Data storage device and method for storing information using alternate information storage architectures

Abstract

A data storage device having a fixed device architecture capable of operating in a first capacity mode or in a second capacity mode, and capable of switching between that first capacity mode and that second capacity mode. In certain embodiments, the first capacity mode utilizes a 22 bit blockid format and the second capacity mode utilizes a 32 bit blockid format. In other embodiments, the first capacity mode utilizes a 32 bit blockid format and the second capacity mode utilizes a 22 bit blockid format. A data storage device comprising a computer useable medium having computer readable program code disposed therein for recording information in alternative information storage architectures. A data storage and retrieval system which includes one or more of Applicants' data storage devices. A computer code product comprising a data management system which supports the capability to record information on a data storage medium using alternative information storage architectures.