METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SIGNAL THRESHOLD ADJUSTMENT THAT COMPENSATES FOR SIGNAL ASYMMETRY

A method and apparatus for signal threshold adjustment that compensates for signal asymmetry which utilizes an algorithm to detect each side of an asymmetric signal independently to ensure that the proper signal detection point is used on both the high and low side of the asymmetric signal. In particular, the high side threshold is adjusted downwards a predetermined amount until detected, the high side threshold voltage is then recorded and reset to the maximum value. Correspondingly, the low side threshold is then adjusted upwards the predetermined amount until detected, the low side threshold voltage is then recorded and reset to the minimum value. The algorithm may be repeated to continuously monitor a signal. The gain of the read amplifier can then be accordingly adjusted by the controller such that it approximately equals the peak of the amplified reference burst to the predetermined value. The controller additionally utilizes the digital samples of the reference burst signal level for controlling the initial transverse position of the tape head assembly on the magnetic media.