Filter assembly for a data storage device

A data storage device comprising:

• at least one disc rotationally coupled to a chassis and rotatable to provide an air flow;
• at least one head positionable proximate to the at least one disc to read or write data to the at least one disc;
• an assembly body defining a first flow passage having an inlet and an outlet and a first flow passage length extending between the inlet and the outlet, the inlet being adjacent the at least one disc;
• a filter disposed in the first flow passage;
• a second flow passage in the assembly body having an ambient exchange opening and an opening leading to an intermediate portion of the first flow passage between the inlet and the outlet;
• and
• a filter portion interposed between the ambient exchange opening and the opening leading to the intermediate portion of the first flow passage.

A method for filtering air in a data storage device comprising steps of:

• providing a flow passage having an inlet proximate to a high pressure region of a disc and an outlet spaced therefrom;
• providing an ambient air exchange opened to the flow passage;
• providing a filter in the flow passage;
• and
• rotating the disc to create the high pressure region to induce air flow through the flow passage and the ambient air exchange.

A disc drive comprising:

• at least one disc rotationally coupled to a chassis and rotatable to provide an air flow;
• at least one head proximate to the disc to read or write data to the at least one disc;
• and
• means for filtering the air flow.