PlexWriter 12X SCSI vs ATAPI Shootout (Page 2/7)

Posted: November 17, 2000
Written by: Tuan "Solace" Nguyen

Specifications

PlexWriter 12/10/32S (UltraSCSI Internal)
- Ultra SCSI Interface
- 3-in-1 drive: 12X CD-R, 4X CD-RW, 32X max CD-ROM
- BURN-Proof Technology
- 150ms Average Random Access
- 4 MB Buffer
- Records highest quality audio CD’s
- Capable of Digital Audio Extraction at 32X max
- Supports CD-DA; CD-ROM (Mode 1); CD-ROM (Mixed Mode); CD-ROM XA (Mode 2, Form 1 or Form 2 and Mixed Form); CD-I; Photo CD; Video CD; CD-Extra (CD-Plus); CD+G; CD Text
- Compatible with a large number of CD-R and CD-RW media
- Flash ROM allows for easy upgrade over the Internet
- Windows Plug & Play Compatible
- Supports Disc-at-Once, Track-at-Once, Session-at-Once, Variable & Fixed packet writing modes
- One-Year Full Warranty and Unlimited Toll-Free Tech Support

PlexWriter 12/10/32A (ATAPI Internal)
- ATAPI-4 Interface
- 3-in-1 drive: 12X CD-R, 10X CD-RW, 32X max CD-ROM
- BURN-Proof Technology
- 150ms Average Random Access
- 2 MB Buffer
- Records highest quality audio CD’s
- Capable of Digital Audio Extraction at 24X max
- Supports CD-DA; CD-ROM (Mode 1); CD-ROM (Mixed Mode); CD-ROM XA (Mode 2, Form 1 or Form 2 and Mixed Form); CD-I; Photo CD; Video CD; CD-Extra (CD-Plus); CD+G; CD Text
- Compatible with a large number of CD-R and CD-RW media
- Flash ROM allows for easy upgrade over the Internet
- Windows Plug & Play Compatible
- Supports Disc-at-Once, Track-at-Once, Session-at-Once, Variable & Fixed packet writing modes
- One-Year Full Warranty and Unlimited Toll-Free Tech Support

From the looks of it, both drives go head to head in terms of specifications. They are almost identical. The only major differences between the two drives are their interfaces and their buffers.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the PlexWriter 12/10/32S (UltraSCSI)

Let’s take a look at the advantages you get for going with the PlexWriter 12/10/32S. First off, you get the benefit of UltraSCSI. Having a SCSI interface means that you can enjoy smooth write times and not really worry about system resources being boggled down by the drive. You also get a true multitasking data-bus that can queue commands and accept multiple I/O requests simultaneously. Also, having something like a cheap Ultra SCSI host adapter, you won’t have to use up an IDE channel on your motherboard -- which can be used for mass storage.

On the other hand, getting the 12/10/32S means you either already have a SCSI host adapter or you have to go out and purchase one -- which adds to the overall purchase cost.

Another advantage that the 12/10/32S offers is a 4MB buffer to keep all your burns running smoothly. This, coupled with BURN-Proof technology greatly reduces your chances of creating a coaster.

Next Page