ssdesai@ELBERETH.RUTGERS.EDU (Sunil S. Desai) (02/02/90)
Hi ! I am in the process of upgrading our Novell file server to a higher capacity hard disk. The server is a Compaq 386/16. We are running Novell Advanced NetWare v2.15 on an ethernet. Most of our workstations (25) have Western Digital Ethercard+ and some (7) have the 3COM 501 NICs. We want to install a 330 mb hard disk and also add a tape back up system. CompuAdd has an ad for their ESDI HardCache controller card that can have upto 4mb of RAM on the controller card for disk caching. They are advertising the card and 330mb disk combo for $2385. Has anyone used this controller card? Does it deliver what the ad says? How reliable and compatible is the card? Are there any other companies that have disk caching ESDI controller cards ? I am also looking for a reliable tape back up system for this server. The system should also be able to make local hard disk back ups through the network. Any suggestions and recommendations will be most welcome. Thanks in advance. sunil desai ssdesai@elbereth.rutgers.edu ~~~~~~~~~~~
WCOWART@UGA.BITNET (Butch Cowart) (02/03/90)
I have used a DPT SmartCache card with an MFM drive. It uses the existing system's BIOS (Requires NO drivers). This card is used in a Concurrent DOS system with 4 terminals and a window to our Netware LAN to exchange data. Performance improved by about 300% with 512K on the card. Butch Cowart Information Analyst UGA Health Service Athens, GA Athens, GA