OT : IDE to USB?

[Michael Allen]

I want to convert an IDE cable for a floppy drive into a usb plug in. I know I can buy cables for this, but i'd rather solder up my own. I've looked for some info on it but I can't find any. Does anyone know if it can be done?

[Claus H]

Shugart floopydisc interface  and USB interface are completely different you can't just wire a Floppy for USB..

You can buy external Floopy drives for USB..

Claus H

[Michael Allen]

What about this

http://www.cwol.com/usb/usb-2-ide-adapter-ud200.htm

This is what I want....

[yano]

good luck, there's probably a load of active electronics in there (its a USB device). Its the only adapter cable i've seen that requires drivers....

Something like that would be better suited to firewire though, I'd say.

[Michael Allen]

Hmm, guess I'll have to purchase something then...

[travissk]

You can either get an external enclosure, or just go for a USB floppy drive as someone up there suggested. That might be the easier (and cheaper?) option.

[Gilles C]

Hi, I bought 2 of these boxes from Belkin, and paid around $59.00 CAD for one that is only USB for 3 1q/4" drives and $89.00 CAD for another one that is USB/Firewire for up to 5 1/4" drives.

http://catalog.belkin.com/IWCatProductPage.process?Merchant_Id=&Section_Id=2%2000433&pcount=&Product_Id=125643&Section.Section_Path=//Root/USB/USB2%200

And they work very well.

I can change the drives I use anytime. Very useful.

That could be the best option.

Gilles

[Claus H]

If you want the "DIY" solution.. But this IS AN IDE NOT A FLOPPY CONTROLLER They are not interchangeable!!

http://www.necel.com/usb/en/product/upd720130.html

The "Plug" http://www.cwol.com/usb/usb-2-ide-adapter-ud200.htm contains a floppy controller chip powered by the USB

NO HARM INTENDED !!

Claus H

[Claus H]

Just found this.. Floppy controller to USB but not exactly a "DIY" Project !!  

http://www.smsc.com/main/catalog/usb97cfdc2_01.html

Later...

Claus H

[Michael Allen]

Wow thanks guys! So there's no way to hardwire convert IDE to USB? Dang, guess I'll be paying.

Gilles that box is rad! I might spring for one of those just because it is a very cool idea!