Basic Principles of Operation

￿￿￿￿￿$WHHGTThe￿%QPVTQNNGTBuffer Controller supports a 1.75 MB buffer. The 16-bit width implementation provides a 60 MB/s maximum buffer bandwidth. This increased bandwidth allows the µProcessor to have direct access to the buffer, eliminating the need for a separate µProcessor RAM IC.

The Buffer Controller supports both drive and host address rollover and reloading, to allow for buffer segmentation. Drive and host addresses may be separately loaded for automated read/write functions.

The Buffer Controller operates under the direction of the µProcessor.

￿￿￿￿￿5GTXQThe￿2TQEGUUQTServo Processor in the Read Write Channel ASIC provides servo data recovery and burst demodulation to extract the actuator position information. This information is processed in the controller ASIC/microprocessor, and a control signal is output to the VCM in the Power ASIC. This controls the current in the actuator coil which controls the position of the actuator.

4GCFThe￿9TKVGRead/Write￿+PVGTHCEGinterface allows the integrated µprocessor, disk controller to communicate with the Read/Write chip.

#6#The￿+PVGTHCEGATA Interface￿%QPVTQNNGTController portion of the ASIC provides data handling, bus control, and transfer management services for the ATA interface. Configuration and control of the interface is accomplished by the µController across the MAD bus. Data

￿￿transfer operations are controlled by the Buffer Controller module.

/QVQTThe￿%QPVTQNNGTMotor Controller controls the spindle and voice coil motor (VCM) mechanism

￿￿￿on the drive.

4GCFThe￿9TKVGRead/Write￿#5+%ASIC integrates an Advanced Partial Response Maximum Likelihood (PRML) processor, a selectable code rate Encoder-Decoder (ENDEC), and a Servo Processor with data rates up to 270 MHz (259 Mb/s). Programming is done through a fast 40 MHz serial interface. The controller and data interface through an 8-bit wide data interface. The Read/Write ASIC is a low power 3.3 Volts, single supply, with selective power down capabilities.

The Read/Write ASIC comprises 12 main functional modules (described below):

Pre-Compensator

Variable Gain Amplifier (VGA)

Butterworth Filter

FIR Filter

Maxtor D540X-4K 20.4/40.0/60.0/80.0 GB AT

5-7

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Maxtor D540X-4K manual On the drive

D540X-4K specifications

The Maxtor D540X-4K is a notable hard disk drive that has made its mark in the world of computer storage solutions. Launched in the early 2000s, this drive was known for its high capacity and reliable performance, making it a popular choice among consumers and businesses alike.

One of the main features of the D540X-4K is its generous storage capacity. With a range of models available, users could select from configurations starting at 40GB to larger sizes, accommodating a wide variety of storage needs. This capacity was particularly advantageous during an era when digital media was rapidly expanding, allowing users to store everything from documents and photos to videos and applications without running out of space.

The D540X-4K utilizes an IDE (Integrated Drive Electronics) interface, also known as PATA (Parallel ATA), which ensures compatibility with a broad spectrum of computers. This interface was standard at the time, making the drive accessible to a wide user base. The drive also supports ATA-100, providing data transfer rates of up to 100 MB/s, which was impressive for its time.

In terms of performance, the drive operates at a speed of 5400 RPM, which, while not the fastest in comparison to modern solid-state drives, provided a suitable balance of speed and efficiency for the average user’s needs. This rotational speed ensured decent read and write times for everyday applications, making it a reliable option for personal computing.

Another characteristic of the D540X-4K is its advanced data protection features. The drive was equipped with Maxtor's unique Shock Protection Technology, which helps protect the drive’s internal components from damage due to shocks or drops. This feature contributed to increased reliability, especially for users in mobile or high-traffic environments.

The Maxtor D540X-4K also incorporates a Cache Buffer, which enhances performance by temporarily storing frequently accessed data. The cache sizes varied across models, with options of 2MB or more, aiding in quicker data retrieval and overall improved system responsiveness.

In summary, the Maxtor D540X-4K is a hard drive that stands out for its storage capacity, compatibility, and protective features. Even today, it serves as a reminder of the evolution of data storage technologies, as it laid the groundwork for the high-capacity drives we utilize in modern computing. Its legacy continues to influence new technologies while reflecting the needs of the early digital era.