Electrical computers and digital processing systems: memory – Storage accessing and control – Specific memory composition
Reexamination Certificate
2001-01-16
2003-12-23
Kim, Hong (Department: 2186)
Electrical computers and digital processing systems: memory
Storage accessing and control
Specific memory composition
C713S330000, C713S320000, C713S310000, C713S002000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06668305
ABSTRACT:
COPYRIGHT NOTICE
Contained herein is material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction of the patent disclosure by any person as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent files or records, but otherwise reserves all rights to the copyright whatsoever.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to computer systems; more particularly, the present invention relates to powering hard disk drives.
BACKGROUND
A hard disk drive (HDD) is a permanent storage device within a computer system that is used for data and the programs used to create the data. A HDD typically includes individual platters covered on both sides with a magnetic material. An HDD operates by writing small magnetic charges onto the surface of the disk platter. The platters spin at thousands of Revolution per Minute (RPM). Generally, a HDD requires in excess of two amperes (2 A) at 12 Vdc (or a 24 W power input) during the time the disk platter goes from zero RPM to its maximum RPM. The time required for a HDD to reach its maximum speed may take up to three seconds.
Ordinarily, the power supply for the computer system can easily manage the power requirements for starting a single HDD. However, in system applications where multiple HDDs are used, the power supply is typically designed to accommodate the startup of all HDDs at once. For example in a system employing four HDDs, it is necessary for the system power supply to be capable of managing in excess of 96 W (e.g., 24 W×4) of power at 12 Vdc. A power supply that is capable of handling such high power requirements is not cost effective for installation within a computer system. Therefore, a method to reduce the power needed to startup HDDs in a computer system is desired.
SUMMARY
According to one embodiment, a method and apparatus is disclosed for powering up hard disk drives. According to one embodiment, the method includes staggering the startup of hard disk drives (HDDs) in a computer system including a plurality of HDDs.
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Blakely & Sokoloff, Taylor & Zafman
Kim Hong
Sun Microsystems Inc.
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