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BootAble – FreeDOS boot testing freeware
To obtain direct, low-level access to a system's mass storage drives, SpinRite runs under a GRC-customized version of FreeDOS which has been modified to add compatibility with all file systems. In order to run SpinRite it must first be possible to boot FreeDOS.
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You'll need to use an add-on IDE adapter. But I've done that often and they work well. 
I would also get a bigger 12v power supply. I spoke with them and they confirmed that the only limitation to using a pair of large 3.5" SATA drives was the limitation of the power supply they provided by default.
I would also get a bigger 12v power supply. I spoke with them and they confirmed that the only limitation to using a pair of large 3.5" SATA drives was the limitation of the power supply they provided by default.
The Zimaboard is being delivered today. After the fact I ordered a PCIE WIFI adapter, which will be a few days yet. Not sure if it'll come in handy, but if I play with Windows or Linux on the Zimaboard it may. I also ordered the PC Power Button that you suggested to someone in another thread. I had to buy 50 of the right angle 2x7 14pin plugs to get the one I wanted.
I'm on Amazon looking at this PCIE >> IDE controller at the moment. I'm guessing it's probably fine for the purpose. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000YAX13Y/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1
I need another $12.54 for free shipping. Any suggestions?
I'm on Amazon looking at this PCIE >> IDE controller at the moment. I'm guessing it's probably fine for the purpose. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000YAX13Y/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1
I need another $12.54 for free shipping. Any suggestions?
I have this from many years ago. It comes with a power supply and has been a life saver a time or two.
SABRENT USB 3.0 to SATA/IDE 2.5/3.5/5.25-INCH Hard Drive Converter with Power Supply
What is beefy enough? My unit came with a 12V 3A (36W) power supply. I did order the double SATA connector, so I guess I want to know what's the worst case if I wanted to run SpinRite 7 with two SATA drives connected? After some Googling, I am left with a spinning rust drive averages less than 10W (around 6W maybe) BUT can peak up to 30W during spin up. And then for SSDs I saw this from Sabrent: A SATA SSD will usually be below 4W maximum power consumption with lower-end NVMe usually around 3.5W and higher-end up to 8.5W or more with a peak above 10W for high-end consumer SSDs. So I would say a beefy power supply should supply 75 to 100W just to be safe?
I think that's right. The one I'm using is this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PWZQ33N/. 10A at 12v, so 120W. Spins up a pair of 3.5" SATA drives.
I just realized Steve that the power supply you're talking about is to be plugged into the Zimaboard, replacing the one that came with it. The one I linked to above is a power supply with a 4-pin output designed to be plugged directly into the IDE drive.
So then you must have a SATA power (from the Zimaboard) to IDE power (to the hard drive) converter cable? Or are you getting the power via the PCIE interface?
So then you must have a SATA power (from the Zimaboard) to IDE power (to the hard drive) converter cable? Or are you getting the power via the PCIE interface?
yes, but You have to buy the adapter. I use power supply from external hard drive adapter to power up drive separately.
Just too make it easier.
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