Transient and steady state dynamic vibration measurements of HDD

Vibration diagnostics is based on the detection of change from a reference condition, which is generally defined through a reference characterization signature. In the present study, the reference characterizations have been obtained with the HDD operating in normal condition. Once the reference signatures are established under normal operating conditions, malfunctions on the HDD are imposed using a sharp scratch on the top surface of the top disk inside the drive and by exposing the HDD on multi-directional shocks. The vibration signatures are again measured, and it is found that vibration measurements can reliably detect malfunctioning HDD.