Patent ID: 6307705
Filing Date: 2001-10-23
Classification: G11B

Abstract:
Method for reducing track-switch latency between data transfer operations on a present track and a new track in a disk drive when said present track and said new track are operated on by a currently active head for said present track and a next selected head for a new track, said active and next heads being mounted on a single head arm actuator, said method comprising the steps of:determining time remaining for said active head to reach end of track at said present track;determining a leadoff interval necessary to complete a pre track-switch processing step and a head arm actuator energizing step;detecting when said leadoff interval is greater than said time remaining to said end of track;performing pre track-switch processing in response to said detecting step; andenergizing said head arm actuator in response to said detecting step to build energy in said head arm actuator during said leadoff interval whereby said currently active head completes data transfer at said present track prior to movement of said active head off said present track.