Patent ID: 8736996
Filing Date: 2014-05-27
Classification: G11B

Abstract:
1. A method for implementing channel signal processing assist with an embedded contact sensor (ECS) for hard disk drives comprising: providing a magnetic recording head including a write pole, a read sensor and a embedded contact sensor (ECS); said embedded contact sensor (ECS) of said magnetic recording head, applying said ECS signal to a signal multiplexer circuit in a preamplifier of the hard disk drive; said signal multiplexer circuit capturing an ECS signal during write and idle operation of a hard disk drive including a first multiplexer receiving said ECS signal applied by said magnetic recording head and a reference signal, said first multiplexer providing a modulated ECS signal responsive to a timer select signal; and a second multiplexer receiving said modulated ECS signal and a read signal, said second multiplexer applying said modulated ECS signal to said read channel responsive to an ECS select signal for monitoring changes in the ECS signal, and responsive to the monitored changes in the ECS signal, providing a clearance monitor function for insuring write integrity.