SCSI RAID controller advice

[capitano]

Hi,

I have a simple question. I am experienced with building PC workstations with IDE drives. For my next project, I want to build a small, mid-range, file/web server with Raid 5, SCSI drives.

Can somebody give me some advice on brands/models of hardware RAID controllers? I'm seeing everything from $200 to well over $1000. I don't think I need something super top-of-the-line, but just something reliable and fast.

Thanks,
Bryan

 

[CitrixEngineer]

I bought an old Mylex controller on e-Bay for £50 (c.$75), but new Mylex controllers are around £250 (c. $375). The Mylex 170 should be fine for what you're trying to do. However, if you think you're going to need dual channel rather than single channel, the AcceleRAID 352 is a good entry-level choice.

The Adaptec 2100S is a bit more expensive, but gives slightly better performance.

Both Mylex and Adpatec are good at this level, however.
CitrixEngineer@yahoo.co.uk

 

[capitano]

Thanks very much. This is extraordinarily helpful. I'll look into these brands of Mylex and Adaptec.

I think single-channel raid is sufficient as I will have much fewer than 15 devices. I still have a couple questions:

1. What will I need for cabling, connectors, and other accessories? With the cable they supply in the box, will it actually connect 15 devices? Or do I need to buy something specifically for the number of devices I have? Forgive me, I'm an absolute newbie with scsi device accessories, etc.

2. I notice the ultra160 scsi connectors on the RAID card itself is 68 pins. Likewise with the cable. But the ultra160 18.4GB Seagate drives I'm looking at are 80 pins! What gives? Is there an adapter? Am I looking at something incorrectly?

Thanks again for the help,
Bryan