SECTION 6

HostSoftwareInterface

The host communicates with the drive through a set of controller registers accessed via the host’s I/O ports. These registers divide into two groups: the Task File, used for passing commands and command parameters and the Control/Diagnostic registers.

Task File Registers

The Task File consists of eight registers used to control fixed disk operations. The host accesses each register by the I/O port address shown in this Task File register map:

I/O POR T

R EAD

WR ITE

 

 

 

1F0h

Data Register

Data Register

1F1h

Error Register

F eatures Register

 

 

 

1F2h

Sector Count

Sector Count

1F3h

Sector Number

Sector Number

 

 

 

1F4h

C ylinder Low

C ylinder Low

 

 

 

1F5h

C ylinder High

C ylinder High

1F6h

Drive/Head (SD H)

Drive/Head (SD H)

 

 

 

1F7h

Status Register

C ommand Register

Data Register

Provides access to the drive’s sector buffer for read and write operations. With the exception of ECC byte transfers (which, during Read long and Write long commands, are 8 bits wide), data transfers through the Data register are all 16 bits wide.

Error Register

A read-only register containing specific information regarding the previous command. Data interpretation differs depending on whether the controller is in operational or diagnostic mode. A power up, reset, software reset, or receipt of a diagnostic command sets the controller into diagnostic mode. This mode invalidates contents of the Status register. The contents of the Error register reflect a completion code.

Issuing any command (apart from a Diagnostic command) places the controller into operational mode.

In operational mode, the Error register is valid only when the Error bit in the Status register is set. The bit definitions for operational mode follow:

7

6

5

4

3

2

1

0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0

EC C

0

ID NF

0

ABRT

TK0

AMNF

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interface

D ata

Not

ID

Not

Aborted

Track 0

Address

C RC

ECC Error

Us ed

Not Found

Us ed

Command

Error

Mark Not

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Found

Interface CRC – An interface CRC error occurred during an Ultra DMA transfer.

Data ECC Error – An non-correctable ECC error occurred during a Read Sector command.

Firmware Problem – Indicates a firmware problem was detected, (e.g., invalid interrupt, divide overflow). ID Not Found – Either a matching ID field not found, or a CRC error occurred.

Aborted Command – Invalid commands, write fault, no seek complete, or drive not ready. Track 0 Error – Track 0 was not found during execution of a Restore command.

Address Mark Not Found – The Address Mark could not be found after an ID match.

Features Register

Enables or disables features through the Set Features command.

6 – 1

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Image 36
Maxtor 98196H8, 96147H6 specifications HostSoftwareInterface, Task File Registers, Por T Ead Wr Ite

96147H6, 98196H8 specifications

The Maxtor 98196H8 and 96147H6 are notable hard drive models that were part of Maxtor's diverse range of storage solutions. Both models were designed to cater to various computing needs and display characteristics that made them reliable, high-performance options during their time in the market.

The Maxtor 98196H8 is a 19.1 GB hard drive that utilizes the IDE interface, which is known for its ease of use and compatibility with a broad range of motherboards. This model features a rotational speed of 5400 RPM, striking a balance between performance and power consumption. With a data transfer rate of up to 33 MB/s, the 98196H8 is capable of efficiently handling average workloads, making it suitable for everyday computing tasks such as word processing, web browsing, and media playback.

One standout characteristic of the 98196H8 is its shock protection technology, which enhances durability and reduces the risk of data loss from accidental drops. The drive uses fluid dynamic bearing (FDB) motors for quieter operation and increased reliability. Additionally, Maxtor's proprietary technology, including the SoftSonic feature, allows for reduced operational noise levels, making it an appealing choice for users who prioritize a quiet working environment.

On the other hand, the Maxtor 96147H6 boasts a slightly larger capacity of 14.7 GB and shares similar interface traits and rotational speed as the 98196H8. With a focus on providing reliable storage for desktop applications, this model leverages Maxtor's advanced data recovery solutions, which help ensure that users can restore lost data in the event of drive failures. Its high-capacity storage makes it well-suited for users dealing with larger files or needing additional space for various applications and media.

Both models are equipped with Maxtor's Error Recovery Control technology, which actively manages potential read/write errors, ensuring data integrity during storage and retrieval processes. This is especially beneficial for users handling critical information or relying on the storage for important projects.

In conclusion, the Maxtor 98196H8 and 96147H6 hard drives exemplified Maxtor's dedication to creating dependable storage solutions for consumers. With their variety of capacities, advanced technologies, and characteristics tailored to improve reliability and performance, they served many users well during their availability in the market.