indicate that data transfer has terminated and status is available in the error register.  
The error posting is the same as that of the Write Sector(s) command.  
7 – 5  
INTERFACE COMMANDS  
Mode Set/Check Commands  
Set Features Mode  
Enables or disables features supported by the drive. When the drive receives this command it:  
1. Sets BSY,  
2. Checks the contents of the Features register,  
3. Clears BSY and  
4. Generates an interrupt.  
If the value of the register is not a feature supported by the drive, the command is aborted.  
The acceptable values in the Features register are defined as follows:  
VALUE DESCRIPTION  
02h  
03h  
05h  
42h  
Enabled Write Cache  
Set Transfer Mode based on value in Sector Count register  
Enable Advanced Power Management  
Enable Automatic Acoustic Management. The sector count register contains the  
Automatic Acoustic Management level.  
SECTOR  
FFh  
LEVEL  
Maxtor specific  
FEh  
Maximum performance  
Intermediate acoustic management levels  
Minimum acoustic emanation level  
reserved  
81h-FDh  
80h  
00h-7Fh  
44h  
Length of data appended on Read Long/Write Long commands specified in the  
Identify Device information  
55h  
66h  
82h  
85h  
AAh  
BBh  
C2h  
CCh  
Disable Read Look-ahead feature  
Disable reverting to Power-on defaults  
Disable Write Cache  
Disable Advanced Power Management  
Enable Read Look-ahead feature  
4 bytes of Maxtor specific data appended on Read Long/Write Long commands  
Disable Automatic Acoustic Management  
Enable reverting to Power-on defaults  
7 – 6  
INTERFACE COMMANDS  
Read Native Max Address  
This command returns the native maximum address. The native maximum address is the highest address  
accepted by the drive in the factory default condition. The native maximum address is the maximum address  
that is valid when using the SET MAX ADDRESS command.  
Set Max  
Individual SET MAX commands are identified by the value placed in the Features register. After successful  
command completion, all read and write access attempts to addresses greater than specified by the successful  
SET MAX ADDRESS command are rejected with an IDNF error. IDENTIFY DEVICE response words 1,  
54, 57, 60 and 71 will reflect the maximum address set with this command.  
VALUE  
00h  
COMMAND  
obsolete  
01h  
Set Max Set Password  
Set Max Lock  
02h  
03h  
Set Max Unlock  
Set Max Freeze Lock  
04h  
05h-FFh reserved  
Set Max Password  
This sub-command requests a transfer of a single sector of data from the host. The password is retained by  
the drive until the next power cycle.  
Set Max Lock  
After this sub-command is completed any other SET MAX commands except SET MAX UNLOCK and  
SET MAX FREEZE LOCK are rejected. The drive remains in this state until a power cycle or the  
acceptance of a SET MAX UNLOCK or SET MAX FREEZE LOCK command.  
Set Max Unlock  
This sub-command requests a transfer of a single sector of data from the host. The password supplied in the  
sector of data transferred will be compared with the stored SET MAX password.  
If the password compare fails, then the drive returns command aborted and decrements the unlock counter.  
On the acceptance of the SET MAX LOCK command, this counter is set to a value of five and will be  
decremented for each password mismatch when SET MAX UNLOCK is issued and the drive is locked.  
When this counter reaches zero, then the SET MAX UNLOCK command will return command aborted  
until a power cycle.  
If the password compare matches, then the drive will make a transition to the Set_Max_Unlocked state and  
all SET MAX commands will be accepted.  
Set Max Freeze Lock  
After sub-command completion any subsequent SET MAX commands are rejected. Commands disabled by  
SET MAX FREEZE LOCK are:  
Set Max Address  
Set Max Set Password  
Set Max Lock  
Set Max Unlock  
7 – 7  
INTERFACE COMMANDS  
Power Mode Commands  
Standby Immediate – 94h/E0h  
Spin down and do not change time out value. This command will spin the drive down and cause the drive  
to enter the STANDBY MODE immediately. If the drive is already spun down, the spin down sequence is  
not executed.  
Idle Immediate – 95h/E1h  
Spin up and do not change time out value. This command will spin up the spin motor if the drive is spun  
down, and cause the drive to enter the IDLE MODE immediately. If the drive is already spinning, the spin  
up sequence is not executed. The actuator is parked and some circuits are powered off.  
Standby – 96h/E2h  
Spin down and change time out value. This command will spin the drive down and cause the drive to enter  
the STANDBY MODE immediately. If the drive is already spun down, the spin down sequence is not  
executed. A non-zero value placed in the sector count register will enable the Automatic Power Down  
sequence. The timer will begin counting down when the drive returns to the IDLE MODE. A value of zero  
placed in the sector count register will disable the Automatic Power Down sequence.  
Idle – 97h/E3h  
Spin up and change time out value. This command will spin-up the spin motor if the drive is spun-down.  
If the drive is already spinning, the spin up sequence is not executed. A non-zero value placed in the Sector  
Count register will enable the Automatic Power Down sequence and their timer will begin counting down  
immediately. A value of zero placed in the Sector Count register will disable the Automatic Power Down  
sequence. The actuator is parked and some circuits are powered off.  
TIMER VALUE  
TIME-OUT PERIOD  
Time-out disabled  
0
1 - 240  
241 - 251  
252  
(value * 5) seconds  
((value - 240) * 30) minutes  
21 minutes  
253  
Vendor unique period = 10 hours  
Reserved  
254  
255  
21 minutes, 15 seconds  
Check Power Mode – 98h/E5h  
This command returns a code in the Sector Count register that determines the current Power Mode status of  
the drive. If the drive is in, going to, or recovering from the STANDBY MODE the drive sets the Sector  
Count register to OOh. If the drive is in the IDLE MODE or ACTIVE MODE, the drive sets the Sector  
Count register to FFh.  
Set Sleep Mode – 99h/E6h  
This command will spin the drive down and cause the drive to enter the SLEEP MODE immediately. If the  
drive is already spun down, the spin down sequence is not executed.  
Note: The only way to recover from SLEEP MODE is with a software reset or a hardware reset.  
7 – 8  
INTERFACE COMMANDS  
Default Power-on Condition  
The drive’s default power on condition is the ACTIVE MODE.  
Upon receiving a Power Mode command, except the SLEEP MODE command, the drive sets BSY and  
performs the requested power operation. Once the requested Power Mode change has begun, the drive  
resets BSY and generates an interrupt - without waiting for the drive to spin up or spin down. Upon  
receiving a SLEEP MODE command the drive is spun down, and when it is stopped, the drive resets BSY  
and generates an interrupt.  
When enabling the Automatic Power Down sequence, the value placed in the Sector Count register is  
multiplied by five seconds to obtain the Time-out Interval value. If no drive commands are received from  
the host within the Time-out Interval, the drive automatically enters the STANDBY mode. The minimum  
value is 5 seconds.  
While the drive is in STANDBY MODE, any commands received from the host are accepted and executed  
as they would in normal operation, except that the spin motor is started if required to execute a disk  
command. Under these conditions, the drive will set BSY when command processing would normally begin  
and will leave BSY set until the drive comes up to speed and the disk command can be executed. Disk  
commands issued while the drive is in STANDBY MODE, restarts the Time-out Interval after completing  
the command. A reset must be issued before attempting to issue any commands while the drive in  
SLEEP MODE.  
7 – 9  
INTERFACE COMMANDS  
Initialization Commands  
Identify Drive  
Allows the host to receive parameter information from the drive.  
When the command is received, the drive:  
1. Sets BSY,  
2. Stores the required parameter information in the sector buffer,  
3. Sets the DRQ bit and  
4. Generates an interrupt.  
The host may then read the information out of the sector buffer. Parameter words in the buffer follow.  
Note that all reserved bits or words should be zeroes.  
WORD  
CONTENT DESCRIPTION  
0
General configuration  
15 = device (0 = ATA device, 1 = ATAPI)  
14-8 = retired  
7, 1 = removable media device  
6, 1 = not removable controller and/or device  
5-3 = retired  
2 = response incomplete  
1 = retired  
0 = reserved  
1
Number of logical cylinders  
2
3
Reserved  
Number of logical heads  
4-5  
Retired  
6
Number of logical sectors per logical track  
7-8  
Reserved  
9
Retired  
10 - 19  
20 - 21  
22  
Drive serial number (20 ASCII characters)  
Retired  
Obsolete  
23 - 26  
27 - 46  
47  
Firmware revision (8 ASCII characters)  
Model number (40 ASCII characters)  
Maximum number of sectors that can be transferred per interrupt on read and write multiple commands  
48  
Reserved  
49  
Capabilities  
15 - 14 = reserved  
13 = standby timer (1 = values as specified in this standard are supported, 0 = values are Maxtor specific)  
12 = reserved (advanced PIO mode support)  
11, 1 = IORDY supported, 0 = IORDY may be supported  
10, 1 = IORDY can be disabled  
9-8 = shall be set to one. Used by Identify Packet Device command.  
7-0 = not used  
7 – 10  
INTERFACE COMMANDS  
-WORD CONTENT DESCRIPTION  
50 Reserved  
51 - 52 Obsolete  
53  
15-3 = reserved  
2, 1 = the fields supported in words 88 are valid, 0 = the fields supported in words 88 are not valid  
1, 1 = the fields reports in words 64-70 are valid, 0 = the fields reports in words 64-70 are not valid  
0, 1 = the fields reports in words 54-58 are valid, 0 = the fields reports in words 54-58 are not valid  
Number of current logical cylinders  
54  
55  
56  
Number of current logical heads  
Number of logical sectors per track  
57 - 58 Current capacity in sectors  
59  
15-9 = reserved  
8, 1 = multiple sector setting is valid  
7-0 xxh = current setting for number of sectors that canbe transferred per interrupt on Read/Write Multiple  
command  
60 - 61 Total number of user addressable sectors (LBA mode only)  
62  
63  
obsolete  
15-11 = reserved  
10, 1 = Multi-word DMA mode 2 is selected, 0 = Multi-word DMA mode 2 is not selected  
9, 1 = Multi-word DMA mode 1 is selected, 0 = Multi-word DMA mode 1 is not selected  
8, 1 = Multi-word DMA mode 0 is selected, 0 = Multi-word DMA mode 0 is not selected  
7-3, = reserved  
2, 1 = Multi-word DMA mode 2 and below are supported  
1, 1 = Multi-word DMA mode 1 and below are supported  
0, 1 = Multi-word DMA mode 0 is supported  
7-0 = Multi=word DMA transfer modes supported  
64  
65  
15-8 = reserved, 7-0 = advanced PIO transfer modes supported  
Minimum multi-word DMA transfer cycle time per word (15-0 = cycle time in nanoseconds)  
66  
Manufacturer's recommeded multi-word DMA transfer cycle time (15-0 = cycle time in nanoseconds)  
Minimum PIO transfer cycle time without flow control (15-0 = cycle time in nanoseconds)  
Minimum PIO transfer cycle time with IORDY flow control (15-0 = cycle time in nanoseconds)  
reserved  
67  
68  
69-74  
75  
Queue depth, 15-3 = reserved, 4-0, maximum queue depth - 1  
76-79  
80  
reserved  
Major version number  
15, reserved, 14-6 = reserved for ATA/ATAPI-14 to ATA/ATAPI-6 respectively  
5, 1 = supports ATA/ATAPI-5  
4, 1 = supports ATA/ATAPI-4  
3, 1 = supports ATA-3  
2, 1 = supports ATA-2  
1, obsolete  
0, reserved  
81  
82  
Minor version number  
Command set supported. If words 82 and 83 = 0000h or FFFFh command set notification not supported.  
15, obsolete  
14, 1 = supports the NOP command  
13, 1 = supports the Read Buffer command  
12, 1 = supports the Write Buffer command  
11, obsolete  
10, 1 = supports Host-Protected Area feature set  
9, 1 = supports the Device Reset command  
8, 1 = supports Service Interupt  
7, 1 = supports Release Interupt  
6, 1 = supports Look Ahead  
5, 1 = supports Write Cache  
4, shall be cleared to zero  
3, 1 = supports the Power Management feature command  
2, 1 = supports the RemovableMedia feature command  
1, 1 = supports the SecurityMode feature command  
0, 1 = supports the SMART feature set  
7 – 11  
INTERFACE COMMANDS  
WORD  
CONTENT DESCRIPTION  
83  
Command sets supported. If words 82 and 83 = 0000h or FFFFh command set notification not supported.  
15-10, as currently defined  
9, 1 = Automatic Acoustic Management feature set supported  
8-0, as currently defined  
84  
85  
Command set extensions supported. If words 84, 85 and 86 = 0000h or FFFFh command set notification not  
supported.  
15 = shall be cleared to zero  
14 = shall be set to one  
13-0 = reserved  
Command set enabled. If words 84, 85 and 86 = 0000h or FFFFh command set notification not supported.  
15, obsolete  
14, 1 = NOP command enabled  
13, 1 = Read Buffer command enabled  
12, 1 = Write Buffer command enabled  
11, obsolete  
10, 1 = Host Protected Area feature set enabled  
9, 1 = Device Reset command enabled  
8, 1 = Service Interrupt enabled  
7, 1 = Release Interrupt enabled  
6, 1 = Look Ahead enabled  
5, 1 = Write Cache enabled  
4, 1 = Packet command feature set enabled  
3, 1 = Power Mangement feature set enabled  
2, 1 = Removable Media feature set enabled  
1, 1 = Security Mode feature set enabled  
0, 1 = SMART feature set enabled  
Command sets supported. If words 82 and 83 = 0000h or FFFFh command set notification not supported.  
15-10, as currently defined  
9, 1 = Automatic Acoustic Management feature set supported  
8-0, as currently defined  
Ultra DMA  
86  
88  
15-13 reserved  
12  
11  
10  
9
1 = Ultra DMA mode 4 is selected  
0 = Ultra DMA mode 4 is not selected  
1 = Ultra DMA mode 3 is selected  
0 = Ultra DMA mode 3 is not selected  
1 = Ultra DMA mode 2 is selected  
0 = Ultra DMA mode 2 is not selected  
1 = Ultra DMA mode 1 is selected  
0 = Ultra DMA mode 1 is not selected  
1 = Ultra DMA mode 0 is selected  
0 = Ultra DMA mode 0 is not selected  
8
7-5 reserved  
4
3
2
1
0
1 = Ultra DMA mode 4 and below are supported  
1 = Ultra DMA mode 3 and below are supported  
1 = Ultra DMA mode 2 and below are supported  
1 = Ultra DMA mode 1 and below are supported  
1 = Ultra DMA mode 0 is supported  
127  
128  
reserved  
Security Status  
15-9 reserved  
8
Security Level 0 = High, 1 = Maximum  
7-5 reserved  
4
3
2
1
0
1 = Security count expired  
1 = Security frozen  
1 = Security locked  
1 = Security enabled  
1 = Security supported  
129-130  
131  
reserved  
Spin at power-up, but 0 is asserted when no spin at power-up is enabled.  
132-159  
160-255  
Maxtor-specific (not used)  
reserved  
7 – 12  
INTERFACE COMMANDS  
Initialize Drive Parameters  
Enables the drive to operate as any logical drive type. The drive will always be in the translate mode because  
of Zone Density Recording, which varies the number of sectors per track depending on the zone.  
Through setting the Sector Count Register and Drive Head Register, this command lets the host alter the  
drive's logical configuration. As a result, the drive can operate as any equal to or less than capacity drive type.  
Do not exceed the total number of sectors available on the drive:  
When this command is executed, the drive reads the Sector Counter Register and the Drive Head Register  
(and so determines the number of the logical sectors per track and maximum logical head number per  
cylinder and will calculate the number of logical cylinders.)  
Upon receipt of the command, the drive:  
1. Sets BSY,  
2. Saves the parameters,  
3. Resets BSY and  
4. Generates an interrupt.  
To specify maximum heads, write 1 less than the maximum (e.g. write 4 for a 5 head drive). To specify  
maximum sectors, specify the actual number of sectors (e.g. 17 for a maximum of 17 sectors/track).  
The sector count and head values are not checked for validity by this command. If they are invalid, no error  
will be posted until an illegal access is made by some other command.  
Moves the read/write heads from anywhere on the disk to cylinder 0.  
When this command is received, the drive:  
1. Sets BSY and  
2. Issues a seek to cylinder zero.  
The drive waits for the seek to complete, then the drive:  
1. Updates status,  
2. Resets BSY and  
3. Generates an interrupt.  
If the drive cannot reach cylinder 0, the Error bit is set in the Status register, and the Track 0 bit is set in the  
Error register.  
NOTE: If a maximum head and sector number is selected – such that the number of cylinders will exceed 65,535 – then  
the maximum cylinder value will be reduced to 65, 535.  
7 – 13  
INTERFACE COMMANDS  
Seek, Format and Diagnostic Commands  
Seek  
Initiates a seek to the track, and selects the head specified in the Command block.  
1. Sets BSY in the Status register,  
2. Initiates the Seek,  
3. Resets BSY and  
4. Generates an interrupt.  
The drive does not wait for the seek to complete before returning the interrupt. If a new command is issued  
to a drive during the execution of a Seek command, the drive will wait (with BSY active) for the Seek to  
complete before executing the new command.  
Format Track  
Formats the track specified in the Command Block. Shortly after the Command register is written, the drive  
sets the bit, and waits for the host to fill the sector buffer with the interleave table. When the buffer is full,  
the drive resets DRQ, sets BSY and begins command execution. If the drive is not already on the desired  
track, an implied seek is performed. Once at the desired track the data fields are written with all zeroes.  
Execute Drive Diagnostic  
Commands the drive to implement the internal diagnostic tests. (These tests are executed only upon  
command receipt; they do not run automatically at power up or after a reset.)  
The drive sets BSY immediately upon receiving this command. The following table presents the codes and  
their descriptions. Note that the value in the Error register should be viewed as a unique 8 bit Code.  
ERROR CODE DESCRIPTION  
01  
00  
No error detected  
Master drive failed  
80, 82  
81  
Master and slave drives failed  
Slave drive failed  
Note: If a slave drive fails diagnostics, the master drive OR’s 80h with its own status, and loads that code  
into the Error register. If a slave drive passes diagnostics (or a slave is absent), the master drive OR’s 00  
with its own status and loads that code into the Error register.  
7 – 14  
INTERFACE COMMANDS  
S.M.A.R.T. Command Set  
Execute S.M.A.R.T.  
The Self-Monitoring Analysis and Reporting Technology (S.M.A.R.T.) command has been implemented to  
improve the data integrity and data availability of hard disk drives. In some cases, a S.M.A.R.T. capable device  
will predict an impending failure with sufficient time to allow users to backup their data and replace the  
drive before data loss or loss of service. In addition to S.M.A.R.T., DiamondMax drives support DST and all  
of its options.  
The S.M.A.R.T. sub-commands (listed below) comprise the ATA S.M.A.R.T. feature set that provide access  
to S.M.A.R.T. attribute values, attribute thresholds and other logging and reporting information. Prior to  
writing a S.M.A.R.T. command to the device’s command register, key values must be written by the host  
into the device’s Cylinder Low and Cylinder High registers, or the command will be aborted. For any  
S.M.A.R.T. sub-command, if a device register is not specified as being written with a value by the host, then  
the value in that register is undefined and will be ignored by the device.  
The key values are:  
Key  
4Fh  
C2h  
Register  
Cylinder Low (1F4h)  
Cylinder High (1F5h)  
The S.M.A.R.T. sub-commands use a single command code (B0h) and are differentiated from one another  
by the value placed in the Features register. In order to issue a command, the host must write the sub-  
command-specific code to the device’s Features register before writing the command code to the command  
register. The sub-commands and their respective codes are:  
D0h  
D1h  
D2h  
S.M.A.R.T. Read Attribute Value  
This feature returns 512 bytes of attribute information to the host.  
S.M.A.R.T. Read Attribute Thresholds  
This feature returns 512 bytes of warranty failure thresholds to the host.  
Enable/Disable Autosave  
To enable this feature, set the sector count register to F1h (enable) or 0 (disable). Attribute values  
are automatically saved to non-volatile storage on the device after five minutes of idle time and  
before entering idle, sleep or standby modes. This feature is defaulted to “enabled” when  
S.M.A.R.T. is enabled via the S.M.A.R.T. Enable Operations commands. The autosave feature  
will not impact host system performance and does not need to be disabled.  
D3h  
D4h  
S.M.A.R.T. Save Attribute Value  
This feature saves the current attribute values to non-volatile storage.  
Perform Off-Line Data Collection/DST  
Data is collected from random seeks, timed pattern seek times and head margin tests. Supports  
captive long and short; and non-captive long and short.  
D5h  
D6h  
S.M.A.R.T. Read Log Sector  
Allows the host to read S.M.A.R.T. error log and host vendor-specific sectors.  
S.M.A.R.T. Write Log Sector  
Allows the host to write S.M.A.R.T. error log and host vendor-specific sectors.  
D8h  
D9h  
DAh  
Enable S.M.A.R.T.  
Disable S.M.A.R.T.  
S.M.A.R.T. Return Status  
This feature allows the host to assess the status of a S.M.A.R.T. capable device by comparing all  
saved attribute values with their corresponding warranty failure thresholds. If no thresholds are  
exceeded, the drive is declared to have a positive health status. If any warranty failure threshold is  
exceeded, the drive is declared to have a negative health status. Executing this sub-command  
results in all attribute values being saved to non-volatile storage on the device.  
DBh  
Enable/Disable Automatic Off-Line  
To enable this feature, set the Sector Count register to F1h or 0 to disable.  
7 – 15  
SECTION 8  
Service and Support  
Service Policy  
®
If a customer discovers a defect in a DiamondMax 60 drive, Maxtor will, at its option, repair or replace the  
disk drive at no charge to the customer, provided it is returned during the warranty period. Drives must be  
properly packaged in Maxtor packaging or Maxtor-approved packaging to obtain warranty service. Any  
unauthorized repairs or adjustments to the drive void the warranty.  
To consistently provide our customers with the best possible products and services, Maxtor developed the  
Total Customer Satisfaction (TCS) program. Through the ongoing TCS process, Maxtor employees take  
direct responsibility for every customer’s level of satisfaction – with Maxtor technology, price, quality,  
delivery, service and support.  
®
No Quibble Service  
Another TCS feature is Maxtor’s No Quibble® Service policy. By minimizing paperwork and processing,  
No Quibble Service dramatically cuts the turnaround time normally required for repairs and returns.  
Here’s how it works:  
1. Customer calls 1-800-2MAXTOR for a Return Material Authorization (RMA) number  
and provides a credit card number,  
2. Maxtor ships a replacement drive within 2 business days, and  
3. Customer returns the original drive and credit card draft is destroyed.  
Support  
Technical Assistance  
Highly-trained technicians are available 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Mountain Standard Time) Monday through Friday  
to provide detailed technical support.  
U.S. and Canada  
Language support: English, Spanish  
800-2MAXTOR, press 1 (800-262-9867)  
303-678-2260  
Voice  
E-mail  
Fax  
Outside U.S. and Canada  
303-678-2015  
Europe  
Voice  
E-mail  
Fax  
Language support: English, French, German  
+ 353 1 286 62 22  
+ 353 1 286 45 77  
Asia/Pacific  
Voice  
Contact your local Maxtor Sales Office for assistance  
Language support: English  
E-mail  
MaxInfo Service  
Use a touch-tone phone to listen to technical information about Maxtor products and the top Q&A’s  
from our 24-hour automated voice system.  
U.S. and Canada  
800-2MAXTOR (800-262-9867)  
Press 1, wait for announcement, listen for option  
303-678-2015, listen for option  
Outside U.S. and Canada  
8 – 1  
SERVICE AND SUPPORT  
MaxFax Service  
Use a touch-tone phone to order Technical Reference Sheets, Drive Specifications, Installation Sheets and other  
documents from our 24-hour automated fax retrieval system. Requested items are sent to your fax machine.  
U.S. and Canada  
Phone  
Outside U.S. and Canada  
Europe  
Language support: English  
800-2MAXTOR, listen for option (800-262-9867)  
303-678-2618  
Language support: English, French, German  
+ 353 1 204 11 22  
Phone  
Asia/Pacific  
Phone  
Language support: English  
+ 61 2 9369 4733  
Internet  
Browse the Maxtor home page on Internet, download files from our FTP site.  
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Fax  
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Europe  
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Language support: English, French, German  
+ 353 1 286 62 22  
E-mail  
Fax  
+ 353 1 286 14 19  
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Call Singapore Customer Service from the countries listed below.  
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1-800-124-328  
+800-96-3387  
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Hong Kong  
Indonesia  
Japan  
South Korea  
Malaysia  
New Zealand  
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Thailand  
8 – 2  
GLOSSARY  
Glossary  
BPI  
A
Acronym for bits per inch. See bit density.  
BLOCK  
ACCESS  
A group of bytes handled, stored, and accessed as a logical data  
unit, such as an individual file record.  
To obtain data from, or place data into, RAM, a register, or data  
storage device.  
BUFFER  
ACCESSTIME  
A temporary data storage area that compensates for a difference in  
data transfer rates and/or data processing rates between sender  
and receiver.  
The interval between the issuing of an access command and the  
instant that the target data may be read or written. Access time  
includes seek time, latency and controller overhead time.  
BUS  
ADDRESS  
A collection of functionally parallel conductors that forms an  
interconnection between functional blocks in a digital device. A  
length of parallel conductors that forms a major interconnection  
route between the computer system CPU (central processing unit)  
and its peripheral subsystems. Depending on its design, a bus may  
carry data, addresses, power, and more.  
A number, generally binary, distinguishing a specific member of an  
ordered set of locations. In disk engineering, the address may  
consist of drives (unit address), radial positions (cylinder address),  
or circumferential position (sector address).  
ALLOCATION  
A process of assigning designated areas of the disk to particular  
files.  
BYTE  
An ordered collection of bits treated as a unit. Most often, a byte is  
understood to consist of eight bits. One byte is necessary to define  
an alphanumeric character.  
ALTERNATETRACK  
A spare track used in the event that a normal track becomes  
damaged or is unusable.  
C
ANALOG  
A signal or system that does not use digital states to convey  
information. A signal may have any number of significant states  
(values), contrasted to digital signals which can only have two  
states.  
CACHE  
Random access memory (RAM) used as a buffer between the CPU  
and the disk drive.  
ANSI  
CAPACITY  
American National Standards Institute.  
The amount of data, usually expressed in bytes, which can be stored  
in a given device or portion of same.  
APPLICATIONPROGRAM  
A sequence of programmed instructions that tell the computer how  
to perform some end-user task, such as accounting or word  
processing.  
CENTRALPROCESSINGUNIT(CPU)  
The heart of the computer system that executes programmed  
instructions. It includes the arithmetic logic unit (ALU) for performing  
all math and logic operations, a control section for interpreting and  
executing instructions, internal memory for temporary storage of  
program variables and other functions.  
AREALDENSITY  
Bit density (bits per inch) multiplied by track density (tracks per inch)  
or bits per square inch.  
CHANNEL  
A collection of electronic circuits used in the process of writing and  
reading information to and from magnetic media.  
ASYMMETRY  
A distortion of the readback signal which is shown in different  
intervals between the positive and negative voltage peaks.  
CHARACTER  
An ordered collection of bits representing one of a set of  
predefined symbols. Often the term is used interchangeably with  
byte, but this is inexact.  
AUXILIARYMEMORY  
Memory other than main memory; generally a mass-storage  
subsystem containing disk drives and backup tape drives,  
controller(s) and buffer memory (also called peripheral memory).  
CLOSEDLOOP  
A control technique that enables the positioning system to correct  
off-track errors in real time. The actual head position is monitored  
and compared to the ideal track position to determine any position  
error that might be occurring. This information is then used to  
produce a correction signal (feedback) that goes to the positioner  
to correct the error. (See also track following servo).  
AVERAGEACCESSTIME  
The average time to make all possible length accesses (seeks).  
AVERAGESEEKTIME  
The average time to make all possible length seeks. A typical  
measure of performance.  
CLOSEDLOOPSERVO  
A servo control technique that uses position feedback to correct  
off-track errors. See Track Following Servo.  
B
BADBLOCK  
CLUSTER  
A block that cannot store data because of a media flaw.  
The smallest allocatable unit of disk storage allowed by MS-DOS;  
each FAT entry represents one cluster.  
BIT  
An abbreviation for binary digit, of which there are two (0 and 1). A  
bit is the basic data unit of most digital computers. A bit is usually  
part of a data byte or word, but bits may be used singly to control or  
read logic “on-off” functions. The fundamental unit information,  
often used loosely to refer to a circuit or magnetization state at a  
particular instant in time.  
CONTROLLER  
An electronic device for connecting one or more mass storage  
peripherals (rigid disk drives, tape drives, and optical disk drives) to  
the input/output circuits of a host computer. Controllers vary in  
complexity, with more sophisticated units able to buffer and  
schedule commands, correct data errors, and bypass media defects  
without host intervention.  
BIOS  
Acronym for Basic Input/Output System. The firmware area of a CPU  
that controls operations through the system bus and to the  
attached cards and peripheral devices.  
GL – 1  
GLOSSARY  
CONTROLLER  
DIGITALMAGNETICRECORDING  
See magnetic recording.  
A miniature CPU dedicated to controlling a peripheral device, such  
as a disk drive, tape drive, video display terminal, or printer. The  
controller executes commands from the central processing unit and  
reissues commands to the peripheral device.  
DIRECTACCESS  
Access directly to memory location. (See random access).  
CORRECTABLEERROR  
DIRECTMEMORYACCESS  
An error that can be overcome by the use of Error Detection and  
Correction.  
A mean of data transfer between the device and host memory  
without processor intervention.  
CYLINDER  
DIRECTORY  
On several disk surfaces sharing a common rotational axis, the  
aggregate of tracks at a given radial position. A set of disk tracks  
that are simultaneously under the set of read/write heads. This  
three-dimensional storage volume can be accessed after a single  
seek.  
A listing of files maintained by the disk operation system (DOS) or a  
data base management system to enable a user to quickly access  
data files.  
DISK  
A flat, circular piece of metal (usually aluminum) or plastic (usually  
mylar) with a magnetic coating upon which information can be  
recorded. (See, for example, floppy disk or Winchester disk)  
CYLINDERZERO  
The outermost cylinder in a drive that can be used for data storage.  
DISKDRIVEORDISKMEMORYDEVICE  
D
The total electromechanical storage device containing disks and  
read/write heads, head positioning mechanism, drive motor, and  
electronics.  
DATA  
An ordered collection of information. In a specific case, it is the  
information processed by a computer.  
DISKPACK  
A number of metal disks packaged in a canister for removal from the  
disk drive (predecessor of Winchester technology).  
DATASEPARATOR  
An electronic circuit which decodes playback data and produces  
separate clock and data bits. Sometimes incorrectly used to denote  
data synchronizer.  
DISKOPERATINGSYSTEM(DOS)  
The master computer system program that schedules tasks,  
allocates the computer system resources, controls accesses to  
mass storage devices, manages files, and so forth. Typical disk  
operating systems include CP/M, MS-DOS, and UNIX.  
DATASYNCHRONIZER  
An electronic circuit producing a clock signal that is synchronous  
with the incoming data stream. This clock signal is then used to  
decode the recording code being used into user data.  
DISKSTORAGE  
Auxiliary memory system containing disk drives.  
DATATRANSFERRATE  
DISKTRANSFERRATE  
In a disk or tape drive, the rate at which data is transferred to or  
from the storage media. It is usually given in thousands of bits per  
second (Kbit/second) or millions of bits per second (Mbit/second).  
The rate that digital data is transferred from one point to another.  
Expressed in either bits/second or bytes/second.  
DOUBLEFREQUENCYENCODING  
DEDICATEDLANDINGZONE  
Another name for FM encoding. This is because all possible data  
combinations will result in only two possible temporal displacements  
of adjacent data bits, specifically “1F” and 2F.”  
A designated radial zone on the disk where contact starting and  
stopping occur by design.  
DEDICATEDSERVO  
A servo scheme in which a prerecorded pattern on an otherwise  
unused disk surface provides position information to the servo  
circuitry by means of a head reading that surface.  
E
EARLYWINDOW  
DEFECT  
A data window that has been intentionally shifted in time in an early  
direction.  
A magnetic imperfection in a recording surface.  
DEFECTMANAGEMENT  
EMBEDDEDSERVO  
A general methodology of avoiding data errors on a recording  
surface by avoiding the use of known bad areas of media. Usually  
defective sectors or tracks are retired and data are written in  
alternate locations. Several algorithms are possible such as “sector  
slipping,” or “spare sector per track.”  
A servo technique used for track following. Position information is  
prerecorded between data areas in a track so that a data head, and  
proper additional circuitry, can determine the data head location  
with respect to the center position of the track (or cylinder) in  
question.  
DEFECTMAP  
ERASE  
A list of defects that fall within a pass/fail criteria of a user. This list  
is usually used by an operating system or a disk drive controller for  
defect management.  
A process by which a signal recorded on a medium is removed and  
the medium made ready for rerecording.  
ERRORCORRECTIONCODE(ECC)  
DEFECTSKIPPING  
A mathematical algorithm that can detect and correct errors in a  
data field. This is accomplished with the aid of Check Bits added to  
the raw data.  
A defect management scheme for avoiding surface defects. It has  
data written before and after the defect, instead of using alternate  
tracks or sectors to avoid use of the defective area.  
ERRORFREE  
DENSITY  
A recording surface that has no defects.  
Generally, recording density. See areal, bit, and storage density.  
ERRORRATE  
DCERASE  
The number of errors (type must be specified) that occur in a  
specified number of bits read.  
The method of erasing a track using a DC write/erase current  
through either a Read/Write or Erase head.  
ERRORRECOVERYPROCEDURE  
DIGITAL  
The process that occurs in response to a data error. In a drive  
without ECC, this would include re-calibration and re-seeking to the  
specified track and rereading the specified data.  
Any system that processes digital binary signals (having only values  
of a 1 or 0; usually in bits and bytes) rather than analog signals  
(signals that can have many values)  
GL – 2  
GLOSSARY  
EXTRAPULSE  
HEADDISKASSEMBLY(HDA)  
Term used in surface certification. It is when a flux field  
discontinuity remains after the recording surface is erased, thereby  
producing an electrical output of a read head passing over the area  
with the discontinuity. An extra pulse occurs when the electrical  
output is larger than a specified threshold.  
The mechanical portion of a rigid, fixed disk drive. It usually includes  
disks, heads, spindle motor, and actuator.  
HEADLOADINGZONE  
The non-data area on the disk set aside for the controlled takeoff  
and landing of the Winchester heads when the drive is turned on  
and off. Dedicated annulus on each disk surface in which heads are  
loaded, unloaded, or flying height is established. Head-disk contact  
may occur in some instances; no data is recorded in this area.  
F
FEEDBACK  
HEADPOSITIONER  
In a closed-loop system, the output signal (from the servo head) is  
used to modify the input signal (to the positioner).  
Also known as actuator, a mechanism that moves the arms that carry  
read/write heads to the cylinder being accessed.  
FETCH  
A read operation and its related data transfer operations.  
I
FILE ALLOCATION TABLE (FAT)  
Allocates space on the disk for files, one cluster at a time; locks out  
unusable clusters; identifies unused (free) area; and lists a file’s  
location. With two FAT’s present, the second copy ensures  
consistency and protects against loss of data if one of the sectors  
on the first FAT is damaged.  
INDEX  
Similar to a directory, but used to establish a physical to logical  
cross reference. Used to update the physical disk address (tracks  
and sectors) of files and to expedite accesses.  
INSIDEDIAMETER  
FLUXCHANGESPERINCH  
The smallest radial position used for the recording and playback of  
flux reversals on a magnetic disk surface.  
Synonymous with frpi (flux reversals per inch). Only in MFM recording  
does 1 fci equal 1 bpi (bit per inch). In run-length-limited encoding  
schemes, generally 1 fci equals 1.5 bpi.  
INITIALIZATION  
Applying input patterns or instructions to a device so that all  
operational parameters are at a known value.  
FORMAT  
In a disk drive, the arrangement of data on a storage media. A  
standard 5.25-inch disk format consists of 17, 26, or 36 sectors per  
track, and 512 bytes of data per sector, plus identification, error  
correction, and other bytes necessary for accessing and  
synchronizing data.  
INPUT  
Data entering the computer to be processed; also user commands.  
INPUT/OUTPUT(I/O)  
The process of entering data into or removing data from a computer  
system or a peripheral device.  
FORMATTEDCAPACITY  
The actual capacity available to store data in a mass storage  
device. The formatted capacity is the gross capacity, less the  
capacity taken up by the overhead data used in formatting the  
sectors.  
INTELLIGENTPERIPHERAL  
A peripheral device that contains a processor or microprocessor to  
enable it to interpret and execute commands.  
FREQUENCYMODULATION  
INTERFACE  
A recording code. A flux reversal at the beginning of a cell time  
represents clock bit; a “1” bit is a flux reversal at the center of the  
cell time, and a “0” bit is an absence of a flux reversal.  
The data transmitters, data receivers, logic, and wiring that link one  
piece of computer equipment to another, such as a disk drive to a  
controller or a controller to a system bus.  
FREQUENCYRESPONSE  
INTERFACESTANDARD  
A measure of how effectively a circuit or device transmits the  
different frequencies applied to it. In disk and tape drives this refers  
to the read/write channel. In disk drives, it can also refer to the  
dynamic mechanical characteristics of a positioning system.  
The interface specifications agreed to by various manufacturers to  
promote industry-wide interchangeability of products such as a disk  
drive. Interface standards generally reduce product costs, allows  
buyers to purchase from more than one source, and allow faster  
market acceptance of new products.  
G
INTERLEAVE  
An ordering of physical sectors to be skipped between logical  
sectors on your hard disk.  
GIGABYTE(GB)  
One billion bytes (one thousand megabytes) or 109 .  
I/OPROCESSOR  
Intelligent processor or controller that handles the input/output  
operations of a computer.  
H
INTERRUPT  
HARDERROR  
A signal, usually from a subsystem to a central processing unit, to  
signify that an operation has been completed or cannot be  
completed.  
An error that is not able to be overcome by repeated readings and  
repositioning means.  
HARDSECTORED  
A technique where a digital signal indicates the beginning of a  
sector on a track. This is contrasted to soft sectoring, where the  
controller determines the beginning of a sector by the reading of  
format information from the disk.  
J
JUMPER  
A small piece of plastic that slides over pairs of pins that protrude  
from the circuit board on the hard drive to make an electrical  
connection and activate a specific option.  
HEAD  
The electromagnetic device that write (records), reads (plays back),  
and erases data on a magnetic media. It contains a read core(s)  
and/or a write core(s) and/or erase core(s) which is/are used to  
produce or receive magnetic flux. Sometimes the term is all inclusive  
to mean the carriage assembly which includes the slider and flexure.  
K
KILOBYTE(KB)  
HEADCRASH  
A unit of measure of approximately 1,000 bytes. (However, because  
computer memory is partitioned into sizes that are a power of two, a  
kilobyte is really 1,024 bytes.)  
The inadvertent touching of a disk by a head flying over the disk  
(may destroy a portion of the media and/or the head).  
GL – 3  
GLOSSARY  
MODIFIEDMODIFIEDFREQUENCYMODULATION(MMFM)  
A recording code similar to MFM that has a longer run length limited  
distance.  
L
LANDINGZONEORLZONE  
MODULATION  
The cylinder number to where ParkHeads move the read/write heads.  
1. Readback voltage fluctuation usually related to the rotational  
period of a disk. 2. A recording code, such as FM, MFM, or RLL, to  
translate between flux reversals and bits or bytes.  
LATEBIT  
A bit that is in the late half of the data window.  
LATEWINDOW  
N
A data window that has been shifted in a late direction to facilitate  
data recovery.  
NON-RETURNTOZERO  
A form of data encoding that is not self-clocking, in other words, it  
needs to be provided with an external bit cell clock signal. Generally  
used in higher-performance disk drives.  
LATENCY  
A delay encountered in a computer when waiting for a specific  
response. In a disk drive there is both seek latency and rotational  
latency. The time required for the addressed sector to arrive under  
the head after the head is positioned over the correct track. It is a  
result of the disk’s rotational speed and must be considered in  
determining the disk drive’s total access time.  
O
OFF-LINE  
LOGIC  
processing or peripheral operations performed while disconnected  
from the system CPU via the system bus.  
Electronic circuitry that switches on and off (“1” and “0”) to perform  
functions.  
ON-LINE  
LOGICALADDRESS  
processing or peripheral operations performed while disconnected  
from the system CPU via the system bus.  
A storage location address that may not relate directly to a physical  
location. Usually used to request information from a controller,  
which performs a logical to physical address conversion, and in turn,  
retrieves the data from a physical location in the mass storage  
peripheral.  
OPENLOOPSERVO  
A head positioning system that does not use positional information  
to verify and correct the radial location of the head relative to the  
track. This is usually achieved by use of a stepper motor which has  
predetermined stopping point that corresponds to track locations.  
LOGICALBLOCKADDRESSING  
Defines the addressing of the device by the linear mapping of  
sectors.  
OPERATINGSYSTEM  
A software program that organizes the actions of the parts of the  
computer and its peripheral devices. (See disk operating system.)  
LOGICALSECTOR  
The lowest unit of space that DOS can access through a device  
driver; one or more physical sectors.  
OUTSIDEDIAMETER  
The largest radius recording track on a disk.  
LOWFREQUENCY  
The lowest recording frequency used in a particular magnetic  
recording device. With FM or MFM channel codes, this frequency is  
also called “IF.”  
OVERWRITE  
A test that measures the residual 1F recorded frequency on a track  
after being overwritten by a 2F signal. Variations of the test exist.  
M
P
MAINMEMORY  
PARALLELISM  
Random-access memory (RAM) used by the central processing unit  
(CPU) for storing program instructions and data currently being  
processed by those instructions. (See also random access memory.)  
1. The condition of two planes or lines being parallel. Important in  
disk drives because a lack of it in mechanical assemblies can result  
in positioning inaccuracy. More precisely: planes-coplanar; lines-  
colinear. 2. Is the local variation in disk thickness measured  
independently of thickness itself. 3. The ability of a multiprocessor  
computer to allocate more than one processor (CPU) to a computing  
problem, where each CPU works on a separate problem or separate  
segment of that problem. Also referred to as parallel processing.  
MASSSTORAGE  
Auxiliary memory used in conjunctions with main memory; generally  
having a large, on-line storage capacity.  
MEGABYTE(MB)  
A unit of measure approximately one million bytes (actually 1,048,576  
bytes) or 106 .  
PARITY  
A simple method of data error detections that always makes numbers  
either odd or even, using an extra bit in which the total number of  
binary 1s (or 0s) in a byte is always odd or always even; thus, in an  
odd parity scheme, every byte has eight bits of data and one parity  
bit. If using odd parity and the number of 1 bits comprising the byte  
of data is not odd, the ninth or parity bit is set to 1 to create the odd  
parity. In this way, a byte of data can be checked for accurate  
transmission by simply counting the bits for an odd parity indication.  
If the count is ever even, an error is indicated.  
MEMORY  
Any device or storage system capable of storing and retrieving  
information. (See also storage definitions.)  
MICROCOMPUTER  
A computer whose central processing unit is a microprocessor. It is  
usually, but not necessarily, desktop size.  
MICROPROCESSOR  
PARTITION  
A central processing unit (CPU) manufactured as a chip or a small  
number of chips.  
A logical section of a disk drive, each of which becomes a logical  
device with a drive letter.  
MISSINGPULSE  
PEAKSHIFT  
A term used in surface certification. It is when a prerecorded signal  
is reduced in amplitude by a certain specified percentage.  
The shifting in time of the zero-slope portion of a readback voltage  
from the values contained in the write current waveform. Sometimes  
incorrectly used to describe bit jitter.  
MODIFIEDFREQUENCYMODULATION(MFM)  
A method of encoding digital data signals for recording on magnetic  
media. Also called “three frequency recording.” Recording code  
that only uses synchronizing clock pulse if data bits are not present.  
Doubles the lineal bit density without increasing the lineal flux  
reversal density, compared to Frequency Modulation.  
PERIPHERALEQUIPMENT  
Auxiliary memory, displays, printers, and other equipment usually  
attached to a computer system’s CPU by controllers and cables.  
(They are often packaged together in a desktop computer.)  
PHASELOCKEDLOOP(PLL)  
A circuit whose output locks onto and tracks the frequency of an  
input signal. Sometimes incorrectly called a data separator.  
GL – 4  
GLOSSARY  
PHASEMARGIN  
Measure in degrees of the amount of difference between  
excursions from the window center where flux reversals can occur  
and the edge of the data window. Similar to window margin.  
S
SECTOR  
A logical segment of information on a particular track. The smallest  
addressable unit of storage on a disk. Tracks are made of sectors.  
PHYSICALSECTOR  
The smallest grouping of data on the hard disk; always 512 bytes.  
SECTORPULSESIGNAL  
PIO  
A digital signal pulse present in hard sectored drives which  
indicates the beginning of a sector. Embedded servo pattern or  
other prerecorded information may be present on the disk when  
sector is active.  
Programmable Input Output. A means of accessing device registers.  
Also describes one form of data transfers. PIO data transfers are  
performed by the host processor using PIO register accesses to the  
data register.  
SEEK  
A random access operation by the disk drive. The act of moving a set  
of read/write heads so that one of them is over the desired cylinder.  
The actuator or positioner moves the heads to the cylinder  
containing the desired track and sector.  
PLATEDTHINFILMMEDIA  
Magnetic disk memory media having its surface plated with a thin  
coating of a metallic alloy instead of being coated with oxide.  
PROCESSING  
SEEKCOMPLETESIGNAL  
The process of the computer handling, manipulating and modifying  
data such as arithmetic calculation, file lookup and updating, and  
word pressing.  
A digital signal level which indicates that the positioner is not  
moving and is located over a cylinder or offset position.  
SEEK TIME  
PULSECROWDING  
The amount of time between when a step pulse or seek command is  
issued until the head settles onto the desired cylinder. Sometimes is  
measured without settling times.  
Modification of playback amplitude due to super-positioning of  
adjacent flux reversal fields being sensed by the read/write gap.  
PULSE DETECT  
SEQUENTIALACCESS  
A digital pulse train in which each leading edge or each edge  
corresponds to a magnetic transition read from the disk. If transition  
qualification circuitry exists in the drive, this signal is the output of  
same. Also known as transition detect.  
The writing or reading of data in a sequential order such as reading  
data blocks stored one after the other on magnetic tape. This is  
contrasted to random access of information.  
SERVOBURST  
A momentary servo pattern used in embedded servo control systems  
usually positioned between sectors or at the end of a track.  
R
RANDOMACCESSMEMORY(RAM)  
SERVOCONTROL  
Memory designed so that any storage location can be accessed  
randomly, directly and individually. This is contrasted to sequential  
access devices such as tape drives.  
A technique by which the speed or position of a moving device is  
forced into conformity with a desired or standard speed or position.  
SERVOHEAD  
READ  
A magnetic head designed specifically for accurately reading servo  
data.  
To access a storage location and obtain previously recorded data.  
To sense the presence of flux reversals on magnetic media. Usually  
implemented such that a dynamic flux amplitude will cause a  
proportional electrical output from the transducer.  
SERVOPATTERN  
A readback signal that indicates the position of a head relative to a  
track.  
READGATESIGNAL  
A digital input signal which causes the drive circuitry to recover  
data.  
SERVOSURFACE  
A recording surface in a multi-surface disk drive that only contains  
control information which provides timing, head position, and track-  
following information for the data surfaces.  
READONLYMEMORY(ROM)  
A form of memory which cannot be changed in formal operational  
modes. Many different types are available. RAM is used for  
permanent information storage. Computer control programs are  
often stored in ROM applications.  
SERVOSYSTEM  
An automatic system for maintaining the read/write head on track;  
can be either “open loop,” “quasi-closed loop,” or “closed loop.”  
READ/WRITEHEAD  
SERVOTRACK  
The recording element which writes data to the magnetic media and  
reads recorded data from the media.  
A track on a servo surface. The prerecorded reference track on the  
dedicated servo surface of a disk drive. All data track positions are  
compared to their corresponding servo track to determine “off  
track”/”on track” position.  
RE-CALIBRATE  
The action of moving the head of a disk drive to cylinder zero.  
SETTLINGTIME  
RECOVERABLEERROR  
The time it takes a head to stop vibrating, within specified limits,  
after it reaches the desired cylinder.  
A read error, transient or otherwise, falling within the capability of  
an ECC mechanism to correct, or able to overcome by rereading the  
data in question.  
SILICON  
Semiconductor material generally used to manufacture  
microprocessors and other integrated circuit chips.  
ROTATIONALLATENCY  
The amount of delay in obtaining information from a disk drive  
attributable to the rotation of the disk.  
SMALLCOMPUTERSYSTEMINTERFACE(SCSI)  
An intelligent interface that incorporates controller functions  
directly into the drive.  
RUN-LENGTHLIMITED  
An encoding process that repositions data bits and limits the length  
of zero bits in order to compress information being stored on disks.  
S.M.A.R.T. CAPABILITY  
Self-Monitoring Analysis and Reporting Technology. Prediction of  
device degradation and/or faults.  
RUN-LENGTHLIMITEDENCODING  
A recording code. Sometimes meant to denote “2.7 RLL” which can  
signify 1.5 times the bits as MFM, given the same number of flux  
reversals in a given lineal distance.  
GL – 5  
GLOSSARY  
SOFTERROR  
UN-CORRECTABLEERROR  
A data error which can be overcome by rereading the data or  
repositioning the head.  
An error that is not able to be overcome with Error Detection and  
Correction.  
SOFTSECTORED  
UNFORMATTEDCAPACITY  
A technique where the controller determines the beginning of a  
sector by the reading of format information from the disk. This is  
contrasted to hard sectoring where a digital signal indicates the  
beginning of a sector on a track.  
Storage capacity of disk drive prior to formatting; also called the  
gross capacity. (See format.) The raw capacity of a drive not taking  
into account the capacity loss due to storage of the format control  
information on the disk surfaces.  
SOFTWARE  
UNRECOVERABLEERROR  
Applications programs, operating systems, and other programs (as  
opposed to hardware).  
A read error falling outside the capability of an ECC mechanism to  
correct, or not able to be overcome by rereading the data in  
question, with or without repositioning the head.  
SPINDLE  
The rotating hub structure to which the disks are attached.  
V
SPINDLEMOTOR  
The motor that rotates the spindle and therefore the disks.  
VOICECOILMOTOR  
A positioning motor that uses the same principle as a voice coil in a  
loudspeaker. The motor has no detent positions. The mechanical  
motion output of it can be either rotary or linear.  
SPUTTEREDMEDIA  
Magnetic disk or tape that has the magnetic layer deposited by  
sputtering means.  
STEPPERMOTOR  
W
A motor that has known detent positions where the rotor will stop  
with the proper control in some cases. The digitally controlled motor  
moves the head positioner from track to track in small, step-like  
motions.  
WHITNEYHEAD  
A successor to the original Winchester read/write head design. The  
primary change was to make the flexure smaller and more rigid. First  
used in IBM 3370/3380.  
STORAGECAPACITY  
The amount of data that can be stored in a memory location, usually  
specified in kilobytes for main memory and floppy drives and  
megabytes for mass storage devices.  
WHITNEYTECHNOLOGY  
A method of constructing a read/write head in a rigid disk drive  
using a Whitney head. In all other details it is the same as  
Winchester technology.  
STORAGE DENSITY  
Usually refers to recording density (BPI, TPI, or a combination of the  
two.)  
WINCHESTERHEAD  
The read/write head used in Winchester technology, non-removable  
media disk drives. May be either a monolithic or composite type. It is  
aerodynamically designed to fly within microinches of the disk  
surface.  
STORAGELOCATION  
A memory location, identified by an address where information may  
be read or written.  
STROBEOFFSETSIGNAL  
WINCHESTERTECHNOLOGY  
A group of digital input signal levels which cause the read PLL and/  
or data decoder to shift the decoding windows by fractional  
amounts. Often early/late are modified when two signals are used.  
A method of constructing a rigid disk drive using concepts  
introduced in the IBM model 3340 disk drive. The primary changes  
from prior technology was to lower the mass of the slider, use of a  
monolithic slider, radically changing the design of the flexure and  
having the slider come to rest on a lubricated disk surface when disk  
rotation ceases. In addition to the above, a totally sealed chamber  
containing the read/write heads and disks was used to protect  
against contamination.  
T
THIN-FILMHEAD  
A magnetic transducer manufactured by deposition of magnetic and  
electrical materials on a base material contrasted with prior art  
mechanical methods. Read/write heads whose read/write element is  
deposited using integrated circuit techniques rather than being  
manually wound.  
WINDOWMARGIN  
The amount of tolerance a read/write system has for transition jitter  
at a specified error rate level.  
WORD  
A number of bits, typically a multiple of eight, processed in parallel  
(in a single operation). Standard word lengths are 8, 16, 32 and 64  
bits (1, 2, 4, or 8 bytes).  
THIN-FILMMEDIA  
See plated thin film media.  
TRACK  
WRITE  
One surface of a cylinder. A path which contains reproducible  
information left on a magnetic medium by recording means  
energized from a single channel.  
The recording of flux reversals on a magnetic media.  
WRITEPRE-COMPENSATION  
The intentional time shifting of write data to offset the effects of bit  
shift in magnetic recording.  
TRACK-FOLLOWINGSERVO  
A closed-loop positioner control system that continuously corrects  
the position of the disk drive’s heads by utilizing a reference track  
and a feedback loop in the head positioning system. (See also  
closed loop.)  
WRITEGATESIGNAL  
A digital input signal level which causes the drive circuitry to record  
(write) data.  
TRACKSPERINCH(TPI)  
A measurement of radial density. Tracks per inch of disk radius.  
TRACKPOSITIONING  
The method, both mechanical and electrical, used to position the  
heads over the correct cylinder in a disk drive system.  
U
GL – 6  

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