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

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Maxtor 92049U6, 91024U3 Sector Count Register, Sector Number Register, Cylinder Number Registers, Device/Head Register
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91024U3, 92049U6, 90683U2, 91707U5, 92732U8 specifications

The Maxtor series of hard drives, specifically the models 91366U4, 92732U8, 91707U5, 90683U2, and 92049U6, exemplify the evolution of storage technology during the late 1990s and early 2000s, pivotal in shaping contemporary data storage solutions. These hard drives are recognized for their reliability, performance, and impressive capacities for their time.

The Maxtor 91366U4 features a storage capacity of 13.6 GB, delivering a spindle speed of 5,400 RPM. Its UATA interface allows for a fast data transfer rate, which was notable in its category. The model incorporates Advanced Power Management, contributing to lower power consumption and reduced heat generation, making it an appealing choice for system builders looking to enhance system longevity.

Moving on to the Maxtor 92732U8, this model increased capacity to 27.3 GB, aligning with the growing demand for more storage from users and businesses alike. This drive maintained a 5,400 RPM spindle speed while improving the access times, which aided in speeding up file retrieval processes. Noteworthy is its Plug and Play capability, which simplified installation and compatibility across various systems.

The Maxtor 91707U5 brought forward advancements in data integrity with the inclusion of features such as error correction codes. With a storage size of 17.3 GB and similar operational speeds, this model catered to users seeking reliable data management. Its robust build aimed to protect against accidents and environmental factors, ensuring data was safe while providing consistent performance.

The Maxtor 90683U2, with its 68.3 GB capacity, is particularly recognized for its reliability in desktop applications. The drive integrates a combination of Unidirectional Technology, driving advancements in read/write capabilities, and extensive shock protection, making it an ideal candidate for users with intensive data processing requirements.

Lastly, the Maxtor 92049U6 is known for its balanced blend of performance and functionality. Holding a capacity of 49.1 GB and retaining the sophisticated features of its predecessors, this model enabled faster data access and storage capabilities that met the needs of both home and professional users.

Together, these Maxtor hard drives embody the technological strides in the evolution of data storage—offering capacities and performances that set a standard in the industry and laid the groundwork for future storage solutions. The combination of innovative technologies and practical features made these drives highly sought after during their respective periods, and their legacy continues to influence modern data storage products.
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