Computer T

Interface..........

When looking to purchase a hard drive, the first and foremost important consideration is the interface the hard drive uses to connect and communicate with the computer. Below is a listing of each of the available interfaces with information how they may or may not apply to your computer.

  • SATA - The more commonly found hard drive and used with all new computers. Most computers today can accommodate at least two SATA devices, and sometimes up to four or six SATA devices. Hard drives and other devices, like CD and DVD drives, can utilize a SATA connection. Make sure your computer has a SATA connection before purchasing this type of hard drive.
  • IDE/ATAPI/ATA - Another common hard drive interface used with older IBM compatible computers. IDE supports a maximum of four IDE devices, which can include hard drives and CD-ROM drives. Make sure your computer has an IDE/ATAPI/ATA connection before purchasing this type of drive.
  • SCSI - A less common interface, SCSI devices are found on older Apple computers, older IBM computers, and some servers. The SCSI interface is a faster solution when compared to IDE/ATAPI and can support up to eight drives.
  • External (USB, FireWire, or Parallel) - Several external solutions are also available; these include but are not limited to USB, FireWire, eSATA, and Parallel. When considering an external hard drive, it is important to look at the speed difference for transferring data to and from the hard drive.

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