bc@jc3b21.UUCP (Costello) (03/10/89)
One day soon, I plan to purchase a '386 AT clone. I've basically narrowed my choice(s) to either a Zeos or Northgate 16mhz '386. Both those models would be similarly equipped. The main difference that concerns me is their choice of hard disks. The Zeos people use a Seagate ST-277R and an Adaptec RLL controller. This is apparently a 65mb half-height drive. Norhtgate uses a Microscience 65mb (or 67, or something like that), model number unknown, same RLL controller card. My question is this: is one of the listed drives inherently better or worse thatn the other, and/or are either of them to be avoided like plague? I'd appreciate any comments or experiences with these specific drives. I have read a lot of recent postings that berate the Seagate products, but I have also heard some real satisfied people talk about certain models. I know of no one who has used the Microscience drive. One other thing: are there any bad, bad things I should know about with the RLL controller boards? I've heard some people say that the RLL system should be avoided. If so, why? Many thanks... either mail me replies or post 'em. I read the news often. Bill Costello (bc@jc3b21) voice, days: 813/576-5482 x. 272
Star-Raider@cup.portal.com (Jack Wahoo Pettrey) (03/13/89)
Bill, All I can offer is that I've had a Northgate for over a year now with their 65 meg h/d, and 28ns access time with no problems whatsoever. They have been consistently rated the fastest h/d in the country by the 'puter rags. Another major asset of Northgate is their outstanding service policy. Upon receipt of my computer, the locking mechanism got stuck in the "locked" position for some bizarre reason. I called Northgate and they Federal Expresse me a new console panel at no charge either for the part or the shipping. Their ads quoting "no baloney" are factual, and I'm quite satisfied with both the quality of the machine and their service support. Jack Pettrey (Lockport, NY)