General
Maximum cable length	12 m

The Tekram DC390U3D is a PCI SCSI controller designed for use in servers and workstations with high requirements for data transfer rates and system reliability. It connects a 64-bit PCI bus with two independent Ultra 160 SCSI channels, achieving a maximum combined data transfer rate of up to 320 MB/s. Support for up to 30 SCSI devices makes it particularly suitable for connecting external hard disk arrays as well as RAID configurations such as mirroring and striping of SCSI hard drives. The technology is based on Ultra160 SCSI (LVD), which enables a data rate of up to 160 MB/s per channel, thus offering double the speed compared to Ultra 2 SCSI.

Applications

The controller is designed for demanding environments where high data throughput and a stable, reliable connection are required. It is especially suitable for systems handling large data volumes, such as database servers, backup solutions, or media workstations. Support for external hard disk arrays and RAID configurations allows flexible scaling of storage capacity and improves data security through redundant storage.

Functions and Features in Detail

The DC390U3D integrates two new functions to ensure data integrity: CRC (Cyclic Redundancy Checking) and Domain Validation. CRC protects data from loss during poor connections or during hot-swapping, i.e., replacing a hard drive without restarting the system. Domain Validation ensures that data transfer rates are always maintained at the maximum possible level by optimizing communication parameters between devices. These functions increase system reliability, especially in dynamic environments.

Technology Explained Simply

The use of Ultra160 SCSI (LVD) enables higher data rates and improved signal quality compared to older SCSI generations. The LVD technology (Low Voltage Differential) reduces interference and allows for longer cable connections. The controller supports cables up to 12 meters in length, enabling flexible arrangement of SCSI devices in data centers or server rooms. The 64-bit PCI interface provides high bandwidth and is suitable for modern systems that need to transfer large data volumes.

Compatibility and Accessories

The DC390U3D is compatible with a wide range of SCSI devices, including Ultra 160 hard drives, as well as classic narrow-SCSI devices such as CD-R/W, CD-ROM, MO drives, scanners, and tape drives. Support for various device types allows flexible integration into existing system environments. Combining it with other products from the DC-390U3D/W series enables a scalable solution, with the DC-390U3W variant, for example, supporting a single channel with up to 160 MB/s and a maximum of 15 devices.

Installation and Mounting

The controller is inserted into a free PCI slot of the computer and does not require additional power supply cables, as power is supplied via the PCI bus. Installation is performed using the included driver software, which is available for the respective operating system environment. Physical mounting is standard, requiring no special tools or additional components.

Advantages in Operation

By combining high data rates, a large number of devices, and integrated safety functions such as CRC and Domain Validation, the DC390U3D offers a stable and powerful solution for SCSI networks. Support for hot-swap enables maintenance work without system downtime, increasing server availability. The cable length of up to 12 meters provides flexibility in device placement, which is particularly beneficial in larger server rooms.