Non-volatile write cache, in a disc drive, using an alternate power source
First Claim
1. In a disc drive having a data storage disc, an actuator for positioning a transducer over the data storage disc, a servo controller for positioning of the actuator for accessing data sectors in tracks on the data storage disc, an interface controller for communicating with a host computer, and a memory controller and buffer for caching incoming write commands, a method for maintaining the write commands cached in the memory buffer in the event of a power loss, comprising steps of:
- p1 (a) detecting a standard drive power loss;
(b) switching from standard drive power to an alternate drive power source;
(c) switching the memory controller into a low-power consumption mode; and
(d) refreshing the write commands in the buffer.
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Accused Products
Abstract
A non-volatile write cache using an alternate power source is implemented in a disc drive to maintain the integrity of cached write commands during a standard disc drive power loss, and to further recover and execute outstanding cached write commands when standard disc drive power is restored. The disc drive includes an internal or external alternate power source, control circuitry to switch between normal and low-power modes, memory control circuitry to, when in low-power mode, maintain the refresh of the cache, and firmware to recover and execute cached write commands once power is restored.
59 Citations
18 Claims
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1. In a disc drive having a data storage disc, an actuator for positioning a transducer over the data storage disc, a servo controller for positioning of the actuator for accessing data sectors in tracks on the data storage disc, an interface controller for communicating with a host computer, and a memory controller and buffer for caching incoming write commands, a method for maintaining the write commands cached in the memory buffer in the event of a power loss, comprising steps of:
- p1 (a) detecting a standard drive power loss;
(b) switching from standard drive power to an alternate drive power source;
(c) switching the memory controller into a low-power consumption mode; and
(d) refreshing the write commands in the buffer. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7)
- p1 (a) detecting a standard drive power loss;
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8. A disc drive having a data storage disc, an actuator for positioning a transducer over the data storage disc, a servo controller for positioning of the actuator for accessing data sectors in tracks on the data storage disc, an interface controller for communicating with a host computer, and a memory controller and buffer for caching incoming write commands, the disc drive comprising:
a non-volatile write cache using an alternate power source to maintain integrity of data stored in the buffer in the event of a standard drive power loss. - View Dependent Claims (9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18)
Specification