Abstract: A data archive system and method are provided. A first version is a data archive connected to a high speed Ethernet link. The data archive includes a main central processing unit system coupled with both an Ethernet interface module and a communications switching circuit. A high speed communications bus communicatively couples the communications switching circuit with memory module managers. Each memory module manager includes a manager control module, a manager communications bus, and a plurality of paired memory module interfaces and solid state memory modules. The memory module interfaces are communicatively coupled with the manager communications bus and are each configured to enable (1.) communicative coupling of at least one solid state memory module, and (2.) hot swapping, coupling and decoupling of at least one solid state memory module.

Abstract: A solid state memory disk drive device and system are provided. A first preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises (1) at least one digital memory disk located within an enclosure, (2) a motor for rotating the disk(s) about an axis of motion substantially normal to the disk(s), (3) one or more data heads, (4) a signal pathway communicatively coupling the data heads(s) to an electronic device or an electronic system, (5) a means for an external electronic device or system to position the data head(s) relative to the digital memory disk(s) to read from or optionally write to a location of one or more disks, and (6) a control means for the external device or system to operate the present invention. The enclosure may optionally surround the disk(s) and hermetically seal the disk(s) within the enclosure.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for increasing the reliability of removable storage media by dynamically reducing particulate contaminants from magnetic disks. The apparatus and methods include using wipers which slidingly engage both sides of the magnetic disk as the disk rotates, in order to reduce particulates. In some embodiments, the wiper can be coupled to a swing-type actuator or to any resilient member which can be moved over the surface of the magnetic disk.

Abstract: A disc drive (420) includes a spindle motor (432) having a stator assembly (436) which is provided in a radial gap configuration. A removable cartridge (422) includes a rotor assembly (472) mounted on a bearing arrangement (468) which additionally mounts the disc (430) contained in the cartridge (422). When the cartridge (422) is placed in the drive (420), the rotor assembly (472) of the cartridge (422) comes into alignment with the stator assembly (436) of the drive (420) so that the spindle motor (432) can cause the disc (430) contained in the cartridge (422) to rotate at the proper speed.