Multiplexed Analog Bus for Storage Device Signal Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional communication schemes in data storage devices, such as hard disk drives, are inefficient due to the large number of dedicated signal lines required for transmitting data and control signals between the recording channel, preamplifier, and controller, which limits their effectiveness in terms of signal line utilization.
Innovation Solution
Implementing multiplexed communication on an analog bus between the recording channel and preamplifier, where a single analog line is used for both read and write data transmission by switching between read and write operations, and using a bidirectional serial data line with a clock signal for digital bus communication to reduce the number of signal lines needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dedicated signal lines are used for each data and control signal transmission, then communication reliability is improved, but the number of signal lines increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple dedicated signal lines into a single multiplexed analog bus. The read data circuitry and write data circuitry share the same analog signal line by switching between read and write modes, eliminating the need for separate dedicated lines for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The analog bus is designed to serve multiple functions: it can transmit read data from preamplifier to recording channel, write data from recording channel to preamplifier, and support bidirectional communication. This multi-functional design reduces the total number of signal lines required.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple dedicated control bus lines are used for digital control functions, then control precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple digital control functions onto a single bidirectional serial port. The serial port transmits both data and control signals by switching directions, eliminating the need for separate dedicated control lines for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system dynamically switches the direction of the serial port based on whether read or write operations are being performed. This dynamic switching allows a single line to serve multiple control functions that would otherwise require separate static lines.
Data Source
AI summary
A method is provided, for example, to implement multiplexed communication on an analog bus between a recording channel and a preamplifier in a storage device. A first input of read data circuitry within the recording channel is switchably connected to a first analog line of the analog bus to receive read data transmitted from the preamplifier to the recording channel over the first analog line during a read operation. In addition, a write data output of write data circuitry within the recording channel is switchably connected to the first analog line of the analog bus to transmit write data from the recording channel to the preamplifier over the first analog line during a write operation.