IDE and DVD drive cabling problem

**bobjimwilly** · 06-24-2005, 12:27 PM

Having done a

for the topic at hand, unfortunately I don't think anyone has done something similar to my little project, so I will post this thread and hopefully not get flamed to much for being a complete n00b!

My carputer project is in my 1984 austin mini, and I have decided to put the mini computer in my boot(trunk

), as it will be closest there to my GPS mouse (on parcelshelf), invertor and battery (yes - battery IS in boot)

But I am wanting to put my dvd drive in the space where my head unit used to be - in my center console up front. So my question is, does anyone know if you should restrict the length of IDE cables between motherboards and devices and how long maximum should you extend IDE cables if "yes"?

Also, does anyone forsee any problems with extending a power cable from the power supply in my boot to the front of my car? (the length will be about 2 metres for both the power cable and IDE cables)

Thanks.

**ktritz** · 06-24-2005, 12:48 PM

Since it's just a DVD drive, you should consider converting to USB2, which can go ~15ft or so.

Ozy

**Wiredwrx** · 06-24-2005, 01:01 PM

Originally Posted by ktritz

Since it's just a DVD drive, you should consider converting to USB2, which can go ~15ft or so.

Ozy

Sorry, let me answer your questions first. IDE I think max is on the order of 12 inches. Certainly it is not more then 24 inches.

You should get a USB external enclosure. I believe USB is 5 or so meters (15 feet), and longer with an "active" cable or device.

Michael

**bobjimwilly** · 06-24-2005, 01:19 PM

thanks both for input.

btw on further searching I found this thread Laptop IDE to USB and think I'm gonna go for the USB>IDE method.

**DarquePervert** · 06-24-2005, 01:45 PM

Originally Posted by bobjimwilly

thanks both for input.

btw on further searching I found this thread Laptop IDE to USB and think I'm gonna go for the USB>IDE method.

Good search!
Way to go!

I like it when n00bs search and answer their own questions.

It gives me hope for the rest of them.

**Wiredwrx** · 06-24-2005, 01:55 PM

Originally Posted by bobjimwilly

thanks both for input.

btw on further searching I found this thread Laptop IDE to USB and think I'm gonna go for the USB>IDE method.

Yay. I should have said

and

instead of givign you the answers. I guess I was feeling "nice" today.

But ya, that is the way to go. Search, and ye shall find the answers.

Oh Ya, and check out my new CARPUTER book here.

Michael,
Author Extraordinair (I can't spell for ****)