Maxtor 10K V manual 4Maxtor Atlas 10K

Glossary

F

FALSE – Refers to the logical-zero (or “negated”) state of a binary number. See also, signal negation.

FAST SCSI – The SCSI protocol that governs fast synchronous transfer. See also Synchronous Transfer.

FCI – Flux Changes per Inch. The number of magnetic field patterns that can be stored on a given area of disk surface, used as a measure of data density. (See also BPI.)

FIELD – A logically related group of one or more physically contiguous bits.

FILE SERVER – A computer that provides network stations with controlled access to shareable resources. The network operating system is loaded on the file server, and most shareable devices (disk subsystems, printers) are attached to it. The file server controls system security and monitors station-to-station communications. A dedicated file server can be used only as a file server while it is on the network. A non dedicated file server can be used simultaneously as a file server and a workstation.

FIRMWARE – Permanent instructions and data programmed directly into the circuitry of read-only memory for controlling the operation of the computer. Distinct from software, which can be altered by programmers.

FLUX DENSITY – The number of magnetic field patterns that can be stored in a given length of disk surface. The number is usually stated as flux changes per inch (FCI), with typical values in the thousands. (See also FCI.)

FLYING HEIGHT – The distance between the read/write head and the disk surface, made up of a cushion of air that keeps the two objects from touching. Smaller flying heights permit denser data storage but require more precise mechanical designs. Also known as fly height.

FORMAT – To write a magnetic track pattern onto a disk surface, specifying the locations of the tracks and sectors. This information must exist on a disk before it can store data.

FORMATTED CAPACITY – The amount of room left to store data on a disk after writing sector headers, boundary definitions, and timing information during a format operation. The size of a Maxtor drive is always expressed in formatted capacity, accurately reflecting the usable space required.

FORM FACTOR – The industry standard that defines the physical, external dimensions of a particular device. For example, most Maxtor hard disk drives use a 3 1/2-inch form factor.

FULL HEIGHT – Term used to describe a disk that occupies the vertical space (3.250 inches) of a full sized 5.25-inch drive. See also half height, low profile.

G

GIGABYTE (GB) –1 billion bytes. The total accessible capacity varies depending on the operating environment.

Glist – Abbreviation. When the drive encounters a defective sector during regular use, it adds the address of the sector to the Grown Defect List (Glist). See also Plist.

GUIDE RAILS – Plastic strips attached to the sides of a hard disk drive in an IBM PC/AT or compatible computer so that the drive easily slides into place.

H

HALF-HEIGHT – Standard drive size equivalent to half the vertical space of a 5 1/4- inch drive.

HARD DISK – A type of storage medium that retains data as magnetic patterns on a rigid disk, usually made of an iron oxide or alloy over a magnesium or aluminum platter. Because hard disks spin more rapidly than floppy disks, and the head flies closer to the disk, hard disks can transfer data faster and store more in the same volume.

HARD ERROR – A data error that persists when the disk is re-read, usually caused by defects in the physical surface.

G-4Maxtor Atlas 10K V