What is SCSI?

SCSI stands for (S)mall (C)omputer (S)ystems (I)nterface. The official name of the SCSI standard is: ANSI X3.131 - 1986.

The SCSI interface is a local bus type interface for connecting multiple devices (up to eight), designated as either initiators (drivers) or targets (receivers).

There are two electrical alternatives for this standard:

1. Single-ended type and
2. Differential type

Single-ended and Differential devices are different and MAY NOT be mixed on the same bus; however, LVD (or 'Low Voltage Differential') SCSI can be used on the same SCSI bus with 'SE' type devices, if:

• Your SCSI card supports this; and
• You are using a multi-mode type terminator, sometimes designated as 'LVD/SE' type.

In a SCSI environment, devices are daisy - chained together using a common cable. Both ends of the cable must be terminated. All signals are common between all SCSI devices.