Description
Product Overview for the Adaptec AHA-2940W
The AHA-2940W Adaptec 32-Bit PCI-To-Fast SCSI Host Bus Adapter is a crucial component in computer systems designed for high-speed data transfer and efficient communication between various peripherals. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricate details of this adapter, exploring its features, functionality, installation process, and benefits.
Understanding the Basics
What is the AHA-2940W Adaptec 32-Bit PCI-To-Fast SCSI Host Bus Adapter?
The AHA-2940W is a SCSI (Small Computer System Interface) Host Bus Adapter designed by Adaptec. It serves as an interface between the computer’s PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) bus and SCSI devices, enabling the seamless connection of peripherals such as hard drives, scanners, printers, and more.
Key Features
- 32-Bit Architecture: The AHA-2940W operates on a 32-bit architecture, providing enhanced data transfer capabilities. This ensures faster communication between the computer and connected SCSI devices.
- Fast SCSI Support: The “Fast SCSI” designation signifies support for the Fast SCSI protocol, a high-speed version of the SCSI standard. This allows for quicker data transfer rates, improving overall system performance.
- PCI Interface: The adapter is equipped with a PCI interface, making it compatible with a wide range of computer systems. The PCI architecture provides a standardized connection, promoting interoperability and ease of integration.
- Wide Device Compatibility: AHA-2940W is compatible with various SCSI devices, making it a versatile solution for different applications. From storage devices to scanners and printers, this adapter ensures seamless connectivity.
Benefits and Applications
The Advantages of AHA-2940W Adaptec 32-Bit PCI-To-Fast SCSI Host Bus Adapter
- High-Speed Data Transfer: The 32-bit architecture and support for Fast SCSI contribute to high-speed data transfer rates. This is particularly beneficial for tasks that involve large file transfers or data-intensive applications.
- Versatility in Peripheral Connectivity: The AHA-2940W’s compatibility with a wide range of SCSI devices makes it versatile for various applications. Users can connect multiple peripherals, expanding the functionality of their computer system.
- Reliability and Stability: Adaptec is renowned for producing reliable and stable hardware. The AHA-2940W is no exception, providing a robust solution for users who prioritize system stability.
- Scalability: The adapter supports scalability, allowing users to easily add or upgrade SCSI devices without the need for extensive modifications to the existing system.
Performance of SCSI Host Bus Adapter
The performance of the Adaptec AHA-2940W SCSI Host Bus Adapter (HBA) will depend on a variety of factors, including the number and type of connected SCSI devices, the workload being run on the system, and the host computer’s capabilities.
In terms of data transfer rate, The AHA-2940W supports Ultra Wide SCSI (Ultra160) technology, which provides data transfer rates up to 160 MB/s, this is a relatively high data transfer rate for its time, which makes it well-suited for high-performance workloads such as high-definition video editing, large-scale databases, and scientific simulations.
The HBA also supports advanced features such as tagged command queuing, which allows the host to send multiple commands to a SCSI device at the same time, improving performance, and auto-configuration, which automatically detects and configures connected SCSI devices, which can help to reduce setup time and improve ease of use.
It’s important to note that the performance of the AHA-2940W will also depend on the performance of the connected SCSI devices and the host computer it’s installed in. The AHA-2940W is an older technology and it is based on a 32-bit PCI interface, which may limit its compatibility with newer computers and it is not recommended for new installations.
Exceptional Reliability
The Adaptec AHA-2940W SCSI Host Bus Adapter (HBA) is designed to provide a reliable connection between SCSI devices and a host computer, however, the HBA is an older technology and it is no longer supported by Adaptec. As a result, the reliability of the AHA-2940W may be limited in comparison to newer SCSI host bus adapters.
The AHA-2940W supports Ultra Wide SCSI (Ultra160) technology and it supports up to 15 SCSI devices, which can provide a high level of reliability when connecting multiple devices to the host computer.
It also features an onboard BIOS that allows for booting from a SCSI device, which can help to improve the availability of the system in case of a failure of the primary boot device.
The HBA also supports advanced features such as auto-configuration, which automatically detects and configures connected SCSI devices, and tagged command queuing, which allows the host to send multiple commands to an SCSI device at the same time, which can help to improve the performance and the reliability of the system.
However, it’s important to note that the AHA-2940W is an older technology and it is based on a 32-bit PCI interface, which may limit its compatibility with newer computers, also its no longer supported by Adaptec and it is not recommended for new installations. It is always recommended to consider newer technology options that have better reliability, and performance and are supported by their vendors.
General Information about this Adaptec AHA-2940W
- Manufacturer: Adaptec
- Part Number or SKU# AHA-2940W
- Product Type: SCSI Controller
- Product Name: Controller
Technical Information of Host Bus Adapter
- Data Transfer Rate: 20 MBPS
- Form Factor: Plug-in Card
- Interface: PCI
- Ports: Ultra2 SCSI
In short, the AHA-2940W Adaptec 32-Bit PCI-To-Fast SCSI Host Bus Adapter is a reliable and versatile solution for users seeking high-speed data transfer and efficient connectivity with SCSI devices. By understanding its features, installation process, benefits, and troubleshooting tips, users can make the most of this adapter, enhancing the performance and functionality of their computer systems. Whether you’re a professional managing complex data tasks or a casual user looking to expand your system’s capabilities, the AHA-2940W is a valuable addition to consider.
