ATA Device Control Field Intra-Command Notification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing Advanced Technology Attachment (ATA) protocols, such as PATA and SATA, do not allow hosts to communicate intra-command data to ATA devices while they are busy processing a current command, limiting the ability to send protective commands during events like free fall conditions without aborting the current operation.
Innovation Solution
Modifying the device control field to enable the transmission of intra-command data by configuring specific bits, allowing hosts to notify ATA devices of conditions and request actions without interrupting ongoing commands, and modifying the state transition diagrams to enable the receipt of such data during busy states.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the host transmits intra-command data to the ATA device while the device is busy processing a current command, then the host can communicate protective commands without aborting the current operation, but the existing ATA protocols do not allow this communication during busy states
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically modifies the state transition diagram of the ATA device to allow reception of Host-to-Device FIS during busy states. Specifically, the device is configured to exit idle state upon receiving a XRDY primitive even when busy, process the intra-command data, and then return to the busy state to complete the current command. This dynamic state modification enables communication flexibility while maintaining protocol reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of state transition behavior by modifying the device control field bits and state machine logic. When specific bits in the device control field are set, the device alters its state transition parameters to permit receiving and processing intra-command data during busy periods, thereby adapting the protocol behavior without breaking compliance.
2Reliability
If the host aborts the current command to communicate protective commands, then the protective commands can be executed, but the current data access command is interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The host transmits the protective command as intra-command data before the current command completes, using the modified device control field. The ATA device receives and processes this preliminary protective instruction during the busy state, preparing to execute it while the current command is still in progress. This preliminary action ensures protective measures are ready without interrupting the ongoing data transfer.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous operation by allowing the current data access command to proceed uninterrupted while simultaneously receiving and processing protective commands. The device maintains the continuity of the original useful action (data transfer) while incorporating the protective action, thereby preserving productivity while ensuring reliability.
3Ease of operation
If the device exits idle state to receive intra-command data, then communication is enabled during busy state, but additional state transitions are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the idle state and busy state more universal by enabling the device to handle both data reception and command processing within the same state framework. The modified state transition diagram allows the device to exit idle state for receiving intra-command data even during busy periods, creating a multi-functional state behavior that reduces the need for separate dedicated states for different communication scenarios.
Data Source
AI summary
An Advanced Technology Attachment (ATA) device is disclosed for communicating with a host. The ATA device receives a command from the host, and while the ATA device is busy processing the command, the ATA device receives intra-command data from the host in at least one bits 3, 4, 5, and 6 in a device control field. In one embodiment the ATA device is a parallel ATA device, and the device control field is part an ATA task file. In another embodiment, the ATA device is a serial ATA device, and the device control field is part of a host to device Frame Information Structure (FIS).