Storage performance comparison: For accessing large video files rapidly on a legacy workstation, which storage option typically offers the fastest sustained throughput?

Introduction / Context:
Video editing and playback stress storage I/O, especially with large sequential reads and writes. Historically, workstation-class systems leveraged faster buses and multi-drive arrays to achieve required throughput and reliability.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We compare legacy storage: optical, IDE/EIDE, and SCSI hard drives.
• Workload is large video files, implying high sustained data rates.
• We assume typical drives from the same era.

Concept / Approach:

SCSI historically provided higher bus bandwidth, better command queuing, multi-device support, and enterprise-grade drive mechanics, resulting in superior sustained transfer rates compared with contemporary IDE/EIDE and far exceeding optical media. Therefore, SCSI hard drives are the preferred option for speed in that context.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Benchmarks from the era consistently show SCSI outperforming IDE/EIDE in sustained transfer and access times, especially in multi-user or heavy I/O scenarios.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Optical: Limited by disc speed and seek latency.
• IDE/EIDE: Consumer-oriented; slower command processing versus SCSI peers.
• None of the above: Incorrect, as SCSI is a valid, superior choice here.

Common Pitfalls:

Confusing bus potential with actual drive mechanics; assuming modern SATA behavior when discussing legacy IDE/SCSI performance.

Final Answer:

SCSI hard drives