3.2Configuring the drive

Each drive on the Serial ATA interface connects point-to-point with the Serial ATA host adapter. There is no master/slave relationship because each drive is considered a master in a point-to-point relationship. If two drives are attached on one Serial ATA host adapter, the host operating system views the two devices as if they were both “masters” on two separate ports. Both drives behave as if they are Device 0 (master) devices.

Serial ATA drives are designed for easy installation. It is usually not necessary to set any jumpers on the drive for proper operation; however, if you connect the drive and receive a “drive not detected” error, your SATA- equipped motherboard or host adapter may use a chipset that does not support SATA speed autonegotiation. If you have a motherboard or host adapter that does not support autonegotiation:

Install a jumper as shown in Figure 3 below to limit the data transfer rate to 1.5 Gbits per second (and leave the drive connected to the SATA-equipped motherboard or host adapter that doesn’t support autonegotiation) or

Install a SATA host adapter that supports autonegotiation, leave the drive jumper block set to “Normal operation” (see Figure 3 below), and connect the drive to that adapter. This option has the benefit of not limiting the drive to a 1.5 Gbits/sec transfer rate.

3.0 Gbits per second operation

Limit data transfer rate to 1.5 Gbits per second

Jumper block

SATA power connector

SATA interface connector

Figure 3. Serial ATA connectors

3.3Serial ATA cables and connectors

The Serial ATA interface cable consists of four conductors in two differential pairs, plus three ground connec- tions. The cable size may be 30 to 26 AWG with a maximum length of one meter (39.37 inches). See Table 5 for connector pin definitions. Either end of the SATA signal cable can be attached to the drive or host.

For direct backplane connection, the drive connectors are inserted directly into the host receptacle. The drive and the host receptacle incorporate features that enable the direct connection to be hot pluggable and blind mateable.

For installations which require cables, you can connect the drive as illustrated in Figure 4.

Signal connector

Power connector

Signal cable

Power cable

Figure 4. Attaching SATA cabling

Each cable is keyed to ensure correct orientation. Barracuda LP Series SATA drives support latching SATA connectors.

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Seagate ST32000542AS, ST31000520AS, ST31500541AS manual Configuring the drive, Serial ATA cables and connectors

ST32000542AS, ST31000520AS, ST31500541AS specifications

Seagate has long been a prominent player in the hard disk drive (HDD) market, and their SATA drives have earned a reputation for reliability and performance. Among their notable models are the ST31500541AS, ST31000520AS, and ST32000542AS, each offering unique features and technologies that cater to various storage needs.

The ST31500541AS is a 1.5TB SATA drive known for its robust data handling capabilities. Operating at 7200 RPM, it offers a data transfer rate of up to 6Gb/s, making it suitable for demanding applications that require quick access to large files. This model features Seagate’s perpendicular recording technology, which increases storage density and efficiency. With an average seek time of 8.5 ms, users can expect swift performance for both read and write operations. Its 32MB cache also aids in enhancing data transfer rates and minimizing lag during data retrieval.

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Lastly, the ST32000542AS offers a compelling 2TB storage solution. This model caters to users with extensive storage needs, whether it be for multimedia content, backup solutions, or database management. Like its predecessors, it runs at 7200 RPM and benefits from Seagate's innovative technologies, including error correction and data recovery enhancements. With increased storage capacity and performance, this model is particularly suited for both personal and professional setups where data loss is not an option.

In summary, the Seagate ST31500541AS, ST31000520AS, and ST32000542AS exemplify the company's commitment to delivering high-performance hard drive solutions. With their emphasis on speed, energy efficiency, and advanced technologies such as perpendicular recording and power management, each model stands out in its capacity range, making them valuable assets for users seeking dependable storage options. Whether you're a gamer, a creative professional, or need a reliable backup solution, these drives are engineered to meet diverse computing needs with ease.