JPH08249630A - Magnetic recording/reproducing device - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE: To allow using of a differential type magnetic head element and to facilitate mounting of a connector in magnetic recording-reproducing device having a multitrack type thin film head having 144 to 288 tracks or more. CONSTITUTION: Terminals 13-1,... 13-n of differential type MR elements 12-1,... 12-n of a multitrack type magnetic head 10 are connected to a group 14 of pads provided in one end of a flexible LSI device 16 and a connector 17 is connected to the other end of this device. The LSI device 16 is equipped with differential amplifier circuits 15-1,... 15-n of single-phase outputs which amplify reproduction signals from the MR elements 12-1,... 12-n discretely, on a flexible semiconductor base thereof. The total number of input terminals of the amplifier circuits 15-1,... 15-n is 2n, while the total number of output terminals thereof is (n).

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus, and more particularly to a magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus equipped with a multi-track type magnetic head element having a track number of 144 to 288 or more.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art As a conventional example of this type of magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus, FIG. 6 shows an example of a magnetic tape storage device having a multi-track type thin film magnetic head. FIG. 6 shows only a functional block diagram of the reproduction processing unit of the apparatus.

In FIG. 6, a reproducing processor 80 of this conventional magnetic tape storage device is for n tracks (n is an integer of 2 or more, for example 144), and n reproducing magnetic head elements 82 are provided. -1, 82-2, ..., 82- (n
-1), 82-n, and a reproduction signal processing unit 88 that receives reproduction signals from the magnetic head elements and performs predetermined processing.
, Magnetic head elements 82-1, 82-2, ..., 82
-(N-1), 82-n and the flexible printed cable 86 for connecting the reproduction signal processing unit 88, and the connector 8
7 and 7.

Magnetic head elements 82-1, 82-2, ...
, 82- (n-1), 82-n are magnetoresistive effects (M
(R) element, which is a differential type and is formed in parallel in a head gap provided in a substrate (not shown) of the reproducing magnetic head. These magnetic head elements 82-1, 82-2, ...
.., 82- (n-1), and 82-n are terminal pad groups 83-1, 83-2, ..., 83- for connection, respectively.
(N-1), 83-n, and are connected to the flexible printed cable 86 via the terminal pad group. Terminal pad groups 83-1, 83-2, ..., 83-
Each of (n-1) and 83-n is composed of two signal terminal pads and one common terminal (center tap) pad.

Terminal pad groups 83-1, 83-2, ...
, 83- (n-1), and 83-n are connected to the connection portion at one end of the flexible printing cable 86, and the connector 87 is connected to the connection portion at the other end of the printing cable 86. The connector 87 is connected to the input end of the reproduction signal processing unit 88.

The flexible printed cable 86 is a flexible base film such as a polyimide film having a wiring pattern formed of copper foil on one or both sides. The wiring pattern is the magnetic head elements 82-1 and 8-2.
2-2, ..., 82- (n-1), n from 82-n
Individual signals for each track (channel), that is, the terminal pad groups 83-1, 83-2, ..., 83- (n-
Each of 1) and 83-n can be independently sent to the reproduction signal processing unit 88.

The reproduced signal processing section 88 includes n differential amplifiers 85-1, 85-2, ...
, 85- (n-1), 85-n and their differential amplifiers 85-1, 85-2, ..., 85- (n-1), 85
A signal processing circuit system 90 which receives an output signal from -n and performs a predetermined process. The signal processing circuit system 90
It includes an equalization circuit and a discrimination circuit. The signal processing circuit system 90 is further connected to a host device (not shown) such as a control device provided outside the magnetic tape device.

Thus, the magnetic head elements 82-1 and 82
-2, ... 82- (n-1), n-number of reproduced signals generated for each track at 82-n are differentially amplified for each track, and further subjected to processing such as equalization and discrimination, Sent to the host device.

[0009]

In the conventional multi-track type magnetic tape storage device having the above structure, the number of pins of the connector 87 increases in proportion to the number of tracks (the number of channels). For example, in the case of 144 tracks, the magnetic head elements 82-1, 82-2, ..., 82- (n-1),
Since each 82-n has two signal terminals and one common terminal, 144 × 3 = 432 pins are required as they are.

Further, the magnetic head elements 82-1 and 82-
Even if the common terminals of 2, ..., 82- (n-1), 82-n are combined into one on the flexible printed cable 86, 144 × 2 + 1 = 289 pins are required.

As described above, in the above-mentioned conventional magnetic tape storage device, as the number of tracks increases, it becomes extremely difficult to perform the work of mounting the connector 87 on the flexible printing cable 86 with a defect rate of zero. There is. This problem becomes even more serious as the number of tracks increases.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus which does not make it difficult to mount a magnetic head connector as in the conventional case even if the number of tracks increases.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus in which the work of mounting the magnetic head connector is easier than in the conventional example.

Still another object of the present invention is to provide a magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus capable of using a differential type magnetic head element even if it is a multi-track type having more than 144 tracks. is there.

[0015]

[Means for Solving the Problems]

(1) A first magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus of the present invention comprises a multi-track type magnetic head having n (n is an integer of 2 or more) magnetic head elements, and an LSI circuit formed on a flexible substrate. And a signal processing means for processing a reproduction signal from the n magnetic head elements or a recording signal to the n magnetic head elements, wherein the reproduction signal or the recording signal is the LSI. It is configured to be sent between the n magnetic head elements and the signal processing means via an LSI circuit of the device, and the LSI circuit has the number of terminals on the signal processing means side on the magnetic head element side. The number of terminals is less than that of the circuit configuration.

(2) As long as the LSI circuit has a circuit configuration in which the number of terminals on the signal processing means side is smaller than the number of terminals on the magnetic head element side, any circuit can be used. It includes n differential amplifier circuits that amplify a dynamic input to generate a single-phase output, and n reproduced signals from the magnetic head element are differentially differentiated by the n differential amplifier circuits. It is preferable that the signal is amplified before being sent to the signal processing means.

Alternatively, the LSI circuit includes n amplifier circuits for amplifying a single-phase input to generate a differential output, and the n recording signals from the signal processing means are n pieces of the recording signals. It is preferable that the signals are separately amplified by an amplifier circuit and then sent to the magnetic head element.

In these cases, the number of terminals on the signal processing means side is approximately (1/2) of the number of terminals on the magnetic head element side.
become.

Preferably, the flexible LS
The I-device includes a signal selection unit that time-divisionally outputs a plurality of input signals sent from the plurality of magnetic head elements, and selectively outputs the output signals as one output signal.
A signal distribution unit that time-divisions one output signal of the signal selection unit and distributes it as a plurality of output signals is provided.

In this case, the number of terminals on the signal processing means side can be made smaller than (1/2) of the number of terminals on the magnetic head element side.

(3) Further, the LSI circuit time-divisionally outputs a plurality of input signals, and selectively outputs m signals (m is an integer of 1 or more, m <n). A selection circuit may be included, and the n reproduction signals from the magnetic head element may be time-divided by the m signal selection circuits before being sent to the signal processing means.

The LSI circuit also divides a single input signal into a plurality of output signals by time division (k is 1).
The above integers are included in the signal distribution circuit of k <n), and the k reproduced signals from the signal processing means are separately time-divided by the k signal distribution circuits before the n magnetic heads. It may be distributed to the elements.

In these cases, the number of terminals at the second end changes according to the number of time divisions of the input signal, and decreases as the number of time divisions increases.

(4) Further, the LSI circuit amplifies the differential input to generate a single-phase output, and n first differential amplifier circuits, and amplifies the differential input to generate a single-phase output. and n second differential amplifier circuits, wherein the first differential amplifier circuit and the second differential amplifier circuit are configured to selectively operate according to a switching signal, and The n reproduced signals are separately differentially amplified by the n first differential amplifier circuits and then sent to the signal processing means, and the n recording signals from the signal processing means are n recording signals. The signals may be separately amplified by the second amplifier circuit and then sent to the magnetic head element.

In this case, the effect of the present invention can be obtained even in the case of a so-called "recording / reproducing separated type magnetic head" in which the recording and reproducing magnetic head elements are separated.

(5) The LSI circuit includes n differential amplifier circuits that amplify a differential input to generate a single-phase output, and a plurality of input signals are time-divisionally selected as a single output signal. Output signal to k (k is an integer greater than or equal to 1 and k <n), and n reproduced signals from the magnetic head element are separately output by the n differential amplifier circuits. The signal may be dynamically amplified and then sent to each of the k signal selection circuits, time-divided by the signal selection circuits, and then sent to the signal processing means.

On the contrary, the LSI circuit includes n amplifier circuits for amplifying a single-phase input to generate a differential output and k amplifier circuits for time-sharing a single input signal and distributing it as a plurality of output signals. (K is an integer of 1 or more and k <n), and k recording signals from the signal processing means are distributed to the n amplifier circuits by the k signal distribution circuits. Alternatively, the signals may be separately amplified by the amplifier circuits and then sent to the magnetic head element.

In this case, the number of terminals on the signal processing means side can be further reduced.

(6) Let N be the number of input signals to each of the signal selection circuits that selectively outputs a plurality of input signals as a single output signal by time division, and set the maximum frequency of these input signals to Fs. In this case, it is preferable that the time division frequency F of the signal selection circuit satisfies the relationship of F> 2 · Fs · N.

Similarly, the number of output signals to each of the signal distribution circuits that time-divides a single input signal and distributes it as a plurality of output signals is N ', and the maximum frequency of these output signals is Fs'. In this case, it is preferable that the time division frequency F ′ of the signal selection circuit satisfies the relationship of F ′> 2 · Fs ′ · N ′.

In this way, signal distortion can be further reduced.

(7) The signal selection circuit is preferably an analog multiplexer, and the signal distribution circuit is preferably an analog demultiplexer.

(8) A second magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus of the present invention is a multi-track type magnetic head having n (n is an integer of 2 or more) magnetic head elements and n terminals of the magnetic head elements. A flexible LSI device having an LSI circuit formed on a flexible substrate, one end of which is connected to
A connector connected to the other end of the flexible LSI device, and a signal is sent between the magnetic head element and the connector via an LSI circuit of the LSI device,
Further, the LSI circuit has a circuit configuration in which the number of terminals on the connector side is smaller than the number of terminals on the magnetic head element side.

Also in this second magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus,
Each modification described in (2) to (7) above is possible.

(9) In the first and second magnetic recording / reproducing apparatuses, the magnetic head element is composed of a magnetoresistive effect element, and the signal processing circuit system processes a reproduction signal sent from the magnetic head element. It is preferable that the LSI device includes a reproduction signal amplification circuit. This is because the effect of the present invention is more remarkable in this case.

(10) The present invention is preferably applied to a multi-track type magnetic tape storage device, but is not limited to this, and can be applied to other magnetic recording / reproducing devices.

[0037]

In the first and second magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus of the present invention, the n magnetic head elements are connected to the signal processing circuit system or the connector through the flexible LSI device having the LSI circuit, and The LSI circuit has a circuit configuration in which the number of terminals on the signal processing circuit system side or the connector side is smaller than the number of terminals on the magnetic head element side. Therefore, the flexible LSI device has not only the same signal transmission function as the conventional flexible printed cable, but also the action of reducing the number of terminals on the signal processing circuit system or the connector side.

Therefore, since the number of terminals on the signal processing circuit system or the connector side is always smaller than the number of tracks of the magnetic head element, it becomes difficult to mount the connector as in the conventional case even if the number of tracks is increased. There is no.

Further, since the number of pins of the connector is always smaller than the number of tracks, the work of mounting the magnetic head connector is easier than the conventional example.

Furthermore, for example, by providing the flexible LSI device with a signal selection means such as a differential amplifier circuit for amplifying a differential input to generate a single-phase output, a multiplexer or the like, the signal processing means or the terminal on the connector side is provided. The number can be reduced to (1/2) the number of tracks or less. Therefore, it is possible to use the differential type magnetic head element even in the multi-track type having more than 144 tracks.

[0041]

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of the present invention; [First Embodiment] FIGS. 1 and 2 show a multitrack magnetic tape storage device according to a first embodiment of the magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a schematic external view showing the structure of a reproducing magnetic head of this magnetic tape storage device and its vicinity,
FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram thereof.

In FIGS. 1 and 2, the reproduction processing unit 10 of this magnetic tape storage device is for n tracks (n is an integer of 2 or more, for example, 144), and n reproduction magnetic head elements are used. 12-1, 12-2, ..., 12-
(N-1), 12-n and their magnetic head elements 12-
1, 12-2, ..., 12- (n-1), 12-n, and the reproduction signal processing unit 18 for performing a predetermined process and the magnetic head elements 12-1, 12-2. , ...
.., 12- (n-1), 12-n and the reproduction signal processing unit 18
A flexible LSI device 16 and a connector 17 for connecting to each other are provided.

Magnetic head elements 12-1, 12-2, ...
., 12- (n-1), 12-n are magnetoresistive effects (M
(R) element is a differential type and is formed in parallel in the head gap provided in the ferrite base 11 of the reproducing magnetic head. These magnetic head elements 12-1, 12-2,
, 12- (n-1), 12-n have terminals 13-1, 13-2, ..., 13-n for connection, respectively. The base 11 also serves as a magnetic shield.

The flexible LSI device 16 includes magnetic head elements 12-1, 12-2, ..., 12- (n-
1) and 12-n side end portions have terminal pad groups 14 corresponding to them. Flexible LSI device 16
Corresponds to the terminals 13-1, 13- corresponding to the terminal pad group 14.
, ..., 13-n by thermocompression bonding to the magnetic head elements 12-1, 12-2 ,.
-(N-1), 12-n.

Magnetic head elements 12-1, 12-2, ...
, 12- (n-1), 12-n are differential type having a center tap, and therefore their terminals 13-1, 13
Each of -2, ..., 13-n includes two signal input terminals and one common terminal (center tap). Magnetic head elements 12-1, 12-2, ..., 1
The common terminals 2- (n-1) and 12-n are commonly connected in the flexible LSI device 16, and the reproduction signal processing unit 18
It is grounded inside.

As shown in FIG. 2, the flexible LSI device 16 has n differential amplifier circuits 15-1, 15-2, ..., 15- for amplifying a differential input and generating a single-phase output.
(N-1) and 15-n. The differential amplifier circuits 15-1, 15-2, ..., 15- (n-1), 1
The differential input terminal of 5-n corresponds to the corresponding magnetic head element 12-
, 12- (n-1), 12-n are connected to the signal input terminals, respectively. Magnetic head elements 12-1, 12-2, ..., 12- (n-1), 12
The reproduced signal sent from -n is the corresponding differential amplifier circuit 1
5-1, 15-2, ..., 15- (n-1), 15-
It is differentially amplified by n and is output as connector 17 as n single-phase outputs.
Sent to

Therefore, the input side of the flexible LSI device 16, that is, the magnetic head elements 12-1, 12-2, ...
., 12- (n-1), 12-n side, the terminal is (3 ×
While there are n) terminals, the number of terminals is reduced to (n + 1) on the output side of the flexible LSI device 16, that is, the connector 17 side.

For example, in the case of 144 tracks (n = 144), the number of terminals on the input side of the flexible LSI device 16 is
144 × 3 = 432 whereas flexible L
The number of terminals on the output side of the SI device 16 is 144 + 1 = 145.
The number has decreased significantly (about 1/3). This value is a half of the value of 289 in the conventional example.

In this case, the connector 17 may have 145 pins. For example, 150 pins are used, and 145 pins of the 150 pins are connected to 144 output terminals of the differential amplifier circuit and one commonly connected common terminal.

The reproduction signal processing section 18 is provided with a signal processing circuit system 20 for performing a predetermined processing on the reproduction signal.
The signal processing circuit system 20 includes an equalization circuit and a discrimination circuit. The reproduction signal processing unit 18 receives the differential amplifier circuits 15-1, 15-2, ..., 15- (n-
1) and 15-n are connected to the single-phase output terminals, the differential amplifier circuits 15-1, 15-2, ..., 15- (n-
1), n reproduction signals differentially amplified by 15-n are separately sent to the reproduction signal processing unit 18, where signal equalization,
After performing a predetermined process such as discrimination, the data is sent to a host device (not shown) outside the magnetic tape storage device.

The flexible LSI device 16 is one in which an LSI circuit is formed on a flexible semiconductor substrate, and can be realized by the structure disclosed in, for example, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 5-190678. The semiconductor integrated circuit device disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 5-190678 has a dividing groove formed on the front surface or the back surface of a semiconductor substrate such as silicon in which a plurality of macro cells are spread and arranged, and both of the grooves. It has an inorganic material embedded inside. By doing so, it becomes possible to selectively take out a defective macro cell generated during the manufacturing process of the semiconductor integrated circuit device and replace it with a good macro cell.

Therefore, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 5-190678, a groove is formed on one or both sides of a thin semiconductor substrate so that the semiconductor substrate has flexibility. become.

The flexible LSI device 16 used in the present invention has differential amplifier circuits 15-1, 15-2, ..., 15- on a flexible semiconductor substrate having such a structure.
(N-1), 15-n and their differential amplifier circuits 15-
., 15- (n-1), 15-n, and a wiring pattern for connecting the terminal pad group 14 and the pins of the connector 17 are formed.

The LSI circuit formed on the flexible LSI device 16 is not limited to the differential amplifier circuit, and any other circuit can be used depending on the desired function.

FIG. 5 shows the structure of the magnetic head portion of the magnetic tape storage device of the first embodiment. The magnetic head unit includes the reproduction processing unit 10 having the above-described configuration and the recording processing unit 70 having substantially the same configuration as the reproduction processing unit 10. Both of the processing units 10 and 70 are as shown in FIG. It has become one.

In FIG. 5, reference numeral 71 is a ferrite substrate,
72-1, ..., 72-n are recording magnetic head elements consisting of a thin film, 19 is a reproducing magnetic head element 12-1 ,.
.., 12-n, and 79 is a protective film that covers the recording magnetic head elements 72-1, ..., 72-n.
The two bases 11 and 71 are joined via the protective films 19 and 79.
It is integrated.

In the multi-track type magnetic tape storage device of the first embodiment having the above construction, the n reproducing magnetic head elements 12-1, 12-2, ..., 12-n are n
The differential amplifier circuits 15-1, 15-2, ..., 15-
It is connected to the signal processing circuit system 20 via a flexible LSI device 16 having n and a connector 17. Further, the differential amplifier circuits 15-1, 15-2, ..., 15-
Since n receives a differential input and generates a single-phase output, the number of terminals on the magnetic head elements 12-1, 12-2, ..., 12-n side is 3n, and the number of terminals on the connector 17 side is (n + 1). Has been reduced to.

Therefore, the flexible LSI device 16
Has not only the same signal transmission function as the conventional flexible printed cable, but also the effect of reducing the number of terminals on the connector 17 side.

Therefore, the number of terminals on the side of the connector 17 is significantly smaller than the number of terminals (ie, the number of tracks) on the side of the magnetic head elements 12-1, 12-2, ..., 12-n. Conventional connector 1
The mounting work of No. 7 does not become difficult.

Further, the number of pins of the connector 17 is the terminal 1 of the magnetic head elements 12-1, 12-2, ..., 12-n.
Since the number is always smaller than the number of 3-1, 13-2, ..., 13-n, the mounting work of the magnetic head connector is easier than the conventional example.

Further, since the number of terminals on the connector 17 side can be reduced to (1/2) or less of the number of tracks, even if the number of tracks n exceeds 144, even if it is a multi-track type, it is a differential type. It becomes possible to use a magnetic head element.

[Second Embodiment] FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram showing a multi-track magnetic tape storage device according to a second embodiment of the magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus of the present invention.

The reproducing processing unit 30 of the magnetic tape storage device of the second embodiment has n reproducing magnetic head elements 12-1, 12-2, ..., 12- (n) similar to those of the first embodiment. −
1), 12-n and the magnetic head elements 12-1, 1
2-2, ..., 12- (n-1), a reproduction signal processing unit 38 that receives reproduction signals from 12-n and performs predetermined processing.
, Magnetic head elements 12-1, 12-2, ..., 12
The flexible LSI device 36 and the connector 37 that connect the-(n-1), 12-n and the reproduction signal processing unit 38 are provided.

The terminal pad group of the flexible LSI device 36 corresponds to the corresponding magnetic head elements 12-1, 12-2, ..., 12- (n-1), 1 as in the first embodiment.
It is connected to 2-n. In addition, the magnetic head element 12-
Common terminals of 1, 12-2, ..., 12- (n-1), 12-n are commonly connected in the flexible LSI device 36 and grounded in the reproduction signal processing unit 38.

As shown in FIG. 3, the flexible LSI device 36 includes n differential amplifier circuits 15 similar to those of the first embodiment.
-1, 15-2, ..., 15- (n-1), 15-n
In addition, m (m = n / 2) analog multiplexers 31-1, ..., 31-m are provided. n differential amplifier circuits 15-1, 15-2, ..., 15- (n
-1), two adjacent single-phase output terminals of 15-n correspond to the corresponding m analog multiplexers 31-
, ..., 31-m are connected to the input terminals. Magnetic head elements 12-1, 12-2, ..., 12- (n-
The reproduced signals sent from 1) and 12-n are the corresponding n differential amplifier circuits 15-1, 15-2, ..., 15-.
After being differentially amplified by (n-1) and 15-n, analog
, 31-m are time-divided and sent to the connector 37 as m (= n / 2) single-phase outputs.

Therefore, the input side of the flexible LSI device 36, that is, the magnetic head elements 12-1, 12-2, ...
., 12- (n-1), 12-n side, the terminal is (3 ×
On the output side of the flexible LSI device 36, that is, on the connector 37 side, the number of terminals is [(n / 2)
It has decreased to + 1 + 1]. Note that one of the two terminals other than (n / 2) has one of the magnetic head elements 12-1 and 12-.
, ..., 12- (n-1), 12-n common terminals, and the other is for a timing control signal described later.

For example, in the case of 144 tracks (n = 144), the number of terminals on the input side of the flexible LSI device 36 is
144 × 3 = 432 whereas flexible L
The number of terminals on the output side of the SI device 36 is (144/2) +1.
The number is greatly reduced (about 1/6) to + 1 = 74. This value is a half of the value of 145 in the first embodiment.

In this case, the connector 17 may have 80 pins. For example, an 80-pin one is used, and 74 of these 80 pins are connected to 72 output terminals of the analog multiplexers 31-1, ..., 31-m and one commonly connected common terminal. , Connect to the timing control signal terminal.

The reproduction signal processing unit 38 is provided with m analog demultiplexers 32-1, ..., 32-m in addition to the signal processing circuit system 40 having the same function as in the first embodiment. There is. The reproduction signal processing unit 38 receives the analog multiplexers 31-1, ..., 31 via the connector 37.
-M is connected to the output end of the differential amplifier circuit 15-
, 15-2, ..., 15- (n-1), and 15-n differentially amplified reproduction signals are reproduced by the analog multiplexers 31-1 ,. After being divided, the analog demultiplexers 32-1, ..., 32
-M in sequence, and then again time-divided and distributed to the n input terminals of the reproduction signal processing unit 38, and restored as n reproduction signals. In the reproduction signal processing unit 38, signal equalization,
After performing a predetermined process such as discrimination, the reproduced signals are sent to a host device (not shown) outside the magnetic tape storage device.

M analog multiplexers 31-
, 31-m and m analog demultiplexers 32-1, ..., 32-m operate in synchronization with the same timing control signal. This timing control signal is generated by the timing control signal generation circuit 33 provided in the reproduction signal processing unit 38, and all the analog multiplexers 31-1, ..., 31-m and the analog demultiplexer 32-1 ,. .., 32-m.

In the multi-track type magnetic tape storage device of the second embodiment having the above configuration, the n reproducing magnetic head elements 12-1, 12-2, ..., 12-n are n
The differential amplifier circuits 15-1, 15-2, ..., 15-
n and m analog multiplexers 31-1, ...
.., flexible LSI device 36 having 31-m,
Connector 37 and m analog demultiplexers 3
Signal processing circuit system 40 via 2-1, ..., 32-m
It is connected to the. In addition, the magnetic head elements 12-1 and 1
2-2, ..., 12-n side terminal number 3n is connector 3
The number of terminals on the 7 side is reduced to [(n / 2) +2].

Therefore, the flexible LSI device 36
Has not only the same signal transmission function as the conventional flexible printed cable, but also the effect of reducing the number of terminals on the connector 37 side.

Therefore, the number of terminals on the connector 37 side is significantly smaller than the number of terminals (ie, the number of tracks) on the magnetic head elements 12-1, 12-2, ..., 12-n side. Even if the number increases, the connector 3 will be
The mounting work of No. 7 does not become difficult. Since the number of pins of the second embodiment is smaller than that of the first embodiment, the margin for the difficulty of mounting work is larger than that of the first embodiment.

Further, since the number of pins of the connector 37 is greatly reduced, its mounting work becomes easier than in the first embodiment. Further, even if the number of tracks n is more than 144, the differential type magnetic head element can be used.

In the second embodiment, the analog multiplexer 31-1, provided in the flexible LSI device 36, ...
.., and the number of input channels of 31-m is N, the number of pins of the connector can be (1 / N),
It is suitable for a multi-track magnetic tape recording device having more than 144 tracks.

In order to reduce the distortion of the reproduced signal, it is desirable that the frequency F of the timing control signal be as high as possible. For that purpose, assuming that the maximum frequency of the reproduced signal is Fs, from the sampling theorem, F> 2 · F
It is necessary to satisfy the relationship of s · N.

For example, as in the second embodiment, analog
When the number of input channels of the multiplexers 31-1, ..., 31-m is 2, Fs is usually 1 to 2 MHz, so that the frequency of the timing control signal is preferably 64 MHz.

[Third Embodiment] FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram showing a multi-track magnetic tape storage device according to a third embodiment of the magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus of the present invention.

The first and second embodiments are so-called "recording / reproducing separated type" in which the recording and reproducing magnetic head elements are separated, but the magnetic tape storage device of the third embodiment has a reproducing signal processing section. "Recording / reproduction integrated type" in which the recording signal processing unit and
Is.

Recording / playback processing unit 5 of the magnetic tape storage device
0 is n recording / reproducing magnetic head elements 52-1, 5
2-2, ..., 52- (n-1), 52-n and their magnetic head elements 52-1, 52-2 ,.
(N-1), 52-n, a reproduction signal processing unit (not shown) for performing a predetermined process upon reception of the reproduction signal R, and the magnetic head elements 52-1, 52-2, ..., 52. -(N
-1), 52-n, and a recording signal processing unit (not shown) that performs a predetermined process on the recording signal W and magnetic head elements 52-1, 52-2, ..., 52- (n-1). ), 5
The flexible LSI device 56 and the connector 57 for connecting the 2-n and the recording / reproducing signal processing unit are provided.

Magnetic head elements 52-1, 52-2, ...
, 52- (n-1) and 52-n are differential types capable of recording and reproducing and are formed in parallel in a head gap provided in a ferrite substrate (not shown). These magnetic head elements 52-1, 52-2, ..., 52- (n-
1) and 52-n have the same connection terminals as in the first embodiment.

The flexible LSI device 56 includes magnetic head elements 52-1, 52-2, ..., 52- (n-
1) and 52-n have terminal pad groups corresponding to the end portions on the 52-n side. The flexible LSI device 56 thermocompression-bonds the terminal pad groups to the corresponding terminals, respectively, to thereby form the magnetic head elements 52-1 and 52-2 ,.
, 52- (n-1), 52-n.

Magnetic head elements 52-1, 52-2, ...
, 52- (n-1), 52-n are commonly connected in the flexible LSI device 56 and grounded in the recording / reproducing signal processing unit.

As shown in FIG. 4, the flexible LSI device 56 includes n reproducing differential amplifier circuits 55-1 and 55.
, -55- (n-1), 55-n, and n recording amplifier circuits 65-1, 65-2, ..., 65-
(N-1) and 65-n. Differential amplifier circuits for reproduction 55-1, 55-2, ..., 55- (n-
1) and 55-n amplify a differential input and generate a single-phase output, as in the first embodiment. Unlike this, recording amplifier circuits 65-1, 65-2, ..., 65- (n-
1) and 65-n amplify a single-phase input and generate a differential output.

Differential amplifier circuits 55-1, 55-2, ...
, 55- (n-1), 55-n have differential input terminals corresponding to the magnetic head elements 52-1, 52-2, ..., 52.
-(N-1) and 52-n signal input terminals, respectively. Magnetic head elements 52-1, 52-2, ...
., 52- (n-1), 52-n are reproduced signals corresponding to the differential amplifier circuits 55-1, 55-2 ,.
, 55- (n-1) and 55-n are differentially amplified and sent to the connector 57 as n single-phase outputs. These n reproduced signals R are sent to a reproduced signal processing circuit system (not shown) in the same manner as in the case of the first embodiment and subjected to predetermined processing.

Amplifier circuits 65-1, 65-2, ..., 6
The n single-phase input terminals 5- (n-1) and 65-n are respectively connected to the corresponding output terminals of the recording signal processing circuit system (not shown). Magnetic head elements 62-1 and 62-2,
, 62- (n-1), 62-n, the recording signal W sent to the corresponding amplifier circuits 65-1, 65-2,
..., 65- (n-1), 65-n, and the corresponding magnetic head elements 52-1 and 5-2 are output as n differential outputs.
2-2, ..., 52- (n-1), 52-n and recorded on a magnetic tape (not shown).

The recording / reproducing signal processing section is provided with a recording / reproducing switching signal generating circuit 53, and the recording / reproducing switching signal generated by the circuit 53 is transmitted via the connector 57 to the differential amplifier circuit 55-1. , 55-2, ..., 55-
(N-1), 55-n and amplifier circuits 65-1, 65-
2, ..., 65- (n-1), 65-n, respectively. In accordance with the recording / reproduction switching signal, the differential amplifier circuits 55-1, 55-2, ..., 55- (n
-1) and 55-n only operate, and the amplifier circuit 6 is used during recording.
5-1, 65-2, ..., 65- (n-1), 65-
Only n works.

The input side of the flexible LSI device 56, that is, the magnetic head elements 52-1, 52-2, ..., 52.
On the − (n−1), 52-n side, there are (3 × n) terminals, but on the output side of the flexible LSI device 56, that is, on the connector 57 side, the number of terminals is reduced to (n + 1 + 1). . Note that one of the two terminals other than n has one of the magnetic head elements 52-1, 52-2, ..., 52- (n-
1) and 52-n common terminal, and the other is for recording / reproduction switching signal.

For example, in the case of 144 tracks (n = 144), the number of terminals on the input side of the flexible LSI device 56 is
144 × 3 = 432 whereas flexible L
The number of terminals on the output side of the SI device 56 is 144 + 1 + 1 = 1
The number has dropped to 46 (about 1/3). This value is
This is almost the same as in the case of the first embodiment (145 pieces), but in the third embodiment, the magnetic head element 5 having the same recording / reproducing is used.
2-1, 52-2, ..., 52- (n-1), 52-
Since it is performed at n, the magnetic tape storage device as a whole has about half the size of the first embodiment, which is comparable to the second embodiment.

Also in the multi-track type magnetic tape storage device of the third embodiment having the above configuration, the same effect as that of the first embodiment can be obtained.

[0091]

According to the magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus of the present invention,
Even if the number of tracks increases, the mounting work of the magnetic head connector does not become difficult unlike the conventional case. Further, the mounting work of the magnetic head connector is easier than the conventional example. Further, even if the multi-track type having more than 144 tracks is used, the differential type magnetic head element can be used.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a magnetic head portion of a magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of a magnetic head portion of the magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus of the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram of a magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram of a magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a schematic front view of the entire magnetic head of the magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus of the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram of a conventional magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus.

[Explanation of symbols]

10 Reproduction Processing Section of Magnetic Tape Storage Device 11 Base Body of Magnetic Head 12-1, 12-2, ..., 12- (n-1), 12
-N magnetic head element 13-1, 13-2, ..., 13-n terminal 14 terminal pad group 15-1, 15-2, ..., 15- (n-1), 15
-N differential amplifier circuit 16 flexible LSI device 17 connector 18 reproduction signal processing unit 20 signal processing circuit system 30 reproduction processing unit of magnetic tape storage device 31 base body of magnetic head 31-1, ..., 31-m analog multiplexer 32-1, ..., 32-m analog demultiplexer 33 timing control signal generation circuit 36 flexible LSI device 37 connector 38 reproduction signal processing unit 40 signal processing circuit system 50 reproduction processing unit of magnetic tape storage device 51 of magnetic head Base bodies 52-1, 52-2, ..., 52- (n-1), 52
-N magnetic head element 55-1, 55-2, ..., 55- (n-1), 55
-N differential amplification circuit 53 recording / reproduction switching signal generation circuit 56 flexible LSI device 57 connector 65-1, 65-2, ..., 65- (n-1), 65
-N amplifier circuit

Claims (24)

[Claims] 1. A multi-track magnetic head having n (n is an integer of 2 or more) magnetic head elements, a flexible LSI device formed by forming an LSI circuit on a flexible substrate, and n Signal processing means for processing a reproduction signal from the magnetic head element or a recording signal to the n magnetic head elements, wherein the reproduction signal or the recording signal is an LS of the LSI device.
It is configured to be sent between n magnetic head elements and the signal processing means via an I circuit. Further, in the LSI circuit, the number of terminals on the signal processing means side is the terminals on the magnetic head element side. A magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus having a circuit configuration that is less than the number. 2. The LSI circuit includes n differential amplifier circuits for amplifying a differential input to generate a single-phase output,
2. The magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein n reproduced signals from the magnetic head element are separately differentially amplified by the n differential amplifier circuits and then sent to the signal processing means. 3. The LSI circuit includes n amplifier circuits for amplifying a single-phase input to generate a differential output, and the n recording signals from the signal processing means are n pieces of the recording signals. The magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus is separately amplified by an amplifier circuit and then sent to the magnetic head element. 4. The m number of signal selection circuits (m is an integer of 1 or more, m <n) in which the LSI circuit time-divisionally outputs a plurality of input signals and selectively outputs them as a single output signal. 2. The magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein n reproduction signals from the magnetic head element are sent to the signal processing means after being time-divided by the m signal selection circuits. 5. The LSI circuit includes k (k is an integer of 1 or more, k <n) signal distribution circuits that time-divide a single input signal and distribute as a plurality of output signals. 2. The magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein k reproduction signals from the signal processing means are separately time-divided by the k signal distribution circuits and then distributed to the n magnetic head elements. 6. The LSI circuit includes n first differential amplifier circuits that amplify differential inputs to generate single-phase outputs, and n first differential amplifier circuits that amplify differential inputs to generate single-phase outputs. A second differential amplifier circuit, the first differential amplifier circuit and the second differential amplifier circuit
The differential amplifier circuit is configured to selectively operate according to a switching signal, and the n reproduced signals from the magnetic head element are separately differentially amplified by the n first differential amplifier circuits. 2. The recording head according to claim 1, wherein the recording signals are sent from the signal processing means to the magnetic head element, and the n recording signals from the signal processing means are separately amplified by the n second amplifying circuits. Magnetic recording / reproducing device. 7. The n-th differential amplifier circuit for amplifying a differential input to generate a single-phase output, and the plurality of input signals are time-divisionally selectively selected as a single output signal by the LSI circuit. Outputting k (k is an integer of 1 or more, k <n) signal selecting circuits, and n reproducing signals from the magnetic head element are
After being differentially amplified individually by the n number of differential amplifier circuits, k
The magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus is sent to each of the signal selecting circuits, time-divisionally performed by the signal selecting circuits, and then sent to the signal processing means. 8. The n-th amplifier circuit for amplifying a single-phase input to generate a differential output, and the k-th circuit for dividing a single input signal into a plurality of output signals by time-sharing the single input signal. k is an integer greater than or equal to 1 and includes a signal distribution circuit of k <n), and the k recording signals from the signal processing means are distributed to the n amplification circuits by the k signal distribution circuits, The magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus is separately amplified by the amplifier circuits and then sent to the magnetic head element. 9. The number of input signals to each of the signal selection circuits that time-divisionally outputs a plurality of input signals as a single output signal is N, and the maximum frequency of these input signals is Fs. The magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus according to claim 4 or 7, wherein the time division frequency F of the signal selection circuit satisfies the relationship of F> 2 · Fs · N. 10. The number of output signals to each of the signal distribution circuits for time-divisionally distributing a single input signal as a plurality of output signals is N ′, and the maximum frequency of these output signals is Fs ′. 9. The magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the frequency division frequency F ′ of the signal selection circuit satisfies the relation F ′> 2 · Fs ′ · N ′. 11. The magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the signal selection circuit is an analog multiplexer. 12. The magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the signal distribution circuit is an analog demultiplexer. 13. A multi-track type magnetic head having n (n is an integer of 2 or more) magnetic head elements, and one end of which is connected to terminals of the n magnetic head elements.
The magnetic head includes a flexible LSI device formed by forming an LSI circuit on a flexible substrate, and a connector connected to the other end of the flexible LSI device. Signals are transmitted via the LSI circuit of the LSI device to the magnetic head. The magnetic recording / reproducing is characterized in that the LSI circuit has a circuit configuration in which the number of terminals on the connector side is smaller than the number of terminals on the magnetic head element side. apparatus. 14. The LSI circuit includes n differential amplifier circuits that amplify a differential input to generate a single-phase output, and n reproduced signals from the magnetic head element are n reproduced signals. 14. The magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus is separately differentially amplified by the differential amplifier circuit and then sent to the connector. 15. The LSI circuit includes n amplifier circuits that amplify a single-phase input to generate a differential output, and the n recording signals sent through the connector are n recording signals. The magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus is separately amplified by the amplifier circuit and then sent to the magnetic head element. 16. The m-th signal selection circuit (m is an integer of 1 or more, m <n) in which the LSI circuit selectively outputs a plurality of input signals as a single output signal by time division. 14. The magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus according to claim 13, wherein n reproducing signals from said magnetic head element are sent to said connector after being time-divided by m signal selecting circuits. 17. The LSI circuit time-divisionally divides a single input signal into a plurality of output signals (k is 1).
The above-mentioned integer, including k <n) signal distribution circuits, the k reproduction signals sent via the connector are time-divided separately by the k signal distribution circuits, and then the n magnetic signals are reproduced. The magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus is distributed to the head elements. 18. The n-th first differential amplifier circuit for amplifying a differential input to generate a single-phase output, and the n-th LSI circuit for amplifying a differential input to generate a single-phase output. A second differential amplifier circuit, wherein the first differential amplifier circuit and the second differential amplifier circuit are configured to selectively operate in response to a switching signal, The reproduced signal is differentially amplified separately by the n first differential amplifier circuits and then sent to the connector, and then sent through the connector.
14. The magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the individual recording signals are separately amplified by the n second amplifying circuits and then sent to the magnetic head element. 19. The n-th differential amplifier circuit, wherein the LSI circuit amplifies a differential input to generate a single-phase output, and a plurality of input signals are time-divisionally selectively selected as a single output signal. It includes k (k is an integer greater than or equal to 1 and k <n) signal selection circuits to output, and n reproduced signals from the magnetic head element are differentially differentiated by the n differential amplifier circuits. 14. The magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the signal is amplified and then sent to each of the k signal selection circuits, time-divided by the signal selection circuits and then sent to the connector. 20. The LSI circuit comprises n amplifier circuits for amplifying a single-phase input to generate a differential output, and k amplifier circuits for time-sharing a single input signal and distributing it as a plurality of output signals. k
Is an integer greater than or equal to 1 and includes a signal distribution circuit of k <n), and k recording signals sent via the connector are distributed to the n amplification circuits by the k signal distribution circuits, 14. The magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus is separately amplified by the amplifier circuits and then sent to the magnetic head element. 21. The number of input signals to each of the signal selection circuits that time-divisionally outputs a plurality of input signals as a single output signal is N, and the maximum frequency of the input signals is Fs. 20. The magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the time-division frequency F of the signal selection circuit satisfies the relationship of F> 2 · Fs · N. 22. The number of output signals to each of the signal distribution circuits for time-divisionally distributing a single input signal as a plurality of output signals is N ', and the maximum frequency of these output signals is Fs'. 21. The magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the time division frequency F of the signal selection circuit satisfies the relationship of F '>2.Fs'.N'. 23. The magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the signal selection circuit is an analog multiplexer. 24. The magnetic recording / reproducing apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the signal distribution circuit is an analog demultiplexer.