
Benefits of LVD Link
1-5
1.3 Benefits of LVD Link
The SYM53C896 supports LVD for SCSI, a signaling technology that
increases the reliability of SCSI data transfers over longer distances than
are supported by SE SCSI. The low current output of LVD allows the I/O
transceivers to be integrated directly onto the chip. LVD provides the
reliability of HVD SCSI without the added cost of external differential
transceivers. Ultra2 SCSI with LVD allows a longer SCSI cable and more
devices on the bus, with the same cables defined in the SCSI-3 Parallel
Interface standard for Fast-20 (Ultra SCSI). LVD provides a long-term
migration path to even faster SCSI transfer rates without compromising
signal integrity, cable length, or connectivity.
For backward compatibility to existing SE devices, the SYM53C896
features universal LVD Link transceivers that can support LVD SCSI, SE,
and HVD modes. The LVD Link technology also supports HVD signaling
in legacy systems, when external transceivers are connected to the
SYM53C896. This allows the SYM53C896 to be used in both legacy and
Ultra2 SCSI applications.
Table 1.1
Standard Cables
Maximum Bus Length, Meters
1
1. This parameter may be exceeded in point-to-point and engineered
applications.
2. LVD was not defined in the original SCSI standards for this speed. If
all devices on the bus support LVD, then 12-meter operation is
possible at this speed. However, if any device on the bus is SE only,
then the entire bus switches to SE mode, and the distances in the
SE column apply.
3. SE and high power differential are not defined at Ultra2 speeds.
STA Term
SE
LVD
Maximum
Devices
Wide Ultra SCSI
1.5
Note
2
8
Wide Ultra SCSI
3
Note
2
4
Wide Ultra2 SCSI
Note
3
12
16