Abstract: A mode reset method for a magnetic recording/reproducing apparatus whereby a deck is preferably reset to a predetermined mode of operation when power is applied. The method includes an initializing step and a mode reset step. Preferably, the initializing step includes substeps for driving a plunger, rotating a capstan motor to connect a transmission gear to a loading system when the power is applied, and then retracting the plunger. The mode reset step includes substeps for resetting the deck to a stop mode when the deck is in the stop mode, when the deck is between the stop mode and a playback mode, or when the deck is between the stop mode and an unloading stop mode at the time power is applied. Alternatively, the mode reset step resets the deck to the unloading stop mode, when the deck is stopped between the unloading stop mode and eject mode.

Abstract: A method for writing and reading for a floppy disc drive using a read/write head having a high density read/write gap and a low density read/write gap and a memory buffer. The method includes reading requested data and data ahead of the requested data from the disc and then storing the read data ahead of the requested data in a look-ahead memory buffer. Data stored in the look-ahead memory buffer is then read, instead of from the disc, when the next requested data is the same as the data stored in the memory buffer. There is no movement of the disc until reading of the data stored in the memory buffer is completed or until other data is requested that is needed directly from the disc. The above method reduces power consumption and provided an improved higher rate of read/write operation for a floppy disc drive that is particularly useful in a portable computer.