Patent ID: 6742079
Filing Date: 2004-05-25
Classification: G06F

Abstract:
A method for managing data files and avoiding loss of data in a memory unit when operating power is interrupted or said memory unit is disconnected from a host while said host is writing data to said memory unit, comprising steps of:formatting said memory unit in one of (i) an MS DOS and (ii) an MS WINDOWS format having reserve sectors and operational sectors; organizing said reserve sectors into data sectors and associated control sectors; using a first AT attachment (ATA) write command for writing modified data from said host into a data sector of said reserve sectors; after writing said modified data into said data sector, using a second ATA write command for writing said modified data from said host into an intended one of said operational sectors; within said host, generating control data having information for a location of said intended operational sector and validity check data; before using said second ATA write command, using a third ATA write command for writing said control data into a one of said control sectors; after writing said modified data into said intended operational sector using an ATA erase command for erasing said control sector unless a warning alert is received after said first ATA write command; in the event that said warning alert is received, responding to said warning alert by using a second ATA read command for reading said control data in said control sector into said host; and when said validity check data indicates said control data is valid using a third ATA read command for reading said modified data in said data sector into said host and using a fourth ATA write command for writing said modified data from said host into said intended operational sector.