igreenaw@hemel.bull.co.uk (ian greenaway) (03/19/91)
I already have an old IBM-PC type ST506 MFM drive and I want to connect it to my A500 (which has Zorro II also). What I require, I think, is either the Spirit HDA506 gadget or the Wedge (or Palomax is it ?). I have a PC-XT half length MFM controller so I just need the Amiga interface. I am OK with a soldering iron, so instructions for a DIY kit type thing would be ok. Thanx in advance email to igreenaw@hemel.bull.co.uk (or reply via the news if you prefer)
m0154@tnc.UUCP (GUY GARNETT) (03/20/91)
There are three ways that I know of to install a MFM or RLL type ST-506 hard drive to an Amiga (500, 1000, or 2000; possibly also 3000, but why in the world would you want to). Perhaps this information can be added to the FAQ list? 1) MAX from PALOMAX (424 Moreboro Rd, Hatboro, PA 19040; 215-672-6815) They have two basic products: the "Max Hard-Drive Hacker's Kit", which is a manual and disk describing in detail (including schematics and mechanical drawings) how to build an interface for IBM-PC XT or AT type controller cards (any WD-1003 compatible controller will work; the OMTI controllers are preferred). The necessary software is provided on disk (including a backup and restore program). This product was around $100 the last time I checked. They also sell "Max-125", which is an assembled and tested interface (presumably similar to the one described in the hacker's package). It can support up to four WD-1003 compatible controllers (including 16 bit AT controllers, and some ESDI controllers). The interface is without case, power supply, or a case for the drive. The software drivers are v2.x compatible, and also work with AMAXII. The pricing starts at around $175. 2) HDA-506 from Spirit Technologies (220 West, 2950 South, Salt Lake City, Utah 84115; 1-800-433-7572). Their main product is the adapter, with an ST-506 controller card, a case for the controller and the drive (2 5 1/4" half-height), with power supply. This costs around $400 (recently raised from $300). They claim that the thing is compatible with LUCAS/FRANCES and other Acellerators (MAX may have trouble with LUCAS/FRANCES, but does work with the Midget Racer). 3) ALF from Pre'spect Technics (PO Box 670, Station H, Montreal, Quebec H3G 2M6; 514-954-1483). Pre'Spect sells a whole line of ST-506 drive controllers and drives; their products range from things like MAX-125 (bard interface board, no controller, drive, case, or power suply) to things like the HDA-506 (everything you need, in a case, with a power supply). They also sell systems with drives installed. Prices vary, but tend to be a little higher than the other two for equivalent systems (however, Pre'Spect includes more utility software, and claims a faster interface). Caveats: If you buy a system with a controller installed, be sure to get an OMTI rather than a Western Digital controller. For Amiga applications, the OMTI is faster, and supports bad-track remapping (which the WD controllers do not). Disclaimer: I have never run my system with any of these; I want to buy one in the near future, and have been researching them. From what I have found out, I will probably by the Spirit HDA-506. I am not affilliated with any of these companies. I have purchased the MAX hard drive hacker's kit from PaloMax, but haven't attempted to construct it (I am not confident enough of my electronics construction skills). Wildstar