General
Max. devices	15/30

The Tekram DC390U4B is a SCSI controller for use in servers and workstations, connected via a 64-bit PCI-X bus with a clock frequency of 133 MHz. The controller supports a maximum data transfer rate of 1066 MB/s, making it suitable for applications with high I/O requirements. It is specifically designed for operation with Ultra 320 SCSI devices, but also offers backward compatibility with earlier SCSI generations such as Ultra160, Ultra2 LVD, Ultra-Wide SCSI, Ultra, and SCSI-2. Support for protocols such as Double Transition Clocking, Packetized Protocol, Quick Arbitration and Selection, Skew Compensation, and Domain Validation ensures stable and efficient communication in the SCSI network.

SCSI controller with PCI-X interface and Ultra 320 LVD support enables a maximum transfer rate of 320 MB/s. The controller features an integrated SCSI processor of type LSI 53C1020, specifically developed for the DC390U4B. The SCSI BIOS function is implemented via flash memory, allowing flexible updates. The controller has a single SCSI channel capable of addressing up to 15 internal and 30 external SCSI devices, with the maximum number of devices limited by physical topology and cable usage.

Application areas include connecting internal and external SCSI devices such as hard disk drives (HDD), tape drives, CD-ROM and DVD-ROM drives, MO drives, and RAID systems. Internal connection is made via a 68-pin HD connector, intended for internal SCSI devices. External connection is via a 68-pin VHDCI connector, suitable for external SCSI peripherals. The included cables consist of an internal LVD twisted-pair cable, supporting up to four devices, the card, and the terminator. Additionally, internal Ultra-Wide and Ultra/SCSI-2 cables are provided for the DC390U4W model type, but not for the DC390U4B.

Functions and features in detail include a heatsink with a removable fan, enhancing the reliability and stability of the controller. The integrated SCSI BIOS function allows configuration and control of SCSI devices via the system BIOS. Driver support includes operating systems such as DOS ASPI, Novell NetWare, Solaris, Sun Solaris, Windows 2000/NT/XP, SCO Unix Open Desktop/Open Server, SCO UnixWare, and Linux. The delivery includes a user manual as well as a diskette with drivers and software enhancement tools.

Technology explained simply shows that the PCI-X bus is an extended version of the classic PCI bus, enabling higher data rates. The use of LVD (Low Voltage Differential) signals ensures improved signal integrity and longer cable runs. Support for Ultra 320 LVD enables a maximum transfer rate of 320 MB/s, sufficient for modern SCSI applications. The integrated SCSI BIOS function via flash memory allows flexible and secure firmware updates without replacing hardware.

Compatibility and accessories include use with internal and external SCSI devices supporting the mentioned protocols. The included cables and adapters are specifically designed for connecting to SCSI devices. Driver support for various operating systems enables flexible integration into existing IT infrastructures.

Mounting and installation is done via a standard PCI-X slot in the system. Internal cabling is performed via the 68-pin HD connector, with the included cables enabling connections to internal SCSI devices. External connection is via the 68-pin VHDCI connector. Driver installation is done using the included diskette, with detailed steps described in the user manual.

Operational advantages include high data transfer rates, backward compatibility with older SCSI generations, and stable communication through integrated protocol functions. The use of LVD signals and the removable fan increase the reliability and lifespan of the controller. Support for multiple operating systems enables flexible use in various IT environments.