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6.3 Operation Check
C141-E252 73
6.3 Operation Check
6.3.1 Initial seek operation check
If an error is detected during initialization by the initial seek operation check routine at power-on, the
spindle motor of the HDD stops, and then the HDD becomes unusable.
For an explanation of the operation check before the initial seek, refer to the Section 5.4.
6.3.2 Operation test
While the host computer is processing data, the HDDs monitor HDD operation including data
processing, command processing, and seek operations. If the HDDs detect an error, the HDDs post
the error to the initiator. The initiator then posts the error to the user.
The user may detect an intermittent or nonfatal error such as abnormal noise, abnormal odor, or very
slow operation.
An error posted in an operation test must be investigated. The user can replace the HDD to see
whether the error was caused by the HDD.
Often, errors posted in an operation test may be caused by the host system. Possible causes include
insufficient power capacity, loose cable connection, insufficient timing or insufficient mechanical
play, and problems related to other systems.
If an operation error is detected by the error detection circuit of the HDD, an interrupt occurs. The
interrupt is posted to the MPU on the PCBA. The MPU stops the currently processed command, and
causes the CHECK CONDITION status to post the error to the initiator.
When receiving the CHECK CONDITION status, the initiaor collects detailed information via
SENSE data.
To analyze the error posted in the operation test, reconstruct the conditions in which the error
occurred. Then, start troubleshooting the whole host system by replacing the HDD.
6.3.3 Diagnostic test
The diagnostic test is executed to find a faulty subassembly in a faulty HDD, or to check HDD
performance. This test is usually a combination of specific HDD functions or group of functions.
This test may be executed using a different host computers or test equipment and away from the
environment where the error first occurred.
To analyze the error posted in the diagnostic test, reconstruct the conditions in which the error
occurred. Then, look for a possibly faulty subassembly or part of the HDD.
The procedures to be used in this test depend largely on the type of test equipment used, and are not
covered by this manual.