INTERFACECOMMANDS

Set Multiple Mode

Enables the controller to perform Read and Write Multiple operations, and establishes the block count for these commands. Before issuing this command, the Sector Count register should be loaded with the number of sectors per block. The drives support block sizes of 2, 4, 8 and 16 sectors.

When this command is received, the controller sets BSY and examines the Sector Count register contents. If they contain a valid and supported block count value, that value is loaded for all subsequent Read and Write Multiple commands, and execution of those commands is enabled. An invalid and unsupported block count in the register results in an Aborted Command error and disallows Read Multiple and Write Multiple commands.

Write Commands

Write Sector(s)

Writes from 1 to 256 sectors, beginning at a sector specified in the Command Block. (A sector count of 0 requests 256 sectors.)

When the Command register is written, the drive sets the DRQ bit and waits for the host to fill the sector buffer with the data to be written. An interrupt is not generated to start the first buffer fill operation.

Once the buffer is full, the drive resets DRQ, sets BSY, and begins command execution. If the drive is not already on the desired track, an implied seek is performed.

The data loaded in the buffer is written to the data field of the sector, followed by the ECC bytes. Upon command completion, the Command Block registers contain the cylinder, head and sector number of the last sector written. The next time the buffer is ready to be filled during back-to-back Write Sector commands, DRQ is set and an interrupt is generated.

After the host fills the buffer, DRQ is reset and BSY is set. If an error occurs, Write Sector operations terminate at the sector containing the error.

The Command Block registers then contain the numbers of the cylinder, head and sector where the error occurred. The host may read the Command Block to determine the nature of that error, and on which sector it happened. A Write Long may be executed by setting the Long bit in the command code. The Write Long command writes the data and the ECC bytes directly from the sector buffer; the drive itself does not generate the ECC bytes. Restrict Write Long commands to PIO Mode 0.

Write Verify Sector(s)

Identical to the Write Sector(s) command, except that the requested sectors are verified immediately after being written. The verify operation reads (without transferring), and checks for data errors. Any errors encountered during this operation are reported.

Write Sector Buffer

Allows the host to overwrite the contents of the drive’s sector buffer with a selected data pattern. When this command is received, the drive:

1.Sets BSY,

2.Sets up the sector buffer for a write operation,

3.Sets DRQ,

4.Resets BSY and

5.Generates an interrupt.

The host may then write up to 256 words of data to the buffer. A disk write task begins to store the host data to disk. Host write commands continue to be accepted and data transferred to the buffer until either the write command stack is full or the data buffer is full. The drive may reorder write commands to optimize drive throughput.

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Maxtor 83240D3, 86480D6, 2160 Write Commands, Set Multiple Mode, Write Sectors, Write Verify Sectors, Write Sector Buffer
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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.
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