7.4 Terminating the SCSI bus

To ensure reliable communication on the SCSI bus, the ends of the SCSI bus must be properly terminated. This is accomplished when the device at the end of the each cable, or the end of the cable itself, has a terminator installed (or enabled). Terminators must be removed, or termination must be disabled, on devices between the ends of each cable.

Since the method for terminating a SCSI device can vary widely, refer to the device’s documentation for instructions on how to enable or disable termination. Here are some general guidelines for termination:

Internal Ultra 320 and Ultra 2 SCSI devices come from the factory with termination disabled and cannot be changed. Proper termination for internal Ultra 320 and Ultra2 SCSI devices is provided by a 68-pin Internal LVD (low voltage differential) SCSI cable, which has a built- in terminator at its end.

Termination on non-Ultra 320 and Ultra2 internal SCSI devices usually is controlled by manually setting a jumper or a switch on the device, or by physically removing or installing one or more resistor modules on the device.

Termination on most external SCSI devices is controlled by installing or removing a SCSI terminator. However, termination on some exter- nal SCSI devices is enable or disabled by setting a swetich on the back of the SCSI device.

The last external Ultra 320 or Ultra2 SCSI device must be terminated with an LVD/SE (low voltage differential/single ended) terminator plug to ensure that the device will operate at its maximum speed. If you use a different kind of terminator plug, the data I/O rate will decrease.

By default, termination on the SCSI controller itself is set to Automatic (the preferred method). We recommend that you do not change this default setting.

7.5 Configuring the SCSI interface with SCSISelect

SCSISelect, included with the CPU card, enables you to change SCSI set- tings without opening the computer. SCSISelect also enables you to low- level format or verify the disk media of your SCSI hard disk drives. The following table lists the available and default settings for each SCSISelect option.

Note:

The default settings are appropriate for most sys-

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Advantech PCA-6185 user manual Terminating the Scsi bus, Configuring the Scsi interface with SCSISelect

PCA-6185 specifications

The Advantech PCA-6185 is a high-performance, industrial-grade single-board computer designed for a variety of applications, particularly in automated, industrial, and embedded systems. It leverages the powerful Intel architecture to deliver robust computing power, making it an ideal choice for those needing reliability and performance in mission-critical environments.

One of the main features of the PCA-6185 is its support for the Intel Core i7/i5/i3 and Celeron processors, providing significant processing capabilities while ensuring energy efficiency. This range of processor options delivers the flexibility needed to tailor the board to specific application requirements, allowing users to balance performance with thermal constraints effectively.

In terms of memory, the PCA-6185 supports dual-channel DDR4 SO-DIMM slots, accommodating up to 32GB of RAM. This generous memory capacity improves multitasking capabilities and allows for demanding applications to run smoothly. Additionally, the onboard Intel HD Graphics engine enhances video processing performance, supporting 4K resolution outputs for advanced graphical applications.

The I/O capabilities of the PCA-6185 are extensive, with multiple options for connectivity and expansion. It features a variety of ports, including USB 3.0, USB 2.0, Serial ports, and Ethernet interfaces, enabling seamless integration with other devices and networks. The board offers PCIe expansion slots for added flexibility, allowing developers to customize their systems with specialized hardware.

Durability and reliability are significant considerations for any industrial application, and the PCA-6185 excels in this area as well. Designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions, it has a wide operating temperature range, making it suitable for deployment in demanding settings. Its fanless design also contributes to longevity by reducing wear and tear on moving components.

Another noteworthy characteristic is the board’s support for various operating systems, including Windows and Linux. This compatibility ensures that developers can choose their preferred environment, enhancing software integration and development speed.

In summary, the Advantech PCA-6185 is a versatile and powerful single-board computer that adeptly meets the needs of industrial and embedded applications. With its robust Intel processing capabilities, substantial memory support, and extensive I/O options, it provides a reliable foundation for complex tasks in challenging environments. Its durability and flexibility make it a top choice for engineers and developers looking to create efficient and long-lasting computing solutions.