Abstract: Disk drive access times are reduced by including at least one cancellation impulse in a voice coil motor input signal to effectively cancel oscillations caused by natural resonances in an actuator assembly during a seek operation. Each cancellation impulse has an amplitude and application time that is tailored for optimal cancellation of oscillations. The amplitude and application time are calculated based upon known or estimated characteristics of the natural resonance within the actuator assembly.

Abstract: A genetic process is used to tune servo parameter values in a disk drive. An initial population of individuals is generated each including a value for each of a plurality of servo parameters. Fitness values are then calculated for each of the individuals in the initial population. Individuals from the initial population are then chosen for mating based on the calculated fitness values. The chosen individuals are manipulated using genetic operators to produce a new population of individuals. Fitness values are then calculated for the new population and the cycle is repeated. The process is continued until a predetermined criterion has been met. After the process has ended, an individual is chosen based on fitness values and the servo parameters of the disk drive are set accordingly.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for tuning parameter values in a recording channel of a data storage device. The parameter values are tuned using a genetic process based on the principles of simulated evolution. An initial population of individuals is generated wherein each individual includes a value for each of a plurality of channel parameters. Fitness values are then calculated for each of the individuals. Individuals are then chosen for mating from the initial population based on the calculated fitness values. The chosen individuals are manipulated using genetic operators to produce a new population of parameter strings. Fitness values are then calculated for the new population and the cycle is repeated. The process is continued until a desired fitness is achieved or a predetermined number of generations have been produced. After the process has ended, an individual is chosen based on fitness values and the channel parameters of the data storage system are set accordingly.