STOP Msg: 0x0000007B w/ Quantum Empire Drive and Adaptec 2940

• Microsoft Windows NT Workstation version 3.5
• Microsoft Windows NT Server version 3.5

SYMPTOMS

Installation of Windows NT 3.5 on a Quantum Empire hard drive connected to an Adaptec controller fails with the following STOP Message:

   STOP 0x0000007B
   INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE

CAUSE

The STOP Message occurs because the Adaptec controller is configured for a maximum synchronous transfer rate (Max Sync Xfer Rate) of 10 MB (megabytes) per second. According to Quantum technical support, the error is due to the clock on the Adaptec controller that allows the adapter to negotiate a Max Sync Xfer Rate of 10.6 MB/sec. The digital filter on the hard drive returns an error to the operating system because it is set for a Max Sync Xfer Rate of 10.2 MB/sec.

WORKAROUND

There is updated firmware for the Quantum Empire drive which fools the SCSI controller into a connection of 8 MB/sec. when it is set for 10 MB/sec. The firmware upgrade may be obtained from Quantum by calling their technical support line at (800) 826-8022.

You can also work around this problem by setting the Max Sync Xfer Rate on the Adaptec controller at or below 8 MB/sec. or setting Initiate Sync Negotiation to "No."

The products included here are manufactured by Adaptec and Quantum, vendors independent of Microsoft; we make no warranty, implied or otherwise, regarding these product's performance or reliability.