Disk drive with selectable power source for heater in a slider
US7126777B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 30, 2004 |
| Grant date | Oct 24, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 31, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG11B5/607
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A disk drive with switchable power levels for the heaters in the sliders is disclosed. The invention includes a switch for the electrical circuit of each heater which selects between two or more voltages to apply to the power control element and the heater with at least a high and a low voltage option. The heater power control circuit dissipates a certain amount of heat as a part of the control process. By having a low voltage option the disk drive can save power and reduce the amount of heat dissipated by the heater control circuit when high power is not required. The programmable switch is controlled by the drive control system. The high power setting can be used during manufacturing testing or otherwise if higher heater power is needed. The low power setting is used for normal operation or to save power.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.