Path: utzoo!utgpu!news-server.csri.toronto.edu!cs.utexas.edu!sdd.hp.com!wuarchive!psuvax1!psuvm!ces8
From: CES8@psuvm.psu.edu
Newsgroups: comp.sys.ibm.ps2.hardware
Subject: Re: HD REPLACEMENT ON A PS2 30-286
Message-ID: <90348.133615CES8@psuvm.psu.edu>
Date: 14 Dec 90 18:36:15 GMT
References: <11129019:48:31MCG2@lehigh.bitnet>
Organization: Penn State University
Lines: 20


     I have replaced the 20MB drive in the PS/2 30-286 with an 85MB Seagate
ST1096N SCSI drive. I used a Seagate ST-01 SCSI controller card (8-bit, but
cheap). The total cost was $377 for the drive and controller (plus shipping).

     The installation was very simple, taking less than 30 minutes. I used
the skid plate from the old drive and I had to make a power cable since
the 30-286 does not have standard power connections for hard disks. The new
Seagate ST-01 controller (16KB ROM) has a power connector which simplifies
installation. I think that a 16-bit controller would yield better performance,
but it would also add an extra $100 to the price tag.

      A similar upgrade can be made on PS/2's with the microchannel bus since
MCA SCSI controllers are available from several sources.

      Also, the new hard disk could be placed in an external case with power
supply or mounted on a "drive on a card" frame if there is enough space
in the case.

      C.E. Soares     CES8@psuvm.psu.edu