Head velocity derating for data storage devices including disk media

A method of operating a Data Storage Device (DSD), the method comprising:

• receiving a command to read or write data on a disk of the DSD;
• determining a velocity derating setting for moving at least one head of the DSD in an Inner Diameter (ID) to Outer Diameter (OD) direction across the disk to a target location in an OD region of the disk for performing the command, wherein the velocity derating setting is determined based at least in part on a starting position for moving the at least one head being at least as radially far from an OD region position as a predetermined threshold;
• and
• moving the at least one head to the target location based on the determined velocity derating setting to perform the command, wherein the velocity derating setting serves as a precautionary measure against damaging the at least one head during an Emergency Power Off (EPO) state of the DSD.

A Data Storage Device (DSD), comprising:

• a disk configured to store data;
• a spindle motor configured to rotate the disk;
• at least one head configured to read and write data on the disk;
• a Voice Coil Motor (VCM) configured to move the at least one head over the disk;
• and
• means for:
• reducing an upper velocity limit for moving the at least one head to perform a command to read or write data at a target location on the disk, wherein the reduction of the upper velocity limit serves as a precautionary measure against damaging the at least one head during an Emergency Power Off (EPO) state of the DSD;
• and
• wherein the upper velocity limit is reduced in response to the target location being in an Outer Diameter (OD) region of the disk, a direction needed to move the at least one head to perform the command being in an Inner Diameter (ID) to OD direction across the disk, and a starting position for moving the at least one head being at least as radially far from an OD region position as a predetermined threshold.