Patent ID: 6111717
Filing Date: 2000-08-29
Classification: G11B

Abstract:
A programmable preamplifier unit for use in a rotating disk drive apparatus having a plurality of read/write transducers and a controller for furnishing control and data signals to the preamplifier unit and for receiving data signals therefrom, said preamplifier unit comprising:a write data input circuit for receiving data signals to be supplied to a transducer;a read data output circuit for manifesting data signals supplied to said preamplifier unit by a transducer;a transducer interface circuit for providing write data signals to a transducer and receiving read data signals from a transducer;a multiplexer comprising:a first multiplexer input connected to receive a first internal digital signal;a second multiplexer input connected to receive a second internal digital signal;a control input connected to receive a control signal for selecting between the first and second internal digital signals; anda multiplexer output for outputting the selected first or second internal digital signal;an output terminal connected to the multiplexer output; anda serial interface circuit for receiving serially presented control signals from the associated controller, including the control signal for selecting between the first and second internal digital signals.