RAID/ATA133

[hobcat1]

I just got my new computer today. I only ordered it with the hard drive and a DVD drive, because I already have a CDRW. So, I understand that both RAID ports can still function as normal IDE ports (ATA133 in my case). I wanted to know if this is true: my MB manual states that the first HD should always be connected to IDE 1. Due to the space in my Antec SX1040B, this isn't really possible. With the DVD and CDRW drives right next to each other (and because I have the rounded IDE cables), I can't bend one of the cables to connect to each other. Especially now, I have 4 channels, meaning I can connect the HD, DVD, and CDRW to their own. The only extra cable I had was not as long as a normal one, meaning it would only reach the harddrive. How should I connect the three devices? Would it really be better to connect the HD to IDE1, and the DVD (on ch. 1 now) to one of the RAID/IDE3 ports?

 

[CAMS]

Originally posted by: hobcat1
I So, I understand that both RAID ports can still function as normal IDE ports (ATA133 in my case).

It depends on the RAID controller/BIOS etc. AS you made no mention of your motherboard who knowns.
If you are having trouble with the rounded IDE cables then toss them, they are crap!
Some RAID controllers dont support optical either, list the board brand and model and you will get your answers.

 

[hobcat1]

Sorry 'bout that...

The rounded cables are brand name.
My motherboard is the KT3 ULTRA ARU from MSI. It uses a PROMISE Raid controller.
Right now, I have my CDRW on the top RAID/IDE3. It's not recognized in the BIOS or Windows. Does it really matter what channel the HD is on? I've heard that there are a few quirks when using a RAID port as non-RAID.
What would be the best config? Should I even use either of theRAID ports? I don't plan on burning straight from my other drive (artec 16x DVD), so should I put them on the same channel? Two opticals and a HD....So hard to figure out...

 

[sakic19]

hobcat1, iirc the raid port on your board only support hdd only. i think that's why your cdrw's not recognized. as for your hd, i'm not sure, but i think you can have the hd on either port (ide1,2,3or4), as long as you specify in bios which one to boot from. but i might be soooo wrong on this.