SCSI array as external drives for non SCSI computer. Doable?

Ryushikaze · Post by **Ryushikaze** » 2008-04-16 01:17pm

So, I recently got my hands on a number of SCSI drives when a place was tossing out all of their old computer equipment for free. I picked them up because I figured I could use the fans etc. for parts, but as it turns out, one of the towers I picked up had 120+ GB worth of SCSI in it. Now, I'm not particularly familiar with the SCSI format, so does anyone know if there's much in the way of conversion to use a SCSI array as set of external drives for a Win XP laptop, like a USB connector? Or do I just happen to have a very stylish paperweight with usable flanges?

DaveJB · Post by **DaveJB** » 2008-04-16 01:55pm

There's something at the top of this page that sounds like what you're looking for, but it only supports a single drive and costs over $200. To be honest though, I don't think that such a set-up would be a great performer due to all the USB-SCSI translation that would have to take place.

A better idea might be to grab an old PC, install an SCSI controller and your drives together with a Linux distro, then use it as network storage, perhaps over Wi-Fi.

Kitsune · Post by **Kitsune** » 2008-04-16 05:07pm

I also just bought a white label 250 Gig HD for around $50
Makes the value questionable for the SCSI...sorry

RThurmont · Post by **RThurmont** » 2008-04-16 07:06pm

A better idea might be to grab an old PC, install an SCSI controller and your drives together with a Linux distro, then use it as network storage, perhaps over Wi-Fi.

That's what I do, actually, and that's probably the way to go IMO. You take an 8 disk SCSI array, connect it to an old, but reliable desktop (with well-functioning fans) and you have a nice home server system.

phongn · Post by **phongn** » 2008-04-16 07:07pm

Ryushikaze wrote:Now, I'm not particularly familiar with the SCSI format, so does anyone know if there's much in the way of conversion to use a SCSI array as set of external drives for a Win XP laptop, like a USB connector? Or do I just happen to have a very stylish paperweight with usable flanges?

You could do that, or get a CardBus SCSI adapter, but frankly it isn't worth it.

Ryushikaze · Post by **Ryushikaze** » 2008-04-17 12:32pm

Kitsune wrote:I also just bought a white label 250 Gig HD for around $50
Makes the value questionable for the SCSI...sorry

Honestly, I only asked because I got them for free. Given that purchasing a SCSI adapter is going to be about half the price of just getting a new 500 GB drive, I think I'll give the SCSI option a pass unless I find a damn good deal on the card.

Thanks for the responses, all.