What is the difference between single-ended and differential SCSI?
Single-ended and differential are two methods of placing SCSI signals on the cabling. Single-ended uses one wire driven against ground and the signal is the voltage difference between that wire and ground. The differential interface drives two wires. The signal is the voltage difference between the two wires. Single-ended and differential are not directly compatible. (It should be noted that HVD and LVD are also not directly compatible). They can be interconnected by the use of a SCSI expander called a Single-ended to Differential Converter. Single-ended cable lengths are 6 to 1.5 meters (20 to 5 ft), decreasing with increasing data throughput, while differential (HVD and LVD) offers cable lengths to 25 meters (82 ft), regardless of the speed of the bus.
