SCSI LVD Drive - needs a special controller card?

[Lark888]

I have an older IBM 4Gig 7200rpm SCSI drive - the IBM web site says that it is a LVD drive. Do I need a special controller card or cables to use this drive? It has a 68pin connector. I have access to an Adaptec 2940U2W controller - would that one work?

Sorry for what may be a basic question, I've tried a number of Web sites without figuring this one out. I'm only basic SCSI competent

Thanks, Lark

 

[pen^2]

i am no scsi expert but yeah i could tell you that much. what you need is a U2W scsi host adapter and a lvd rated 68pin cable. Adaptec 2940U2W will do just fine as far as the controller goes

 

[Cyph3r]

Indeed..your U2W is fine..that's the card I've got right now. All you'll need is LVD cable. It is different from regular 68-pin SCSI cables. So be sure to buy the right kind. Many websites have this cable, so that's not a problem..Regards

 

[Lark888]

Thank you for the help. Lark

 

[xyyz]

I thought you did need a special card?

I know the Adaptec made a 2944 that was a differential controller.

So this means, I simply need to buy a cable and I can run my LVD Segate Baracuda off of my 3940UW?

 

[Lark888]

Are the standard cables that come with the 2940U2W retail kit acceptable? That's what have been used. Not sure how to tell if the cable is LVD. Adaptec has some LVD cables but the cost is high (well, high to me). Lark

 

[zoiman]

As stated you need a lvd card. the 2940u2w is. the cable is different and it must have its own terminator. recheck the drive as the ibm's are offered in both lvd and se. to check in real life, use hd tach and the burst speed should be appreciably over 40 if it is lvd mode. if under, it probably is operating in se mode regardless of the hookup or bios.

 

[Arch!]

I believe some (most) LVD harddisks are capable of working in SE(non-LVD) mode. But to get them working in that mode you'll need to set a jumper on the drive. Which jumper differs drive by drive. Check your drive's manual or the PCB of the drive may have it printed on it.
When you set this jumper you will have no need for the special LVD cable.

Of course, set to this mode your drive will not work at 'full' capacity, but if you only use one (or maybe even two) drive(s) I doubt you'll even notice the difference.

Your adaptec card is fine for this type of drive.

Bye!