Abstract: Method and apparatus for predicting data storage device failures using adaptive failure prediction modeling. In some embodiments, monitored parameters are used to predict a potential imminent failure of a first data storage device using a first copy of a first failure prediction model (FPM). Data associated with the predicted potential imminent failure are transferred by the device across a computer network to a host device. The host device generates an updated, second FPM responsive to the transferred data as well as from data from at least a second data storage device transmitted across the computer network having a second copy of the first FPM. A first copy of the updated, second FPM is transferred, via the network, for use by the second data storage device.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for predicting data storage device failures using adaptive failure prediction modeling. In some embodiments, monitored parameters are used to predict a potential imminent failure of a first data storage device using a first copy of a first failure prediction model (FPM). Data associated with the predicted potential imminent failure are transferred by the device across a computer network to a host device. The host device generates an updated, second FPM responsive to the transferred data as well as from data from at least a second data storage device transmitted across the computer network having a second copy of the first FPM. A first copy of the updated, second FPM is transferred, via the network, for use by the second data storage device.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a disk drive is disclosed in which servo information is written in tracks on a disk surface, the track width performance of the associated read/write transducer is measured, the track width performance is analyzed and a data track pitch is established. Based on the data track pitch established, a track location formula for data tracks on the surface is defined. For a disk drive with a plurality of read/write transducer-media surface combinations, a track location formula for data tracks is established for each combination.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for off-track write error recovery. A storage medium is provided with at least first and second tracks, and a write protected status is assigned to the second track to inhibit subsequent writing of data thereto in relation to a position error detected during writing of data to the first track. Preferably, a third track is disposed between the first and second tracks. The position error is preferably characterized as a first position error, and a write fault condition is declared during the writing of data to the first track in relation to a second position error different from the first position error. Data write operations are preferably performed on additional tracks while the write protected status of the second track is maintained. In this way, dual-sided encroachment or other track squeezing effects are reduced.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a disk drive is disclosed in which servo information is written in tracks on a disk surface, the track width performance of the associated read/write transducer is measured, the track width performance is analyzed and a data track pitch is established. Based on the data track pitch established, a track location formula for data tracks on the surface is defined. For a disk drive with a plurality of read/write transducer-media surface combinations, a track location formula for data tracks is established for each combination.

Abstract: A preamplifier that includes an input configured to receive a preamplifier control signal and a fault detection circuit configured to monitor the preamplifier control signal received at the input is provided. The fault detection circuit is further configured to identify a fault condition triggered by an improper temperature control signal provided by the preamplifier.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a disk drive is disclosed in which servo information is written in tracks on a disk surface, the track width performance of the associated read/write transducer is measured, the track width performance is analyzed and a data track pitch is established. Based on the established track pitch, a track location formula for data tracks on the disk surface is defined. For a disk drive having a plurality of read/write transducers, a track location formula is established for each transducer. A method for measuring track width performance of a read/write head is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method for assembling and operating a fixed media hard disk drive using a disk or a stack of disks on which servo information is pre-written off the drive spindle. The disks are subsequently mounted on the drive spindle and a set of rotationally concentric “virtual tracks” for seeking and following in terms of said pre-written servo tracks are defined. The use of the concentric virtual tracks assures minimal actuator motion during drive operation and increases acceptable offtrack tolerances. The off-spindle, pre-writing of the servo information increases the efficiency of the assembly operation and reduces the clean room burden.

Abstract: A mass moves within a bore defined in a body. During normal operation the axis of the bore is approximately vertical, so that the mass rests at the bottom. A magnet is positioned adjacent the top of the bore and imparts an upwards force on the mass that is less than the downwards force on the mass upwards force on the mass that is less than the downwards force on the mass from gravity. A coil is positioned adjacent the bottom of the bore. When the body is dropped, or tilted beyond a critical angle from vertical, the force from the magnet causes the mass to move upwards in the bore. The upwards movement is sensed as a change in the coil's inductance.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method to reduce external signal interference with signals in a computer disk storage system including a disk drive. An electrically conductive housing is provided for the disk drive to enclose and support within the housing analog circuitry, a motor for rotating media for the storage of information, and circuitry for converting analog signals to digital signals. Circuitry and conductors which carry analog signals are enclosed within the electrically conductive housing and signal conversion circuitry is provided within the housing to convert analog signals into digital signals before transmission to the exterior of the housing.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a disk drive which includes a disk having first and second magnetic surfaces and first and second read/write transducers for writing information on and reading information from the magnetic surfaces. The method includes determining a track width performance characteristic to be measured for the read/write transducers, establishing ranges of values for the performance characteristic to define a plurality of performance groups. The performance characteristic is measured for a plurality of read/write transducers from which the first and second read/write transducers for the disk drive are to be selected and the read/write transducers are segregated into groups based on the performance characteristic value falling within the range of the group. The disk drive is assembled using read/write transducers from only one of the groups. The measurement of the performance characteristic is accomplished either electrically or optically.

Abstract: A method for operating a disk drive apparatus in the Idle Mode reduces power consumption while meeting non-operating shock and vibration specifications. This is achieved by operating the disk drive apparatus with the head in the loaded state with the disk rotating at a first rotational speed, unloading the head, and in Idle Mode, rotating the disk at a second rotational speed lower than the first rotational speed, with the electronics depowered.

Abstract: A magnetic recording system utilizing a plurality of surfaces on a magnetic recording disk with recording zone boundaries established on the respective surfaces of the disk based on performance characteristics of the read/write transducer associated with the surface. The performance of the read/write transducer from the aspects of the width of the track written by the transducers as well as the recording performance at the expected recording frequency, are both utilized in building disk drives. Since the zone boundaries are established uniquely for the performance of each transducer, rather than by defining the boundaries of all zones for all surface in advance based on assumed performance characteristics of the heads, the zone boundaries on one surface of the disk will not necessarily align with the zone boundaries on another surface of the disk. Similarly, when a plurality of disks are utilized, the zone boundaries will not necessarily be aligned.

Abstract: A magnetic recording system utilizing a plurality of surfaces on a magnetic recording disk with recording zone boundaries established on the respective surfaces of the disk based on performance characteristics of the read/write transducer associated with the surface. The performance of the read/write transducer from the aspects of the width of the track written by the transducers as well as the recording performance at the expected recording frequency, are both utilized in building disk drives. Since the zone boundaries are established uniquely for the performance of each transducer, rather than by defining the boundaries of all zones for all surfaces in advance based on assumed performance characteristics of the heads, the zone boundaries on one surface of the disk will not necessarily align with the zone boundaries on another surface of the disk. Similarly, when a plurality of disks are utilized, the zone boundaries will not necessarily be aligned.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a rigid disk drive including a rotary actuator having a lift tab extending asymmetrically from the end of the load beam which supports a slider with read/write element is disclosed. The free end of the lift tab cooperates with a cam surface on a cam assembly to provide dynamic loading and unloading of the slider while imparting a roll to the slider as it is loaded to and unloaded from the disk. In another embodiment, the lift tab extends from the end of the load beam along an axis generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the load beam, but the axis of the lift tab is offset from the longitudinal axis of the load beam. In a further embodiment, a disk drive including a rotary actuator having a load beam which includes a lift tab extending from the free end, with the lift tab cooperating with a cam assembly which is located adjacent to the edge of recording media, but not extending over a surface of the media is provided.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a rigid disk drive of the dynamic head loading type which includes a rotary actuator, and a load beam having a lift tab which cooperates with a cam surface of a cam assembly to load and unload a read/write recording element with respect to a surface of a disk. The method includes positioning the left tab so that it extends along an axis which is displaced with respect to a center line of the load beam. The method also includes providing the cam surface with a detent. The method of manufacturing further includes providing a portion of said lift tab with a cylindrical shape.

Abstract: In accordance with this invention, an air bearing slider has a mounting side which has a relieved portion formed by a stepped-contour or a tapered contour. The stepped-contour includes an adherent surface adjacent the rear face of the air bearing slider and a notch surface adjacent the front face of the air bearing slider. The notch surface is closer to the air bearing surface than the adherent surface. The tapered contour includes an adherent surface adjacent the rear face and a taper surface adjacent the front face such that the taper surface is at an angle to the adherent surface. The clearance provided by the relieved portion eliminates interference between the air bearing slider and the load beam surround portions which support the air bearing slider. Depth of the relieved portion of the air bearing slider can be altered easily during grinding for customized multiple drive designs without major retooling effort.

Abstract: A magnetic recording system utilizing a plurality of surfaces on a magnetic recording disk with recording zone boundaries established on the respective surfaces of the disk based on performance characteristics of the read/write transducer associated with the surface. The performance of the read/write transducer from the aspects of the width of the track written by the transducers as well as the recording performance at the expected recording frequency, are both utilized in building disk drives. Since the zone boundaries are established uniquely for the performance of each transducer, rather than by defining the boundaries of all zones for all surfaces in advance based on assumed performance characteristics of the heads, the zone boundaries on one surface of the disk will not necessarily align with the zone boundaries on another surface of the disk. Similarly, when a plurality of disks are utilized, the zone boundaries will not necessarily be aligned.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a rigid disk drive including a rotary actuator having a lift tab extending asymmetrically from the end of the load beam which supports a slider with read/write element is disclosed. The free end of the lift tab cooperates with a cam surface on a cam assembly to provide dynamic loading and unloading of the slider while imparting a roll to the slider as it is loaded to and unloaded from the disk. In another embodiment, the lift tab extends from the end of the load beam along an axis generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the load beam, but the axis of the lift tab is offset from the longitudinal axis of the load beam. In a further embodiment, a disk drive including a rotary actuator having a load beam which includes a lift tab extending from the free end, with the lift tab cooperating with a cam assembly which is located adjacent to the edge of recording media, but not extending over a surface of the media is provided.

Abstract: In accordance with this invention, an air bearing slider has a mounting side which has a relieved portion formed by a stepped-contour or a tapered contour. The stepped-contour includes an adherent surface adjacent the rear face of the air bearing slider and a notch surface adjacent the front face of the air bearing slider. The notch surface is closer to the air bearing surface than the adherent surface. The tapered contour includes an adherent surface adjacent the rear face and a taper surface adjacent the front face such that the taper surface is at an angle to the adherent surface. The clearance provided by the relieved portion eliminates interference between the air bearing slider and the load beam surround portions which support the air bearing slider. Depth of the relieved portion of the air bearing slider can be altered easily during grinding for customized multiple drive designs without major retooling effort.