CHAPTER 5: Driver Installation

5. Driver Installation

This chapter describes how to install the necessary Ultra2 LVD SCSI Host Adapter driver(s) for each of the operating systems that the Adapter supports. As you read these instructions, please keep in mind that any text enclosed by <angle brackets> is actually the name of a keyboard key: For example, if you are instructed to type “<ENTER>”, that means you should press the ENTER key on your PC keyboard. Similarly, <ESC> stands for the ESC (Escape) key, <CTRL> for the CTRL (Control) key, <ALT> for the ALT (Alternate) key, and <DEL> for the DEL (Delete) key.

5.1 Installing Drivers for MS-DOS

CAUTION!

The Adapter can be used, in a limited way, in PCs running Windows 3.1x: Once you boot into DOS and use the procedure in Section 5.1.1 to install the MS-DOS drivers on your system, they will enable your Windows 3.1x machine to control hard drives and CD-ROM drives. However, Adapters installed in Windows 3.1x PCs can’t support any other types of SCSI devices, so we strongly recommend that you upgrade your operating system rather than operate the Adapter in a Windows 3.1x PC.

The Ultra2 LVD SCSI Host Adapter’s ASPI driver will support extended SCSI command functions for MS-DOS 3.30 or later. The on-board BIOS initialized during the power-up boot routine only supports MS-DOS hard-disk operation. If you use CD-ROM and/or MO disks, you’ll need to install the Adapter’s CD-ROM and/or MO drivers as well as its ASPI driver. If you use other types of SCSI peripherals, such as tape drives, you will need to install a third-party driver as well as the ASPI driver.

The installation procedure guides you through the installation of the DOS ASPI driver. The installation procedure described here requires some experience in MS-DOS system setup and administration. The device driver is transferred from Driver Disk 1 to the hard drive, from which it is automatically loaded during the system boot routine.

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Black Box SCSI-2 LVD manual Driver Installation, Installing Drivers for MS-DOS

SCSI-2 LVD specifications

The Black Box SCSI-2 LVD (Low Voltage Differential) represents a significant advancement in data storage and connectivity technology, particularly in environments requiring high performance and reliability. As a variant of the SCSI (Small Computer System Interface) standard, it is optimized for faster data communication, essential for modern computing needs.

One of the main features of SCSI-2 LVD is its capability to handle increased data transfer speeds compared to its predecessors. It supports a maximum data transfer rate of up to 80 MB/s, which is double that of the original SCSI-2 single-ended signaling. This increase in speed is largely due to the differential signaling that LVD employs, allowing for reduced electromagnetic interference and extended cable lengths while maintaining signal integrity. The technology effectively converts the SCSI bus into a more robust system that can accommodate various devices without compromising performance.

The SCSI-2 LVD standard is backward compatible, meaning that it can interface with older SCSI devices, albeit at reduced speeds. This compatibility is significant for users looking to upgrade their systems without discarding existing hardware. This makes SCSI-2 LVD an attractive choice for enterprise environments where legacy systems are common.

Another key characteristic is the flexible cabling options provided by SCSI-2 LVD. It can support cable lengths of up to 12 meters, which is beneficial for large data center configurations where space between devices can be substantial. This extended range does not typically come at the expense of performance, ensuring that data integrity remains high, even over longer distances.

In terms of technology, LVD employs lower voltage levels, which not only contributes to greater power efficiency but also minimizes heat generation in devices. This is particularly crucial in data centers where temperature management can impact hardware longevity and reliability. The combination of lower voltage use and differential signaling makes SCSI-2 LVD well-suited for high-density environments.

Error correction and handshaking features are also integral to SCSI-2 LVD, enhancing its robustness against data loss during transmission. These characteristics make it a reliable choice for applications requiring consistent and high-speed data access, such as server arrays and high-performance computing tasks.

Overall, Black Box SCSI-2 LVD stands out due to its impressive speed, compatibility, and extensive cabling options, positioning it as a reliable solution for demanding data environments. It effectively bridges the gap between legacy systems and modern technology, ensuring that users can optimize their data handling capabilities without significant disruption.