Converting a Desktop SCSI2SD for PowerBook Use

[360alaska]

Hello all,

A big problem I think the community is facing is finding replacement drive for SCSI PowerBooks.  While Michael McMaster has a SCSI2SD specifically for Powerbooks it’s not widely available and ordering it directly from him is a bit expensive when including shipping from Australia. With the release of the V5 boards it’s conceivably possible to adapt the desktop V5 board into a laptop with an adapter since it has the same length as a 2.5" drive and is a bit smaller width wise. My idea is to make an adapter that can be soldered over the SCSI contacts on the bottom and bring the signals over to a 2.5 SCSI Connector. Part one of this project will be this adapter which will make the scsi connector vertical so I can place a top hat board over that and add a 40 pin connector sitting over the SD slot basically. 

 

[NJRoadfan]

The width of the SCSI2SD adapter is the same as the max length of a 2.5" drive. You can stack an adapter and it should still be no thicker than a real 2.5" drive, connection via a right angle header or a really short 50pin IDC cable. Power can be done from the +5v line to the SCSI2SD's term power pin. A diode is very likely needed on the line. The 2.5" SCSI pin out would be on the short edge. I suppose I picture would help, but my paint skills are lacking....

 

[360alaska]

A big challenge and also the reason I will have to use two boards is that they don't make a female right angle 50 pin connector.

 

[NJRoadfan]

I found that out during my own investigation. A very short cable is the best cheap solution around the problem. You can use the existing holes on the SCSI2SD for plastic standoffs. Luckily old 2.5" drives were pretty thick height-wise compared to modern drives, so clearance of the adapter sandwich shouldn't be a problem.