[iansmith]

In order to properly identify an SCSI device, the operating system must send a TUR (Test Unit Ready) command to the device. In case of a hard disk, this will cause the motor to start if it wasn't started, and report its parameters. If the operation fails (for example because the disk has not been able to spin up correctly), no parameters gets returned and the disk can not be used.

With such an old disk, it is very likely that the spindle can not reach its nominal speed fast enough. You might want to check that the power applied to the disk is correct; also you might want to gently rock the disk (while not powered on) in case something is stuck inside.

I can hear the disk spinning when I power it up, but no head movement. I can't tell if it's spinning at full speed or not, but the hum is very even. I checked the voltages while it's running and they are right at 5v and 12v and the amp draw matches the idle current the specs list. I think I am giving it enough power but can't know for sure.

I've used the sg3-util package as suggested to try and get the drive to fully spin up. I just tried sg_turs and it reports the same information immediately. Drive makes no noise. I don't see any power fluctuations when I send those commands.

Would termination be an issue? The drive itself has no terminators, I've tried it with and without a terminated device after the drive with the same results. From what I recall, bad termination means drives simply don't show up. I can mount other SCSI devices on the chain so I know communication is working.

I remember when Seagate had problems with their drives, I had to whack a few on the side when they were trying to spin up to get them going but not going to do that to this one, heh. The platters are clearly spinning so the heads aren't stuck anywhere.

I have a SCSI2SD device I can use to boot the Iris if it's still operational and I assume I can download installation media somewhere. Still, I'd like to get the drive copied so I'll continue exploring options.