NOTE

Installing the A5150A Adapter

SCSI Bus Termination

SCSI Bus Termination

The devices that make up the SCSI bus are connected serially (chained together) with SCSI cables. The first and last physical SCSI devices connected on the ends of the SCSI bus must have a set of resistors called terminators. All other SCSI devices on the bus must have their terminators removed or disabled.

The A5150A host bus adapter is also on the SCSI bus. Termination of the host bus adapter is automatically enabled when it is connected to the end of the bus.

Low-voltage differential peripheral devices are usually terminated with external terminators; however, they are sometimes terminated with jumpers or with a switch on the peripheral. Refer to the peripheral device manual to identify the termination setting of each device and how to change it.

Auto Termination Information

Two versions of the A5150A SCSI PCI Host Bus Adapter (HBA) will be in the field beginning approximately January 2001, with the release of a new version of the HBA. The older HBA has part number A5150-60001 and the new HBA has part number A5150-60101. The new HBA (also known as the jumperless A5150A) does not contain pins and jumpers used for manually configuring auto termination. On the jumperless A5150A, the default power-on setting has auto termination enabled. If you have the older adapter (A5150-60001), do not change the position of the jumpers; leave them as they were when you received the HBA from Hewlett-Packard (open - not jumpered). Auto termination in both A5150A HBAs—the A5150-60001 and the A5150-60101—is now controlled through commands at the Boot Console Handler (BCH) prompt. To use the auto termination feature of both A5150A HBAs, you must have the correct version of the Processor Dependent Code (PDC) on your system. The correct PDC versions are shown in Table 2-3.

Chapter 2

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HP A5150A manual Scsi Bus Termination, Auto Termination Information

A5150A specifications

The HP A5150A is a notable addition to HP's extensive line of desktop computers, designed to cater to both home and office users looking for a balance of performance and value. This model is characterized by its robust build and a range of features that enhance versatility and usability.

One of the standout features of the HP A5150A is its processor options. It typically comes equipped with a dual-core AMD Athlon processor, which provides ample power for everyday tasks such as web browsing, document editing, and multimedia playback. For users needing a little more performance, the system supports upgrades, allowing for future enhancements as demands change.

In terms of memory, the A5150A generally includes 1GB of DDR2 RAM, with options to expand depending on user needs. This flexibility ensures that users can manage multiple applications simultaneously without experiencing significant slowdowns, making it suitable for light multitasking.

Storage is another critical characteristic of the A5150A. The desktop commonly features a 160GB hard drive, offering enough space for essential files, programs, and media. However, users can benefit from additional storage options, as the unit typically supports multiple hard drive configurations, allowing for increased capacity or redundancy with RAID setups.

Graphics capabilities are addressed by an integrated ATI Radeon graphics processor, enabling decent performance for casual gaming and media playback. While it may not meet the demands of high-end gaming, the graphics hardware is sufficient for most users' everyday needs.

Connectivity features on the HP A5150A are comprehensive. It often includes multiple USB 2.0 ports for peripherals, audio jacks for headphones and microphones, and Ethernet connectivity for network access. Furthermore, connectivity options like VGA outputs provide compatibility with a variety of displays, enhancing the desktop's functionality.

The HP A5150A also places an emphasis on ease of use and manageability. With HP's user-friendly design, tasks such as upgrading components or performing maintenance can generally be completed without extensive technical knowledge. This focus on user accessibility is a significant advantage, especially for small business environments.

In summary, the HP A5150A stands out for its reliable performance, versatility, and user-friendly design. With features catering to both casual users and business applications, this desktop remains a solid choice for those in search of value without compromising essential functionalities. Its upgrade potential ensures that it can evolve alongside user needs, making it a lasting investment in the realm of personal computing.