Sector Count Register, Sector Number Register

HOST SOFTWARE INTERFACE

Sector Count Register

Holds the number of sectors to be sent during a Read or Write command, and the number of sectors per track during a Format command. A value of zero in this register implies a transfer of 256 sectors. A multi- sector operation decrements the Sector Count register. If an error occurs during such an operation, this register contains the remaining number of sectors to be transferred.

Sector Number Register

Holds the starting sector number for any disk operation. The register is updated as each sector is processed in a multi-sector operation.

Cylinder Number Registers

Two 8-bit Cylinder Number registers (Low and High) specify the starting cylinder for disk operation.

Device/Head Register

Used to specify the drive and head number to be operated on during any disk operations. Within the context of a Set Parameters command, this register specifies the maximum number of heads on the drive. Bit definitions follow:

7	6	5	4	3	2	1	0

1	LBA	1	DRV	HS3	HS2	HS1	HS0

				Drive	Head	Head	Head
	Mode		Select	Select	Select	Select	Select

Select LBA Mode – Enabling this bit for commands not supported by LBA mode will abort the selected command. When set, the Task File register contents are defined as follows for the Read/Write and translate command:

CONTENTS	LBA BITS
Sector Number	0	- 7
Cylinder Low	8 - 15
Cylinder High	16	- 23
Drive/Head	24	- 27

Drive Select – Set to 0 to select the master drive; set to 1 to select the slave drive.

Head Select – Specifies the binary coded address of the head to be selected.

Status Register

Contains results of the last command executed, and the drive’s status. The other seven Task File registers may be read only when bit 7 (BUSY) of the Status register is low. Reading any of the Task File registers when BUSY is high returns the value of the Status register. Reading the Status register also clears any interrupt request to the host. Bit definitions follow:

7	6	5	4	3	2	1	0

BUSY	DRDY	DF	DSC	DRQ	0	0	ERR

Controller	Device	Device	Device Seek	Data			Error
Busy	Ready	Fault	Complete	Request

Controller Busy – Goes active when a command is written to the Command register, indicating controller task execution. After a command, this bit resets.

Device Ready – Indicates that the drive is ready for commands. If drive ready is not present, all commands abort. Device Fault – Indicates the drive’s detection of a write fault condition, causing all commands to abort.

Device Seek Complete – Signifies a seek completion, and that the drive is on track.

Data Request – Indicates that the drive’s sector buffer is ready for data transfer.

Error – The Error bit sets when the previous command has completed with a non-recoverable error.

6 – 2

82160D2, 84320D4, 2160, 83240D3, 86480D6 specifications

Maxtor, known for its innovative storage solutions, produced several pivotal hard drive models during the late 1990s and early 2000s, namely the Maxtor 88400D8, 86480D6, 83240D3, 2160, and 84320D4. Each of these drives showcased unique features and technologies that catered to various computing needs.

The Maxtor 88400D8 stood out with its impressive storage capacity of 8.4 GB, which was considerable at the time. It employed the IDE interface, ensuring broad compatibility with most personal computers. The drive utilized a 5400 RPM spindle speed, optimizing data transfer rates for everyday applications. With a 2 MB cache, it facilitated smoother data retrieval, making it a reliable choice for both home and office use. This model exemplified Maxtor's commitment to enhancing user experience through advanced technologies.

Another noteworthy model, the Maxtor 86480D6, offered an 8.6 GB storage capacity, predicated on similar design principles as the 88400D8. It also featured a 5400 RPM spindle speed and an IDE interface. Its greater data density further improved performance, reducing the time required for searching and accessing large volumes of information. The 86480D6 was particularly favored by users with intensive storage needs, such as graphic designers and multimedia creators.

The Maxtor 83240D3, with a storage capacity of 3.2 GB, catered to users seeking a balance between performance and size. This drive also operated at 5400 RPM and featured an IDE interface. Its compact size made it an attractive option for entry-level systems and budget-conscious consumers who needed dependable storage without excessive capacity.

The Maxtor 2160 and 84320D4 models further diversified the line with distinct features suitable for different user segments. The 2160 offered 2.1 GB of storage, appealing particularly to users of basic office applications. In contrast, the 84320D4 provided 4.3 GB of space, marking a mid-range option for users requiring additional capacity without leapfrogging into high-end solutions.

All these Maxtor models incorporated technologies enhancing reliability and performance, such as Advanced Format technology, which optimized data organization, ensuring efficient use of storage space. These drives also showcased an emphasis on low power consumption, which aligned with growing concerns over energy efficiency in computing.

In summary, the Maxtor 88400D8, 86480D6, 83240D3, 2160, and 84320D4 were crucial entries in the hard drive market, bringing forth features that addressed the diverse needs of users, from casual consumers to professionals demanding superior performance. Their legacy continues to influence hard drive design and performance standards in contemporary storage solutions.

Maxtor 88400D8, 86480D6 Sector Count Register, Sector Number Register, Cylinder Number Registers

Models: 82160D2 84320D4 2160 83240D3 86480D6 88400D8