More than 4 IDE devices needed, hlp!

[SuperG]

I have a quick question. I am in need of having more than 4 IDE devices connected to my computer at the same time. My mobo has 2 IDE channels, each supporting 2 devices, which is standard. I wanted to know, if there is a PCI card, etc. that I can get to allow me to connect and additional 2 or 4 IDE devices. If this is possible, how much is it, as I am looking for an inexpensive solution if possible. Also, for whatever is available, what is the best brand to get, and where can I find it. Thanks for your help.

SuperG

[M11]

Newegg is our friend. Get a PCI IDE card.
http://www.newegg.com/app/ViewProductDesc.asp?description=16-102-027&depa=0

[Phoenix '97]

Some PCI IDE controller cards don't really like optical drives on them, ie, my Promise Ultra 66 card. The drives would work but the read/write speed would be limited or some programs wouldn't work with them properly. I bought a Silicon Image 0680 Ultra 133 controller that has no problem with optical drives.
If possible, connect a secondary hard drive to the controller.
If you're going to buy through NewEgg, try this one if you will be using optical drives on the controller:
http://www.newegg.com/app/ViewProductDesc.asp?description=15-150-022&depa=0

[SuperG]

Some PCI IDE controller cards don't really like optical drives on them, ie, my Promise Ultra 66 card. The drives would work but the read/write speed would be limited or some programs wouldn't work with them properly. I bought a Silicon Image 0680 Ultra 133 controller that has no problem with optical drives.
If possible, connect a secondary hard drive to the controller.
If you're going to buy through NewEgg, try this one if you will be using optical drives on the controller:
http://www.newegg.com/app/ViewProductDesc.asp?description=15-150-022&depa=0

The PCI IDE card may need optical drives on it, so I think I should go with the SI card. However, I do have a question. Is there anything wrong with this product? http://www.akida.net/.sc/ms/dd/1079459098962078/0/nc/Computer%2520Hardware--Controller%2520Cards/165/PCI%2520ATA%2520100%5E2F133%2520IDE%2520Raid%2520Controller% 2520Card

It says the SI 0680 controller as well. And it is $20 cheaper than Neweggs card. Is there much difference? Thanks.

SuperG

[SuperG]

Can anyone tell me the diff., with what I posted above. Thanks.

[Phoenix '97]

Ah that one looks to be the same one I have, except coloured a bit differently.
It's still a Sil 0680 card. Yeah I'd go with that one if you can get it for that cheap. :)

[Paragon]

I think the latest TX2 cards from Promise can take ATAPI devices according to the specs. There are probably other cards that will take them.

Earlier cards don't really like them as them were not intended for optical devices.