JP2005322308A - Device and method for recording/reproducing - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a device for recording/reproducing, capable of improving a data transfer rate as a storage device. <P>SOLUTION: This device is provided with temporary storage means for temporarily storing data, and designed to record data transmitted from an external device by the temporary storing means, or to transmit data reproduced from a recording medium to the external device by the temporary storage means. When a writing/reading request is given from the external device, a free space is detected in the temporary storing means. When the free space is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold value, the temporary storage means or recording/reproducing means is controlled to secure the free space in the temporary storage means, and a response is made to the writing/reading request from the external device immediately before the passage of waiting time for a response to the writing/reading request preset in the external device. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a recording / reproducing apparatus and method, and is particularly suitable for application to a recording / reproducing apparatus having a cache memory for buffering data provided from an external device.

  In recent years, various disc media such as CD (Compact Disc), MD (Mini Disc), DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), and Blu-ray Disc (Blue-Ray Disc) have been developed, and audio data, video data, or other computer data. Are widely used as recording media.

  As a recording / playback apparatus corresponding to these disk media, for example, it is used as a single device, and is connected to a host device such as a personal computer as a computer peripheral device or a device that records and plays back audio data etc. with respect to a CD or MD. A storage device that records and reproduces various data in response to a command from a host device is known.

In recent years, a recording / reproducing apparatus that can be used alone or as a computer peripheral device has been developed by the present applicant (see, for example, Patent Document 1). This recording / reproducing apparatus uses an MD as a recording medium, can be used alone as an MD player, and can also be used as a data storage device by connecting to a host device.
JP 2003-100018 A

  By the way, in general, in a computer data storage device using a disk medium as a recording medium, a cache memory for buffering data transferred from a personal computer is provided therein, and the data from the computer is stored in the cache. A technique is employed in which data is temporarily stored in a memory and then recorded on a disk medium at a predetermined timing.

  In such a data storage device, it is desirable to respond to a write request and a read request from a personal computer as soon as possible.

  In this case, the data storage device responds to the write request and read request from the host of the personal computer as soon as possible, and writes to or reads from the cache memory in the data storage device. Thus, the data transfer speed as a storage device can be improved by improving the throughput between the personal computer and the data storage device.

  However, when a large amount of data is stored in the cache memory, the data storage device stores a storage area in the cache memory for processing a new write request or read request from the personal computer. It may not be secured.

  Therefore, in such a case, the data storage device must first perform the process of recording the data to be recorded in the cache memory on the disk medium in order to secure a storage area for processing the request from the personal computer. Don't be.

  At this time, if the data transfer speed between the cache memory and the disk medium is low, the response time that the data storage device set by the personal computer should respond may pass during the recording process.

  If the data storage device does not respond to the request from the personal computer by the time set by the personal computer, the personal computer issues a reset command due to a timeout to the data storage device.

  In this case, the data storage device must perform processing such as erasing all data on the cache memory based on the reset command, and processing such as temporarily stopping the disk medium and re-accessing the disk medium. However, it takes an enormous amount of time to start again, and as a result, there is a problem that the data transfer speed is greatly deteriorated.

  As described above, even if the data storage device responds to the write request or read request from the personal computer as soon as possible, the final data transfer speed is reduced when the reset command is issued from the personal computer. As a result.

  For this reason, the data storage device must prevent the reset command from being issued from the personal computer due to a timeout as much as possible.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and proposes a recording / reproducing apparatus and method capable of improving the data transfer speed as a storage device.

  In order to solve such a problem, the present invention has a temporary storage means for temporarily storing data, and the data transmitted from the external device is recorded on the recording medium via the temporary storage means or reproduced from the recording medium. In a recording / reproducing apparatus for transmitting the read data to the external device via the temporary storage means, the data read from the temporary storage means is recorded on the recording medium, or the data reproduced from the recording medium is sent via the temporary storage means to the external device And a recording / reproducing means to be read out, a temporary storage means and / or a recording / reproducing means, and a control means for responding to a write or read request from an external device. When a read request is given, the free storage area in the temporary storage means is detected, and when the free storage area is below a predetermined threshold, Control the temporary storage means and / or recording / reproducing means so as to secure a storage area, and in response to a write or read request from the external device, a waiting time for a response to the write or read request previously set in the external device Added a response to the external device just before the progress.

  Thereby, the waiting time for the response to the write or read request is extended, and the data to be recorded stored in the storage area in the temporary storage means is recorded on the recording medium during that time, and the storage area in the temporary storage means is saved. By ensuring, the frequency with which the reset command is issued from the external device can be remarkably reduced.

  In order to solve such a problem, the present invention has temporary storage means for temporarily storing data, and data transmitted from an external device is recorded on the recording medium via the temporary storage means or reproduced from the recording medium. In a recording / reproducing method for transmitting recorded data to an external device via a temporary storage unit, when a write or read request is given from the external device, a first step of detecting a free storage area in the temporary storage unit; When the free storage area is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, the temporary storage means and / or the recording / reproducing means are controlled so as to secure the free storage area in the temporary storage means, and in response to a write or read request from an external device in advance. A second step of responding to the external device immediately before the response waiting time for the write or read request set in the external device elapses

  Thereby, the waiting time for the response to the write or read request is extended, and the data to be recorded stored in the storage area in the temporary storage means is recorded on the recording medium during that time, and the storage area in the temporary storage means is saved. By ensuring, the frequency with which the reset command is issued from the external device can be remarkably reduced.

  Further, in order to solve such a problem, the present invention has a temporary storage means for temporarily storing data, and records data transmitted from an external device on the recording medium via the temporary storage means or reproduces it from the recording medium. In a recording / reproducing apparatus for transmitting recorded data to an external device via a temporary storage unit, data read from the temporary storage unit is recorded on a recording medium, or data reproduced from the recording medium is externally transmitted via a temporary storage unit A recording / reproducing unit to be read out to the device, a temporary storage unit and / or a recording / reproducing unit, and a control unit to respond to a write or read request from the external device are provided. When a request is given, it detects the continuity of the data to which the read request is given, and the data with the continuous length of the data to which the read request is given When a request to read new continuous data is given, the recording / reproducing means is controlled so that data longer than the data for which the read request is given is reproduced from the recording medium. I tried to do it.

  Thus, when a new continuous data read request is made, the data can be transmitted from the temporary storage means to the external device without reading the read requested data from the recording medium.

  As described above, according to the present invention, the data having the temporary storage means for temporarily storing the data, the data transmitted from the external device being recorded on the recording medium via the temporary storage means, or the data reproduced from the recording medium In a recording / reproducing apparatus that transmits data to an external device via a temporary storage unit, data read from the temporary storage unit is recorded on a recording medium, or data reproduced from the recording medium is read to an external device via the temporary storage unit A recording / reproducing means, a temporary storage means and / or a recording / reproducing means, and a control means for responding to a write or read request from an external device are provided, and the control means is a write or read request from an external device. Is detected, the free storage area in the temporary storage means is detected, and when the free storage area is below a predetermined threshold, the free storage area in the temporary storage means is confirmed. The temporary storage means and / or the recording / reproducing means are controlled so that the external device immediately before the elapse of the waiting time of the response to the write or read request set in the external device in advance in response to the write or read request from the external device. By extending the response time to the write or read request, the data to be recorded stored in the storage area in the temporary storage means is recorded on the recording medium, and the temporary storage is performed. By securing the storage area in the means, the frequency with which the reset command is issued from the external device can be remarkably reduced, and thus a recording / reproducing apparatus capable of improving the data transfer speed as a storage device can be realized. .

  Further, as described above, according to the present invention, the temporary storage unit that temporarily stores the data is provided, and the data transmitted from the external device is recorded on the recording medium via the temporary storage unit or reproduced from the recording medium. In a recording / reproducing method for transmitting data to an external device via a temporary storage means, a first step of detecting an empty storage area in the temporary storage means when a write or read request is given from the external device; When the area is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, the temporary storage means and / or the recording / reproducing means are controlled so as to secure a free storage area in the temporary storage means, and in response to a write or read request from an external device in advance A second step of responding to the external device immediately before the response waiting time for the write or read request set in step 2 is provided. This increases the waiting time for the response to the write or read request, and records the data to be recorded stored in the storage area in the temporary storage means on the recording medium during that time, and secures the storage area in the temporary storage means By doing so, the frequency with which the reset command is issued from the external device can be remarkably reduced, and thus a recording / reproducing method capable of improving the data transfer speed as the storage device can be realized.

  Furthermore, as described above, according to the present invention, there is a temporary storage means for temporarily storing data, and the data transmitted from the external device is recorded on the recording medium via the temporary storage means or reproduced from the recording medium. In a recording / reproducing apparatus that transmits data to an external device via a temporary storage unit, the data read from the temporary storage unit is recorded on a recording medium, or the data reproduced from the recording medium is transmitted to the external device via a temporary storage unit. There is provided a recording / reproducing means for reading, a temporary storage means and / or a recording / reproducing means, and a control means for responding to a write or read request from an external device. When given, the read request detects the continuity of the given data, and when the read request exceeds the given data length The recording / reproducing means is controlled so that, when a request to read out new continuous data is given, the data longer than the data given the read request by a predetermined data length is reproduced from the recording medium. Thus, when a new continuous data read request is made, the data can be transmitted from the temporary storage means to the external device without reading the read requested data from the recording medium. A recording / reproducing apparatus capable of reducing the time for accessing the medium and thus improving the data transfer speed as a storage device can be realized.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

(1) Configuration of Recording / Reproducing Device According to the Present Embodiment In FIG. 1, reference numeral 1 denotes a recording / reproducing device according to the present embodiment as a whole. It is made to be able to do. However, the recording / reproducing apparatus 1 is not only a mini-disc for music use, but also a high-density disc (also referred to as a next-generation disc) that enables higher-density recording and can be used for storage of various data for computer use. ) Can be dealt with.

  The recording / reproducing apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment can function as an external storage device for the personal computer 2 by being connected to an external device (hereinafter referred to as a personal computer) 2 via a USB cable 3. Yes. Also, music and various data can be downloaded and stored in the disk 4 by connecting to the network via the personal computer 2 or by installing a function that can be directly connected to the network.

  On the other hand, the recording / reproducing apparatus 1 functions as, for example, an audio device without being connected to the personal computer 2 or the like. For example, music data input from another audio device or the like can be recorded on a disc, and music data recorded on the disc 4 can be reproduced and output.

  That is, the recording / reproducing apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment is an apparatus that can be used as a general-purpose data storage device by being connected to the personal computer 2 or the like, and can be used as a single unit or as an audio recording / reproducing device.

  In the following description, the operation state in which data recording / playback is performed as a connected device of the personal computer 2 is referred to as “storage mode”, and the operation state in which audio recording / playback is performed independently without being connected to the personal computer 2 is referred to as “audio mode”. ".

  Here, prior to the description of the configuration of the recording / reproducing apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment, an outline of a next-generation disk by magneto-optical recording, to which the recording / reproducing apparatus 1 corresponds, will be described.

  First, such next-generation discs use a FAT (File Allocation Table) system as a file management system to record and play back content data such as audio data so that it can be compatible with current personal computers. It is. In addition, the current MD system is improved by an error correction method, a modulation method, and the like, thereby increasing the data recording capacity and improving the data reliability.

  Two types of specifications are currently being developed as recording and playback formats for next-generation discs. For the sake of explanation, these will be referred to as a first next generation MD and a second next generation MD.

  The first next-generation MD is a specification that uses a disk that is exactly the same as the disk used in the current MD system, and the second next-generation MD is a disk that is used in the current MD system. The outer shape is the same, but by using magnetic super-resolution (MSR) technology, the recording density in the linear recording direction is increased and the recording capacity is further increased.

  In the current MD system (audio MD or MD-DATA), a magneto-optical disk having a diameter of 64 mm housed in a cartridge is used as a recording medium. The disc has a thickness of 1.2 mm, and a center hole having a diameter of 11 mm is provided at the center thereof. The cartridge has a length of 68 mm, a width of 72 mm, and a thickness of 5 mm.

  In the specifications of the first and second next generation MDs, the shape of the disk and the shape of the cartridge are all the same. Regarding the start position of the lead-in area, the first and second next-generation MD disks start from a radial position of 29 mm and are the same as the disks used in the current MD system. That is, compatibility with the conventional MD system on the outer shape is ensured.

  The track pitch is set to 1.25 μm in the second next generation MD, and the track pitch is set to 1.6 μm in the first next generation MD that uses the disk of the current MD system. The bit length of the first next generation MD is 0.44 μm / bit, and the second next generation MD is 0.16 μm / bit. The redundancy is 20.50% for both the first and second next generation MDs.

  In the second generation MD specification disk, the recording capacity in the linear density direction is improved by using a magnetic super-resolution technique. In the magnetic super-resolution technology, when a predetermined temperature is reached, the cut layer becomes magnetically neutral, and the magnetic wall transferred to the recording layer is transferred, so that a minute mark can be seen in the beam spot. It is a thing using what becomes.

  Specifically, in the second generation MD disc, a magnetic layer serving as a recording layer for recording information, a cutting layer, and a magnetic layer for reproducing information are stacked on a transparent substrate. The cutting layer is an exchange coupling force adjusting layer. When the temperature reaches a predetermined temperature, the cut layer becomes magnetically neutral, and the domain wall transferred to the recording layer is transferred to the reproducing magnetic layer. As a result, minute marks can be seen in the beam spot. At the time of recording, a minute mark can be generated by using a laser pulse magnetic field modulation technique.

  In the second generation MD disc, the groove is deepened and the groove is sharpened to improve detrack margin, crosstalk from the land, crosstalk of the wobble signal, and focus leakage. Yes. That is, in the second next-generation MD specification disk, the groove depth is, for example, 160 nm to 180 nm, the groove inclination is, for example, 60 degrees to 70 degrees, and the groove width is, for example, 600 nm to 700 nm.

  Regarding the optical specification, in the specification of the first next generation MD, the laser wavelength λ is 780 nm, and the aperture ratio NA of the objective lens of the optical head is 0.45. Similarly, in the specifications of the second next generation MD, the laser wavelength λ is 780 nm, and the aperture ratio NA of the optical head is 0.45.

  As the recording system, the first next generation MD employs a groove recording system that uses a groove (groove on the disk surface of the disk) as a track for recording and reproduction, and the second next generation MD employs a groove recording system and domain wall motion. A detection (DWDD) method is employed.

  Furthermore, as an error correction coding system, convolutional codes based on ACIRC (Advanced Cross Interleave Reed-Solomon Code) have been used in the current MD system, but in the specifications of the first and second next generation MDs, RS A block-complete code combining a Reed Solomon-Long Distance Code (LDC) and a Burst Indicator Subcode (BIS) is used. By employing this block completion type error correction code, a linking sector is not required. In an error correction method combining LDC and BIS, an error location can be detected by BIS when a burst error occurs. Using this error location, erasure correction can be performed by the LDC code.

  As an addressing method, a wobbled groove method is used in which a single spiral groove is formed and wobbles as address information are formed on both sides of the groove. Such an address system is called ADIP (Address in Pregroove).

  The specification of ADIP is the same as that of the current MD system. However, in the current MD system, a sector of 2352 bytes is used as an access unit for recording and reproduction, whereas the first and second next generation MDs are used. In the specification, 64 Kbytes are used as a recording / reproducing access unit (recording block).

  In the current MD system, a convolutional code called ACIRC is used as an error correction code, whereas in the specifications of the first and second next generation MDs, a block completion type combining LDC and BIS. Is used.

  Therefore, in the specification of the first next generation MD that uses the disk of the current MD system, the handling of the ADIP signal is made different from that in the current MD system. In the second next-generation MD, the specification of the ADIP signal is changed so as to match the specification of the second next-generation MD.

  As for the modulation method, EFM (8 to 14 Modulation) is used in the current MD system, whereas RLL (1, 7) PP (RLL) is used in the specifications of the first and second next generation MDs. Run Length Limited, PP; Parity Preserve / Prohibit rmtr (repeated minimum transtion run length)) (hereinafter referred to as 1-7pp modulation). Further, the data detection method is Viterbi using partial response PR (1, 2, 1) ML in the first next generation MD and using partial response PR (1, -1) ML in the second next generation MD. It is a decoding method.

  Further, the disk drive system is CLV (Constant Linear Verocity), and the linear velocity is 2.7 m / sec in the first next generation MD specification, and 1.98 m in the second next generation MD specification. Per second. In the specification of the current MD system, it is 1.2 m / second for a 60-minute disk and 1.4 m / second for a 74-minute disk.

  In the specification of the first next-generation MD in which a disk used in the current MD system is used as it is, the total data recording capacity per disk is about 300 Mbytes (when an 80-minute disk is used). By changing the modulation method from EFM modulation to 1-7pp modulation, the window margin is changed from 0.5 to 0.666, and in this respect, a 1.33 times higher density can be realized.

  Further, since the error correction method is a combination of BIS and LDC from the ACIRC method, the data efficiency is improved, and in this respect, 1.48 times higher density can be realized. Overall, a data capacity of about twice that of the current MD system was realized using exactly the same disk.

  On the other hand, in the disc of the second next generation MD specification using magnetic super-resolution, the recording density is further increased in the linear density direction, and the total data recording capacity is about 1 Gbyte. The data rate is 4.4 Mbit / sec in the first next generation MD, and 9.8 Mbit / sec in the second next generation MD.

  FIG. 2A shows the configuration of the first next-generation MD disk. The first next-generation MD disc is a diverted version of the current MD system disc. That is, a dielectric film, a magnetic film, a dielectric film, and a reflective film are laminated on a transparent polycarbonate substrate. Further, a protective film is laminated thereon.

  In the first next-generation MD disk, as shown in FIG. 2A, a P-TOC (pre-mastered TOC (Table Of Contents)) area is provided in the lead-in area on the inner periphery of the disk. This is a pre-mastered area as a physical structure, and control information and the like are recorded as P-TOC information by embossed pits.

  The outer periphery of the lead-in area in which the P-TOC area is provided in this way is a recordable area (a magneto-optical recording area), which is a recordable / reproducible area in which a groove is formed as a guide groove for a recording track. ing. A U-TOC (user TOC) is provided on the inner periphery of the recordable area.

  The U-TOC in this case has the same configuration as the U-TOC used for recording disc management information in the current MD system. For confirmation, the U-TOC is management information that can be rewritten according to the order of tracks (audio tracks / data tracks), recording, erasing, etc. in the current MD system. The start position, end position, and mode are managed for the parts constituting the track.

  An alert track is provided on the outer periphery of the U-TOC. The alert track is a warning track on which a warning sound indicating that this disc is used in the first next generation MD system and cannot be reproduced by a player of the current MD system is recorded.

  FIG. 2B shows the configuration of the recordable area of the disc of the first next generation MD specification. As is clear from FIG. 2B, a U-TOC and an alert track are provided at the beginning (inner peripheral side) of the recordable area. In the area including the U-TOC and the alert track, the data is modulated by EFM and recorded so that it can be reproduced by a player of the current MD system.

  An area where data is modulated and recorded by 1-7pp modulation of the next generation MD1 system is provided on the outer periphery of the area where the data is modulated and recorded by the EFM modulation. The area where data is modulated and recorded by EFM modulation and the area where data is modulated and recorded by 1-7pp modulation are separated by a predetermined distance, and a guard band is provided. . Since such a guard band is provided, it is possible to prevent a malfunction from being caused by mounting the disc of the first next generation MD specification on the current MD player.

  A DDT (Disc Description Table) area and a secure track are provided at the beginning (inner circumference side) of an area where data is modulated and recorded by 1-7pp modulation. The DDT area is provided for performing a replacement sector process for a physically defective sector (recording block). A disc ID is further recorded in the DDT area. The disk ID is an identification code unique to each recording medium, and is based on a predetermined random number, for example.

  In addition, a bit map corresponding to a recorded cluster called “1” is recorded as a scratch pad area or SRB (Serial Recording Bitmap). The secure track stores information for protecting the content.

  Furthermore, a FAT (File Allocation Table) area is provided in an area where data is modulated and recorded by 1-7pp modulation. This FAT area is an area for managing data in the FAT system.

  The FAT system performs data management conforming to the FAT system used in general-purpose personal computers. The FAT system performs file management by a FAT chain using a directory indicating entry points of files and directories at the root and a FAT table in which FAT cluster connection information is described.

  In such a disc of the first next generation MD specification, in the above-mentioned U-TOC area, information on the start position of the alert track and the start position of the area where the data is modulated by 1-7pp modulation and recorded This information is recorded.

  Here, when a first next-generation MD disc having the above-described configuration is loaded into a player of the current MD system, the U-TOC area is read, and the position of the alert track is known from the U-TOC information. , The alert track is accessed and the playback of the alert track is started.

  In the alert track, a warning sound is recorded indicating that this disc is used in the first next generation MD system and cannot be reproduced by a player of the current MD system. This warning sound informs that this disc cannot be used with the current MD system player. Note that the warning sound in this case may be a warning in a language such as “cannot be used with this player”. Of course, a buzzer sound may be used.

  On the other hand, when the disc of the first next generation MD is mounted on the player compliant with the first next generation MD, the U-TOC area is read, and the data is 1-7pp modulated from the U-TOC information. The start position of the recorded area is known, and the above-described DDT, secure track, and FAT area are read. As described above, in the 1-7pp modulation data area, data management is performed by the FAT system, not by the U-TOC.

  FIG. 3A shows the configuration of a second next-generation MD disk. Also in this case, the disk is formed by laminating a dielectric film, a magnetic film, a dielectric film, a reflective film on a transparent polycarbonate substrate, and a protective film on the upper layer.

  In the case of the second next-generation MD disc, as shown in the figure, control information is recorded in the lead-in area on the inner periphery of the disc by an ADIP signal.

  In the second next-generation MD disc, the lead-in area is not provided with a P-TOC by embossed pits, and instead, control information by an ADIP signal is used. The recordable area starts from the outer periphery of the lead-in area, and is a recordable / reproducible area in which a groove is formed as a guide groove for a recording track. In this recordable area, data is modulated and recorded by the 1-7 pp modulation method.

  Whether a disc is the first next generation MD or the second next generation MD can be determined from the lead-in information. That is, if a P-TOC due to an embossed pit is detected in the lead-in, it can be determined that the disc is the current MD or the first next-generation MD. If control information based on the ADIP signal is detected in the lead-in and the P-TOC due to the embossed pit is not detected, it can be determined that the second next-generation MD.

  The discrimination between the first and second next generation MDs is not limited to such a method. It is also possible to discriminate from the phase of the tracking error signal between on-track and off-track. Of course, a detection hole for disc identification may be provided in the cartridge or the like.

  As the configuration of the recordable area of the disc of the second next generation MD specification, as shown in FIG. 3B, an area where data is modulated and recorded by the 1-7pp modulation method is formed. A DDT area and a secure track are provided at the head (inner circumference side) of an area where data is modulated and recorded by the 1-7pp modulation method.

  Also in this case, the above-mentioned DDT area is an area for performing a replacement sector process on a physically defective sector (recording block). In the DDT area, the above-mentioned disc ID is recorded. Further, the above-described scratch pad area and SRB are provided. Further, in this case, information for protecting the content is stored in the secure track.

  Further, a FAT area is also provided in an area where data is modulated and recorded by 1-7pp modulation. The FAT area is an area for managing data in the FAT system. The FAT system performs data management conforming to the FAT system used in general-purpose personal computers.

  In the second next-generation MD disc as described above, as is apparent from FIG. 3B, the U-TOC area is not provided. That is, the second next-generation MD disc is assumed to be used only by a player compliant with the next-generation MD.

  In a player compliant with the next-generation MD, when a second next-generation MD disc is loaded, the DDT area, secure track, and FAT area at a predetermined position are read, and data management is performed using the FAT system. It will be.

  Data managed by the FAT system and recorded in the data area of FIGS. 2B and 3B includes a data file, a track information file (TIF), a key information file, a MAC list file, and the like.

  The data file is a data file such as audio data or computer use data.

  The track information file (TIF) is a file in which various information for managing music data stored in an audio data file is described. The track information file includes a play order table that indicates the playback order of the music, a programmed play order table that manages the playback order specified by the user, a group information table that manages whether the music is in groups of albums, etc. ), A part information table for managing parts of each track, and a name table for managing character information added to each track.

  Furthermore, the key information file describes data indicating key version information in the encryption method. Further, the MAC list file describes the MAC value for tampering check.

  Returning to FIG. 1, the overall configuration of the recording / reproducing apparatus 1 according to this embodiment will be described.

  In FIG. 1, a USB interface 10 performs processing for data transmission when connected to a personal computer 2 connected as a host device with a USB cable 3.

  The cache memory 11 is composed of, for example, a D-RAM (Dynamic-RAM (Random Access Memory)), and data to be written to the disk 4 loaded in the storage unit 12 or data read from the disk 4 by the storage unit 12. Do buffering for.

  The storage unit 12 is a recording / reproducing unit corresponding to the current MD and the first and second next-generation MDs described above. In the recording mode, the storage unit 12 applies EFM modulation scheme or 1 to data transferred from the cache memory 11. Modulate by -7pp modulation method and write (record) on disk 4. In the reproduction mode, the storage unit 12 demodulates the data read (reproduced) from the disk 4 by the EFM demodulation method or the 1-7pp demodulation method and transfers the data to the cache memory 11.

  The system controller 13 receives various commands such as a write request and a read request from the personal computer 2 via the USB interface 10 and performs various control processes such as controlling the cache memory 11 and the storage unit 12 according to the commands. Execute.

  For example, when the system controller 13 receives a data write request specifying the address and data length transmitted from the personal computer 13 via the USB interface 10, the system controller 13 controls the USB interface 10 and the cache memory 11 accordingly. Thereafter, the data transmitted from the personal computer 13 is input to the cache memory 11 via the USB interface 10 and temporarily stored. The system controller 13 then controls the cache memory 11 and the storage unit 12 to transfer the data temporarily stored in the cache memory 11 to the storage unit 12 and write it to the designated address position on the disk 4. Make it.

  When the system controller 13 receives a data read request specifying the address and data length transmitted from the personal computer 13 via the USB interface 10, the system controller 13 controls the storage unit 12 and the cache memory 11 accordingly. The designated data is read from the disk 4 and transferred to the cache memory 11 and temporarily stored in the cache memory 11. The system controller 13 then controls the cache memory 11 and the USB interface 10 to transmit data temporarily stored in the cache memory 11 to the personal computer 2 via the USB interface 10.

  The input / output processing unit 14 performs processing for input / output of recording / playback data, for example, when the recording / playback apparatus 1 functions alone as an audio device.

  The input / output processing unit 14 includes, for example, an analog audio signal input unit such as a line input circuit / microphone input circuit, an analog / digital converter, a digital audio data input unit, and an ATRAC compression encoder / decoder as an input system. The ATRAC compression encoder / decoder is a circuit for executing compression / decompression processing of audio data by the ATRAC system. Of course, the recording / reproducing apparatus 1 of the present embodiment may adopt a configuration capable of recording / reproducing compressed audio data in another format such as MP3. In this case, these compressed audio data may be used. An encoder / decoder corresponding to the data format may be provided.

  In the present embodiment, video data is not limited to a format that can be recorded / reproduced. For example, MPEG (Moving Pictures Experts Group) 4 can be considered. As the input / output processing unit 14, an encoder / decoder corresponding to such a format may be provided.

  Further, the input / output processing unit 14 includes an analog audio signal output unit such as a digital audio data output unit, a digital / analog converter, and a line output circuit / headphone output circuit as an output system.

  In this case, an encryption processing unit (not shown) is provided in the input / output processing unit 14. In the encryption processing unit, for example, the AV data to be written on the disk is encrypted by a predetermined algorithm. For example, when the AV data read from the disk is encrypted, a decryption process for decryption is executed as necessary.

  Audio data is recorded on the disc as processing via the input / output processing unit 14 when, for example, digital audio data (or an analog audio signal) is input to the input / output processing unit 14 as an input TIN. The input linear PCM digital audio data or the linear PCM audio data obtained by converting the analog audio signal and converting it by the analog / digital converter is subjected to ATRAC compression encoding as necessary and stored in the cache memory 11. . Then, the data is read from the cache memory 11 and transferred to the storage unit 12 at a predetermined timing (data unit corresponding to an ADIP cluster). In the storage unit 12, the transferred compressed data is modulated by a predetermined modulation method and written to the disk 4.

  When mini-disc type audio data is reproduced from the disk 4, the storage unit 12 demodulates the reproduced data into the ATRAC compressed data state and transfers it to the cache memory 11. The data is read from the cache memory 11 and transferred to the input / output processing unit 14. The input / output processing unit 14 performs ATRAC compression decoding on the supplied compressed audio data to obtain linear PCM audio data, which is output from the digital audio data output unit. Alternatively, line output / headphone output is performed as an analog audio signal by a digital / analog converter.

  A ROM (Read Only Memory) 15A stores an operation program of the system controller 13, fixed parameters, and the like. The RAM 15B is used as a work area by the system controller 13 and is a storage area for various necessary information. For example, various management information and special information read from the disk 4 by the storage unit 12, such as the above-described P-TOC data, U-TOC data, FAT data, etc., are stored in the cache memory 11. In the storage mode, the data is then transferred to the personal computer. However, the system controller 13 takes necessary information out of the management information into the RAM 15B for processing.

  The cache management memory 16 is composed of, for example, an S-RAM (Static-RAM), and stores information for managing the state of the cache memory 11. The system controller 13 controls data cache processing while referring to the cache management memory 16.

  The display unit 17 displays various information to be presented to the user based on the control of the system controller 13. For example, character data such as operation state, mode state, name of music, track number, time information, and other information are displayed.

  In the present embodiment, for example, when the disk 4 is a next-generation disk, it is assumed that image data is stored in association with the music data on the disk 4, but the display unit 17 It is also conceivable to display the image data correlated in this way based on the control of the system controller 13 when the disk 4 is loaded or played back.

  Various operation buttons, a jog dial, and the like are formed in the operation unit 18 as various operators for user operations. The user gives a required operation instruction to the recording / reproducing apparatus 1 by operating the operation unit 18. The system controller 13 performs predetermined control processing based on the operation information input by the operation unit 18.

  Note that the configuration of the recording / reproducing apparatus 1 described so far is merely an example, and for example, the input / output processing unit 14 may be provided with an input / output processing system corresponding to not only audio data but also video data. Further, the connection with the personal computer 2 is not USB, but other external interfaces such as IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers) 1394 may be used. Further, as the operation unit 18, it is possible to provide an operation element similar to that exemplified above on the remote controller.

(2) Cache Memory Write / Read Control Next, the cache memory 11 write / read control in the recording mode in the recording / reproducing apparatus 1 will be described.

  In the recording / reproducing apparatus 1, data writing and reading are all performed in cluster units. This is because, as described above, in the specifications of the first and second next-generation MDs, 64 Kbytes, which is the data amount for one cluster, is used as a recording / reproducing access unit (recording block). Accordingly, data exchange among the personal computer 2, the cache memory 11, and the storage unit 12, and a data management unit in the cache memory 11 are also performed in units of clusters.

  Here, the configuration in the cache memory 11 is as shown in FIG. 4, and the data transmitted from the personal computer 2 in cluster units by designating the address (address) and data length (length) on the disk 4 is cache data. The data is stored in a predetermined position in a storage area 19 (hereinafter referred to as a cache) 19 having a storage capacity for 36 clusters of data in the memory 11.

  When data is written to the cache memory 11, the data is read from the cache memory 11 in units of clusters, transferred to the storage unit 12, and written to the disk 4 in units of clusters. .

  In practice, as shown in FIG. 5, the system controller 13 receives a data write request (WRITE) of data length (address 11, length 1) for one cluster from the 11th cluster from the personal computer 2. Secures a cache 19 for the requested cluster in the cache memory 11 and returns a response to the personal computer 2 to store the data of the eleventh cluster transmitted from the personal computer 2 in the cache memory 11. .

  Further, as shown in FIG. 5, the system controller 13 adds the 12th to 15th clusters from the personal computer 2 to the data length of one cluster (address 12, length 1 / address 13, length 1 / address 14, length 1 / address 15, when a sequential write request (WRITE) is given to the data of length 1), similarly, by returning a response to the personal computer 2, the data of the 12th to 15th clusters transmitted from the personal computer 2 is obtained. The cache memory 11 is sequentially stored.

  On the other hand, data read from the disk 4 in cluster units is transferred to the cache memory 11 via the storage unit 12 and stored in a predetermined position in the cache 19 in the cache memory 11.

  When data is read from the cache memory 11, the data is then read from the cache memory 11 to the personal computer 2 in units of clusters.

  At this time, when a read request is given to the system controller 13 by designating the address (address) and data length (length) on the disk 4 from the personal computer 2, the read requested data has a certain data length. In the case where the data continues beyond the required address, a cluster prefetching function is provided that reads the data into the cache memory 11 by a predetermined amount more than the data length from the required address.

  As a means for performing such cluster pre-read function control of the cache memory 11, the system controller 13 reads the read request storage column 20 A from the personal computer 2 and the read storage column 20 B from the disk 4 as shown in FIG. The cache management memory 16 (FIG. 1) has a continuous data length management table 20 provided with a continuous data length storage column 20C.

  The system controller 13 writes and manages the address (address) and data length (length) requested to be read in the read request storage column 20A from the personal computer 2 of the continuous data length management table 20, and also reads the read request from the personal computer 2. Is detected, the continuity (continuous data length) of the data requested to be read is detected from the address (address) and data length (length), and the continuous data length is detected as a continuation of the continuous data length management table 20. It is written in the data length storage column 20C to manage whether or not the continuous data length exceeds a preset threshold value.

  Further, the system controller 13 manages the address (address) and data length (length) read from the disk 4 by writing them into the read storage column 20B from the disk 4 of the continuous data length management table 20 after that.

  Thus, when a read request is given from the personal computer 2, the system controller 13 refers to the continuous data length management table 20 and determines whether or not the continuous data length exceeds a preset threshold value. . Then, the system controller 13 assumes that when the requested continuous data length exceeds the threshold value, a continuous data read request will be given in the future, and from the data length from the requested address (cluster). Are pre-read for a predetermined cluster and read into the cache memory 11.

  For example, the system controller 13 sets the threshold for performing the cluster prefetching function to data having a data length of 10 clusters, and if the threshold is exceeded, prefetches data for the required data length by 5 clusters.

  At this time, as shown in FIG. 6, when a data read request (READ) of data length (address 20, length 5) for five clusters is given from the 20th cluster from the personal computer 2, the continuous data length 15 exceeds the threshold, so the data length of 5 clusters from the 20th cluster is read ahead by 5 clusters, and the data of 10 clusters from the 20th cluster (address 20, length 10) is stored on the disk. 4 is read into the cache memory 11.

  Here, since the data requested to be read from the personal computer 2 is only data having a data length of 5 clusters from the 20th cluster, data having a data length of 10 clusters from the 20th cluster is actually cached. Although stored in the memory 11, here, the personal computer 2 reads only data having a data length of 5 clusters from the 20th cluster.

  Thereafter, when a read request (READ) of data length (address 20, length 5) for five clusters is given from the 25th cluster from the personal computer 2, the data is already prefetched and the cache memory 11 Therefore, data having a data length of 5 clusters from the 25th cluster is read from the cache memory 11 to the personal computer 2 without accessing the disk 4 and reading the data from the disk 4. Has been made.

  In this way, when the continuous data length is detected from the address (address) and data length (length) requested to be read and the continuous data length exceeds the threshold, data from the requested address (cluster) is detected. By pre-reading a predetermined number of clusters over the length and reading it into the cache memory 11, when continuous data is subsequently requested, the disk 4 is accessed and read from the cache memory 11 without being read from the disk 4. Data having a data length from an address (cluster) required by the computer 2 can be read.

  Here, in the present embodiment, the system controller 13 sets the threshold value for performing the cluster prefetching function to 0 based on this principle, and if the threshold value is exceeded, the data length from the required address (cluster) is set. Only the data having a data length of 4 clusters is read ahead of the data.

  That is, when a read request is given from the personal computer 2, the system controller 13 pre-reads data having a data length of 4 clusters rather than data having a data length from the requested address (cluster) and stores the data in the cache memory. 11 is read out.

  In practice, as shown in FIG. 7, the system controller 13 receives a data read request (READ) having a data length (address 11, length 1) of one cluster from the 11th cluster from the personal computer 2. Reads data of the 11th to 15th clusters from the disk 4 into the cache memory 11 and returns a response to the personal computer 2 to transmit the data of the 11th cluster to the personal computer 2.

  In addition, the system controller 13 continues to the data length of one cluster from the 12th to 15th clusters from the personal computer 2 (address 12, length 1 / address 13, length 1 / address 14, length 1 / address 15, length 1). If a sequential read request is given with the data of the above, the data of the clusters Nos. 12 to 15 are returned by sequentially returning a response to the personal computer 2 without accessing the disk 4 and reading it from the disk 4. The data is sequentially transmitted to the personal computer 2.

  On the other hand, the system controller 13 writes data to the disk 4 when a read request is given from the personal computer 2 while the cluster data stored in the cache memory 11 is written to the disk 4. It is possible to interrupt and respond preferentially to a read request from the personal computer 2.

  At this time, as shown in FIG. 8, the system controller 13 writes the data of the 11th to 15th clusters stored in the cache memory 11 to the disk 4 from the personal computer 2 to the 16th. When a data read request (READ) of data length (address 11, length 1) for one cluster is given from the cluster, the data transfer of the 11th to 15th clusters is interrupted.

  Then, the system controller 13 reads the data of the 16th to 20th clusters from the disk 4 into the cache memory 11 and returns a response to the personal computer 2, thereby transferring the data of the 11th cluster to the personal computer 2. Send it.

  In this way, the system controller 13 returns a response to the read request from the personal computer 2 without causing the personal computer 2 to wait, and causes the personal computer 2 to transmit the read-requested data. 2 and the cache memory 11 can be improved in throughput.

(3) Cache memory writing and reading control in tight mode When a large amount of data is stored in the cache 19 in the cache memory 11, there is a new writing request or reading request from the personal computer 2. However, the free cache 19 ′ in the cache memory 11 may not be secured. In this case, a response to the write request or read request cannot be made, and a write or read request from the personal computer 2 is awaited. Finally, a reset command due to a timeout is issued from the personal computer 2. .

  Therefore, in the recording / reproducing apparatus 1, when the above-described write and read control is set to the “normal mode”, the free cache 19 ′ is set to a predetermined cache value according to the free cache 19 ′ in the cache memory 11. When it becomes, the writing and reading control are switched to the “tight mode”.

  At this time, the system controller 13 detects a free cache 19 ′ in the cache memory 11 as means for switching to the “tight mode”. When the free cache 19 ′ falls below a predetermined threshold value, the system controller 13 does not return a response to the write or read request from the personal computer 2 until a time-out occurs, The cluster data to be written stored in the cache memory 11 is written to the disk 4.

  In this case, the threshold value is a response time to a write request or a read request from the personal computer 2 in the tight mode, and the time for writing the data having the maximum continuous data length to the disk 4 among the data to be written at a time. Set by the time to return.

  Therefore, the time for writing the data having the maximum continuous data length to the disk 4 among the data to be written at once is X, and the time for returning a response to the write request or read request from the personal computer 2 in the tight mode is Y. Then, if the threshold value Z is divisible,

If the value is not divisible by X, the following formula is used, where X is divided by Y, the fractional part is rounded down, and the integer part is the solution.

Thus, it can be seen that when the free cache 19 'in the cache memory 11 reaches the threshold value Z, the mode is switched to the tight mode.

  In the tight mode, when the cluster data stored in the cache memory 11 is written to the disk 4 as described above, even when a read request is given from the personal computer 2, the disk Write to 4 without interruption.

  For example, in the case of the present embodiment, the maximum continuous data length data among the data to be written at one time is data for 12 clusters, and the time at that time is 20 seconds.

  Further, since the response time that the recording / playback apparatus 1 set by the personal computer 2 should respond to is normally set to 5 seconds, the system controller 13 responds to a write request or a read request from the personal computer 2 in the tight mode for safety. The response return time is set to 4 seconds.

  In such a case, since X = 20 and Y = 4, the threshold value Z is 4 based on the above equation (2). Therefore, when the free cache 19 'in the cache memory 11 becomes 4 caches or less, the mode is switched to the tight mode.

  In practice, as shown in FIG. 9, the system controller 13 receives a data write request (WRITE) of data length (address 11, length 1) for one cluster from the 11th cluster from the personal computer 2. Secures a cache 19 for the requested cluster in the cache memory 11 and returns a response to the personal computer 2 to store the data of the eleventh cluster transmitted from the personal computer 2 in the cache memory 11. .

  At this time, the system controller 13 detects that the free cache 19 'in the cache memory 11 has become 4 caches or less, and switches to the tight mode, for example, the maximum continuous data length of data to be written at once. The writing of data for 12 clusters, which is the above-described data, to the disk 4 is started.

  When the system controller 13 subsequently receives a data write request (WRITE) of data length (address 12, length 1) for one cluster from the 12th cluster from the personal computer 2, the system controller 13 sends the data to the personal computer 2. By returning a response after 4 seconds, the data of the twelfth cluster transmitted from the personal computer 2 is stored in the cache memory 11.

  Further, the system controller 13 writes a write request (WRITE) with the data of the data length (address 13, length 1 / address 14, length 1 / address 15, length 1) of one cluster from the personal computer 2 to the 13th to 15th clusters. Are sequentially given to the personal computer 2 in the same manner, the data of the 13th to 15th clusters transmitted from the personal computer 2 are sequentially stored in the cache memory 11 by sequentially returning a response after 4 seconds.

  When the system controller 13 subsequently receives a data write request (WRITE) of data length (address 16, length 1) for one cluster from the 16th cluster from the personal computer 2, as shown in FIG. Returns a response to the personal computer 2 after 4 seconds.

  At this point, the writing of data for 12 clusters that started writing to the disk 4 is completed, and thus the system controller 13 has written the data of the 16th cluster transmitted from the personal computer 2 to the disk 4. For example, the data can be overwritten and stored in the cache 19 in which the data of the cluster No. 101 is stored.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 11, the system controller 13 receives a data read request (READ) of data length (address 11, length 1) for one cluster from the 11th cluster from the personal computer 2. Reads the data of the 11th to 15th clusters from the disk 4 into the cache memory 11.

  At this time, the system controller 13 detects that the free cache 19 ′ in the cache memory 11 has become 4 caches or less, switches to the tight mode, and transfers the data to the disk 4 having a data length of 12 clusters as described above. Start writing.

  Thereafter, the system controller 13 returns the response to the personal computer 2 after 4 seconds, thereby causing the personal computer 2 to transmit the data of the 11th cluster.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the system controller 13 adds the 12th to 15th clusters from the personal computer 2 to the data length of one cluster (address 12, length 1 / address 13, length 1 / address 14, length 1 / address 15, when a read request (READ) is sequentially given with data of 1), similarly, a response is sequentially returned to the personal computer 2 after 4 seconds, whereby the data of the 12th to 15th clusters are transferred to the personal computer 2. Are sent sequentially.

  At this point, the writing of data for 12 clusters that have started to be written to the disk 4 is completed. Thus, as shown in FIG. 12, the system controller 13 subsequently switches the cluster No. 16 from the personal computer 2 to one cluster. When a data read request (READ) with a data length of 16 minutes (address 16, length 1) is given, the data of the 16th to 20th clusters are read from the disk 4 into the cache memory 11 and the personal computer By returning a response to 2, the data of the cluster No. 16 can be transmitted to the personal computer 2.

(4) Write and Read Request Response Processing Procedure Here, the write request response processing procedure by the system controller 13 as described above is based on the write request response processing procedure RT1 shown in FIG. 13 based on the control program stored in the ROM. Done.

  That is, when a write request is given from the personal computer 2, the system controller 13 starts the write request response processing procedure RT1 at step SP0, and determines whether or not there is a free cache 19 'in the cache memory 11 at the subsequent step SP1. To do. If the system controller 13 obtains a positive result in step SP1, it proceeds to step SP5. If it obtains a negative result, it proceeds to step SP2, and whether the cluster data to be written is being written to the disk 4. Judge whether or not.

  If the system controller 13 obtains a positive result in step SP2, the system controller 13 proceeds to step SP3, waits in that state, then returns to step SP1, and if it obtains a negative result, it proceeds to step SP4. Writing of the cluster data to be written to the disk 4 is started, and the process returns to step SP1.

  Further, the system controller 13 thereafter proceeds to step SP5 and determines whether or not the compression mode is set. If the system controller 13 obtains a positive result in step SP5, it proceeds to step SP10. If it obtains an affirmative result, it proceeds to step SP6, and whether the cluster data to be written is being written to the disk 4. Judge whether or not.

  If the system controller 13 obtains a negative result in step SP6, it proceeds to step SP7 and waits as it is. If it obtains an affirmative result, it proceeds to step SP4 and stores the data of the cluster to be written. Writing to the disk 4 is started.

  Further, the system controller 13 thereafter proceeds to step SP9 and determines whether or not it is within 4 seconds after the write request is given from the personal computer 2. If the system controller 13 obtains a positive result in step SP9, it returns to step SP5. If it obtains a negative result, it proceeds to step SP10, returns a response to the personal computer 2, and is transmitted from the personal computer 2. Data is stored in the cache memory 11. Then, the system controller 13 proceeds to step SP11 and ends this write request response processing procedure RT1.

  On the other hand, the read request response processing procedure by the system controller 13 as described above is performed according to the read request response processing procedure RT2 shown in FIG. 14 based on the control program stored in the ROM.

  That is, when a read request is given from the personal computer 2, the system controller 13 starts the read request response processing procedure RT2 in step SP12, and the requested data is stored in the cache 19 in the cache memory 11 in the subsequent step SP13. Determine whether or not. If the system controller 13 obtains a positive result in step SP13, it proceeds to step SP19. If it obtains a negative result, it proceeds to step SP14, and whether the cluster data to be written is being written to the disk 4. Judge whether or not.

  If the system controller 13 obtains a negative result in step SP14, it proceeds to step SP18, and if it obtains an affirmative result, it proceeds to step SP15 and determines whether or not it is a tight mode. If the system controller 13 obtains a positive result in step SP15, the system controller 13 proceeds to step SP16, waits in the same state, returns to step SP13, and on the other hand, obtains a negative result in step SP13, step SP17. Then, the writing of the cluster data to be written to the disk 4 is interrupted, and the process returns to step SP13.

  The system controller 13 then proceeds to step SP18, reads the requested data and the data to be prefetched from the disk 4 into the cache memory 11, and then returns to step SP13.

  Further, the system controller 13 thereafter performs the same processing as step SP5 to step SP10 in the write request response processing procedure RT1 described above in step SP19 to step SP24. Then, the system controller 13 proceeds to step SP25, and ends this read request response processing procedure RT2.

  In this way, the system controller 13 can control the cache memory 11 and the disk 4 and respond to write requests and read requests from the personal computer 2.

(5) Operation and effect according to the present embodiment In the above configuration, when a write or read request is given from the personal computer 2, the free cache 19 'in the cache memory 11 is detected and the free cache 19' exists. It is determined whether or not the cache value has been reached. If applicable, a response is returned immediately before the response time set for issuing a reset command in response to a write or read request from the personal computer 2.

  Therefore, by extending the time for responding to the personal computer 2 and writing the data to be written stored in the cache memory 11 to the disk 4 during that time, thereby securing a free cache 19 ′ in the cache memory 11, The frequency with which the reset command is issued from the personal computer 2 can be significantly reduced.

  In addition, the continuity of data requested to be read from the personal computer 2 is detected, and it is determined whether or not the data has a certain length or more. If applicable, new continuous data is read. When requested, data having a data length longer than the data requested to be read is transferred from the disk 4 to the cache memory 11 via the storage unit 12.

  Accordingly, when a new continuous data read request is made, the read requested data can be read from the cache memory 11 to the personal computer 2 without being read from the disk 4.

  According to the above configuration, when a write or read request is given from the personal computer 2, the free cache 19 'in the cache memory 11 is detected, and whether or not the free cache 19' has reached a certain cache value. The time to respond to the personal computer is determined by returning a response immediately before the response time set for issuing the reset command in response to a write or read request from the personal computer 2, if applicable. The personal computer 2 issues a reset command by extending the data and writing the data to be written stored in the cache memory 11 in the meantime to the disk 4 and securing the free cache 19 'in the cache memory 11. Can you reduce the frequency dramatically? It is possible to improve the data transfer rate as a storage device of the recording and reproducing apparatus 1 in.

  In addition, the continuity of data requested to be read from the personal computer 2 is detected, and it is determined whether or not the data has a certain length or more. If applicable, new continuous data is read. When requested to read new continuous data by transferring data having a data length longer than the data requested to be read from the disk 4 to the cache memory 11 via the storage unit 12 when requested. In addition, the data requested to be read can be read from the cache memory 11 to the personal computer 2 without reading from the disk 4, thereby reducing the time for accessing the disk 4, and thus the storage device of the recording / reproducing apparatus 1. As a result, the data transfer speed can be improved.

(6) Other Embodiments In the above-described embodiment, the present invention is applied to the recording / reproducing apparatus corresponding to the current MD and the first and second next-generation MDs described above. As described above, the present invention is not limited to this, and can be widely applied to recording / reproducing apparatuses compatible with various other recording media.

  In the above-described embodiment, the case where the cache memory 11 composed of D-RAM is applied as temporary storage means for temporarily storing data transferred from a personal computer as an external device has been described. The present invention is not limited to this, and various devices other than the cache memory 11 can be widely applied.

  Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, when a write or read request is given from the personal computer 2, the free cache 19 ′ in the cache memory 11 is detected, and when the free cache 19 ′ is below a predetermined threshold, “ Although the case where it is determined to be `` tight mode '' has been described, the present invention is not limited to this, for example, when a write or read request is given, the cluster data stored in the cache memory 11, The time interval at which a write or read request is given, or the cache value of the free cache 19 'per unit time may be detected, and other determination criteria are applied as the determination criteria for such "tight mode". May be.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the threshold value returns a response to the request from the personal computer 2 in the time for writing the data having the maximum continuous data length to the disk 4 among the data to be written at once and the tight mode. Although the present invention is not limited to this, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the time for writing the data having the maximum continuous data length among the data to be written at once to the disk 4 is the vibration of the disk 4. It is also possible to set the longest time that the disk 4 waits when the disk 4 becomes unusable due to sound skipping or laser power adjustment, and to set the threshold based on the time.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, when the requested continuous data length exceeds the threshold, the system controller 13 reads ahead by a predetermined cluster amount from the data length from the requested address (cluster). The case where data is read into the cache memory 11 and the data length is set to the same value as the threshold value for switching to the tight mode has been described.
A data length equal to or less than the threshold value for switching to the tight mode may be prefetched.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the response time to be responded by the recording / playback apparatus 1 set by the personal computer 2 is normally set to 5 seconds. Therefore, for safety, the system controller 13 is disconnected from the personal computer 2 in the tight mode. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the present invention is not limited to this. In consideration of these various errors, etc., the write and read requests from the personal computer 2 are handled. It is also possible to set a time for returning a response.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, a case has been described in which data exchange between the personal computer 2, the cache memory 11 and the storage unit 12 and a data management unit in the cache memory 11 are performed in cluster units. The invention is not limited to this. For example, the invention may be applied to various other data exchanges and data management units such as data exchanges with different management units among the personal computer 2, the cache memory 11, and the storage unit 12. May be.

  The present invention can be applied to a recording / reproducing apparatus for recording / reproducing data on various disk media in addition to a recording / reproducing apparatus for recording / reproducing data on / from a magneto-optical disk.

It is a basic diagram which shows the structure of the recording / reproducing apparatus by this Embodiment. It is the top view and conceptual diagram which show the structure and data format of a 1st next generation MD disc. It is the top view and conceptual diagram which show the structure and data format of a 2nd next generation MD disc. It is a conceptual diagram with which it uses for description of a structure of a cache memory. It is a conceptual diagram with which it uses for description of the write control of a cache memory. It is a conceptual diagram with which it uses for description of a data length management table. It is a conceptual diagram with which it uses for description of read-out control of cache memory. It is a conceptual diagram with which it uses for description of read priority control of a cache memory. It is a conceptual diagram with which it uses for description of the write control of the cache memory in the tight mode. It is a conceptual diagram with which it uses for description of the write control (2) of the cache memory at the time of tight mode. It is a conceptual diagram with which it uses for description of read-out control of the cache memory at the time of tight mode. It is a conceptual diagram with which it uses for description of read-out control (2) of the cache memory in tight mode. It is a flowchart which shows a write request response process sequence. It is a flowchart which shows a read request response process sequence.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Recording / reproducing apparatus, 2 ... Personal computer, 4 ... Disk, 11 ... Cache memory, 12 ... Storage part, 13 ... System controller, 16 ... Cache management memory, 19 ... Cache, 20 ... ... continuous data length management table, RT1 ... write request response processing procedure, RT2 ... read request response processing procedure.

Claims (11)

Temporary storage means for temporarily storing data, the data transmitted from an external device is recorded on a recording medium via the temporary storage means, or the data reproduced from the recording medium is stored on the temporary storage means In a recording / reproducing apparatus that transmits to the external device via
Recording / reproducing means for recording the data read from the temporary storage means on the recording medium or reading the data reproduced from the recording medium to the external device via the temporary storage means;
A control means for controlling the temporary storage means and / or the recording / reproducing means and responding to a write or read request from the external device,
The control means includes
When a write or read request is given from the external device, the free storage area in the temporary storage unit is detected, and when the free storage area is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, the free storage area in the temporary storage unit is secured. The temporary storage means and / or the recording / reproducing means are controlled so that a waiting time elapses in response to the write or read request set in advance in the external device in response to the write or read request from the external device. A recording / reproducing apparatus characterized by responding to the external device immediately before. The control means includes
The free storage area calculated based on the longest time when the recording medium becomes unusable and the waiting time for a response to a write or read request from the external device is used as a threshold value. The recording / reproducing apparatus as described. The control means includes
When a read request is given from the external device when the data to be recorded on the recording medium written from the external device is recorded on the recording medium and the free storage area is larger than a predetermined threshold value The recording of the data to be recorded on the recording medium is interrupted, the data to which the read request is given is reproduced from the recording medium, temporarily stored in the temporary storage means, and in response to the read request The recording / reproducing apparatus according to claim 1, which responds. The control means includes
When a read request is given from the external device, the continuity of the data to which the read request is given is detected, and when the continuous length of the data to which the read request is given exceeds a certain data length, it continues newly. The recording / reproducing means is controlled so that, when a data read request is given, the data longer than the data for which the read request is given by a predetermined data length is reproduced from the recording medium. Item 3. The recording / reproducing apparatus according to Item 2. The control means includes
5. The recording / reproducing means is controlled to reproduce data from the recording medium that is longer than the data to which the read request is given by a data length equal to or less than the calculated free storage area. The recording / reproducing apparatus as described. Temporary storage means for temporarily storing data, the data transmitted from an external device is recorded on a recording medium via the temporary storage means, or the data reproduced from the recording medium is stored via the temporary storage means In the recording / playback method for transmitting to the external device,
A first step of detecting a free storage area in the temporary storage means when a write or read request is given from the external device;
When the free storage area is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, the temporary storage means and / or the recording / reproducing means are controlled to secure a free storage area in the temporary storage means, and a write or read request from the external device And a second step of responding to the external device immediately before the response waiting time for the write or read request set in advance in the external device elapses. In the second step,
The free storage area calculated based on the longest time that the recording medium is unusable and the waiting time for a response to a write or read request from the external device is used as a threshold value. The recording / reproducing method described. In the second step,
When a read request is given from the external device when the data to be recorded on the recording medium written from the external device is recorded on the recording medium and the free storage area is larger than a predetermined threshold value The recording of the data to be recorded on the recording medium is interrupted, the data to which the read request is given is reproduced from the recording medium, temporarily stored in the temporary storage means, and in response to the read request The recording / reproducing method according to claim 6, wherein a response is made. In the second step,
When a read request is given from the external device, the continuity of the data to which the read request is given is detected, and when the continuous length of the data to which the read request is given exceeds a certain data length, it continues newly. 8. The recording / reproducing method according to claim 7, wherein when a data read request is given, data having a predetermined data length longer than the data for which the read request is given is reproduced from the recording medium. In the second step,
10. The recording / reproducing method according to claim 9, wherein data longer than the calculated free storage area by a data length less than the data to which the read request is given is reproduced from the recording medium. Temporary storage means for temporarily storing data, the data transmitted from an external device is recorded on a recording medium via the temporary storage means, or the data reproduced from the recording medium is stored via the temporary storage means In the recording / reproducing apparatus for transmitting to the external device
Recording / reproducing means for recording the data read from the temporary storage means on the recording medium or reading the data reproduced from the recording medium to the external device via the temporary storage means;
A control means for controlling the temporary storage means and / or the recording / reproducing means and responding to a write or read request from the external device,
The control means includes
When a read request is given from the external device, the continuity of the data to which the read request is given is detected, and when the continuous length of the data to which the read request is given exceeds a certain data length, it continues newly. The recording / reproducing means is controlled to reproduce data from the recording medium that is longer than the data for which the read request is given by a predetermined data length when the data read request is given. Playback device.

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