I have a new 24" aluminum Intel iMac and can't keep my G4 any longer.
I have an older Epson 836XL large format scanner that I would like to keep using, rather than pony up $2K+ for a new one. It works just fine.
I've yet to find an adapter compatible with Macs that will allow you to use SCSI scanners or printers. Mass storage devices, yes. Other peripherals, no.
Does anyone know of one that works, either Firewire or USB?
Thanks.
~Kort
The documentation for "Vuescan", here:
http://www.hamrick.com/vuescan/vuescan.htm#macosx
specifically recommends this device, the Ratoc FR1SX. If you search for "FR1SX" and "Leopard" you'll find spotty reports, some saying it works, some saying it doesn't, and some in between. Your mileage will undoubtedly vary.
An off-the-wall suggestion would be to get the cheapest PC with a SCSI port you can find (or use your old G4, for that matter), configure SANE to share the scanner on the network, and use the OS X port of SANE/TWAIN to run the scanner without physically connecting it to your new iMac. It's a clunky thing to do if it's just you using the scanner, but if you have a home or office of potential users to share it with the idea might have merit.
--Peace
Hey, that is just the type of device I was looking for, if it works. I found another Ratoc converter for USB, but it does not support scanners and the like for OSX. Worth trying in any event. Thanks a lot Eudi!
~Kort
Good news everyone!
I bought it and installed it (with a 50 pin port adapter) and am pleased to say that the the Ratoc FR1SX is compatible with the Epson 836XL scanner using the latest VueScan software. And the optional power supply in not necessary. It took a few restarts and some playing with the supplied driver software supplied by Ratoc on a CD, but it does now work smoothly.
I am thrilled. It scans images beautifully, perhaps better than when attached to the old G4. And it is faster as well. For about $150 I know have a working 13x19 scanner instead of having to get a new one for $2000 or more.
So yes, there is a SCSI to Firewire adapter out there that works in OS 10.5.2.
Spread the good word...
~Kort
Hello. This appears to be JUST the info I've been looking for to allow me to ditch my old Blue&White G3 so I can hook my Epson 836XL to my newer Mac! Thanks so much for testing this out for the rest of us!
I was wondering if you could point me in the direction of the specific 50-pin port adapter you've been using so I could follow your lead to a T. Thanks very much for your help!
Best,
Jim
Hi Jim.
Glad I could help. I have to admit that over time I have found the set-up to be a little buggy, but I reset the FR1SX using the software that comes with it and I am again able to use the scanner.
I am not absolutely sure which exact 50 pin adapter I got, I'll check tonight. I'm pretty sure it is this one though: http://firewireshop.stores.yahoo.net/hig50ftocen5.html
Confirmed at home, yes, that is the right adapter. Good luck!
Confirmed at home, yes, that is the right adapter. Good luck!
Hey thanks SO much for the follow-up and new info! Very kind of you for doing that. I'll take the plunge and give it a shot despite possible bugs and report back (although it'll probably be a few weeks. Fingers crossed!)