Dual Preamplifier Circuits for Lower-Cost Parallel Self-Servo Writing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing self-servo writing process in data storage devices, particularly for hard disk drives, is inefficient and costly due to the lack of onboard hardware efficiency in supporting parallel self-servo writing with multiple read/write heads, which is essential for two-dimensional magnetic recording.
Innovation Solution
A circuit configuration with dual preamplifier circuits and multiplexor circuits that enable parallel self-servo writing by simultaneously processing read signals from multiple heads, using flex circuits and actuator control to improve hardware efficiency and reduce production time and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If specialized control circuitry is added to support parallel self-servo writing, then productivity is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The existing preamplifier circuits and read channels are designed to handle both traditional sequential operations and parallel self-servo writing operations. The circuitry can be dynamically configured through mode selection signals to support multiple functions without requiring dedicated specialized hardware for parallel operations.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple preamplifier circuits that were previously used for different sequential operations are merged to simultaneously process signals from multiple read/write heads during parallel self-servo writing. The read channels are combined to handle multiple heads in parallel through intelligent signal routing and multiplexing.
2Productivity
If specialized control circuitry is added to support parallel self-servo writing, then productivity is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control circuitry is designed with multi-functionality to support both traditional sequential operations and parallel self-servo writing operations using the same hardware resources. This eliminates the need for additional specialized circuitry and reduces manufacturing costs while maintaining high productivity during parallel operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses its existing preamplifier and read channel infrastructure to support parallel self-servo writing without requiring external specialized equipment. The onboard hardware efficiently performs both sequential and parallel operations, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
3Device complexity
If traditional sequential self-servo writing is used, then device complexity is minimized, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The control circuitry is designed with dynamic reconfigurability, allowing it to switch between sequential operation mode (simpler control flow) and parallel operation mode (higher productivity). Mode selection signals dynamically configure the preamplifier circuits and read channels to optimize performance for the current operation type without increasing baseline device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Example storage preamplifier circuits, data storage devices, and methods for parallel self-servo write are described. The data storage device may include a pair of preamplifier circuits electrically connected to respective banks of read heads actuated over a storage media surfaces. In read/write operation, each preamplifier circuit may selectively and sequentially provide read signals from a selected head to a pair of read channel interfaces. In self-servo write operation, each preamplifier circuit may selectively and in parallel provide read signals from a selected head in their corresponding banks of read heads to the pair of read channel interfaces. For example, the pair of read channel interfaces for two-dimensional magnetic recording may receive read signals from one read sensor in a head in the first bank of heads and another read sensor for another head in the second bank of heads.