Mechanical factors are characterized by external forces, such as shock, while electrical factors influencing data reliability most often affect the internal workings of the disc drive. Seagate has addressed both mechanical and electrical factors equally, because data reliability is an issue requiring both internal and external solutions. The Mechanical Enhancements Operational shock has been an extremely challenging aspect of data reliability for disc drive manufacturers, who have little or no control over the physical environment. New ways to ruggedize disc drives against physical elements such as bumps, bounces, and drops are the source of continuous research and development. Just like car manufacturers who developed advanced suspension, air bags and anti-lock braking systems, disc drive manufacturers have achieved great success in lessening the dangers of impact.
Nonoperational shock is as threatening to data reliability as operational shock.
Mobile computers are most frequently subjected to nonoperational shock during transit, for example, banging around in luggage or sliding haphazardly around the seat of a car. This means increased data protection to the user, because certain drive components have been modified to withstand even greater force. The key to nonoperational enhancements, interestingly enough, is the reduction of movement in a mobile environment. Newly-revamped shock limitors in disc drive design helps restrict movement of the outer heads, minimizing media damage on the two outermost surfaces of the discs, should a nonoperational shock occur. In addition, Seagate has developed a strengthened base casting and more solidly-mounted spindle motor to lessen the chances of disc shift caused by impact.