6.4 Read-ahead Cache

6.4 Read-ahead Cache

Read-ahead Cache is the function for automatically reading data blocks upon completion of the read command in order to read data from disk media and save data block on a data buffer.

If a subsequent command requests reading of the read-ahead data, data on the data buffer can be transferred without accessing the disk media. As the result, faster data access becomes possible for the host.

6.4.1 Data buffer structure

This device contains a data buffer. This buffer is divided into two areas: one area is used for MPU work, and the other is used as a read cache for another command. (See Figure 6.5)

Example of 8 MB buffer

8,192 KB (8,388,608 bytes)

For MPU work

For R/W command

 

 

Figure 6.5 Data buffer structure

The read-ahead operation is done by the following commands.

READ SECTOR (s) (EXT)

READ MULTIPLE (EXT)

READ DMA (EXT)

READ FP DMA QUEUED

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Fujitsu MHW2060BS, MHW2100BS, MHW2080BS, MHW2120BS, MHW2040BS Read-ahead Cache, Data buffer structure, Example of 8 MB buffer