Bring back the DB-19 hard disk port
The DB-19 connector on the Atari ST family hard disk (ACSI) port has not been manufactured for years. At the same time, most current ACSI devices moved to the more available 2x10 IDC-20 header. This adapter bridges both worlds so you can keep using modern storage on original hardware.
The kit gives you a small adapter board with a DB-19 male plug on one side and an IDC-20 header on the other, plus a 30 cm flat ribbon cable. Plug the adapter into the classic ACSI port of your Atari ST, STE, Mega ST or Mega STE, run the ribbon cable to your device, and you are ready to go.
What it solves
- No more DB-19 sourcing: Reuse the original ACSI port without hunting for the discontinued DB-19 connector.
- Works with modern devices: Talk to ACSI2STM and Satan Disk units that expose the IDC-20 connector.
- Flexible placement: The 30 cm ribbon cable lets you position the device wherever it fits best inside or next to the machine.
- Clean signal path: A direct passive adapter with no active components in the way.
Kit contents
- 1x DB19-to-IDC20 adapter board (DB-19 male plug plus IDC-20 header).
- 1x flat ribbon cable, 2x10 pins, 30 cm long (IDC-20 to IDC-20).
How it works
- Plug the adapter’s DB-19 male connector into the ACSI hard disk port of your Atari ST, STE, Mega ST or Mega STE.
- Connect the 30 cm ribbon cable between the adapter’s IDC-20 header and the IDC-20 header on your device.
- Your ACSI2STM or Satan Disk is now linked to the classic DB-19 bus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which computers does this adapter work with?
Any Atari machine that uses the classic DB-19 ACSI hard disk port. That covers the Atari ST, STE, Mega ST and Mega STE.
Which devices can I connect to it?
Devices that expose a 2x10 IDC-20 ACSI connector, such as the ACSI2STM and the Satan Disk. Compatibility with hardware from other manufacturers cannot be guaranteed. Use at your own risk.
Why would I need this adapter?
The original DB-19 connector is no longer produced, so modern ACSI devices ship with an IDC-20 header instead. This adapter lets those devices talk to the DB-19 port that your Atari still has.
How long is the ribbon cable?
The included flat ribbon cable is 30 cm long, with a 2x10 IDC-20 female connector on each end.
Is the adapter active or passive?
It is a passive adapter. It only remaps the DB-19 pins to the IDC-20 header, with no active electronics in the signal path.
Is this product for me?
This is a homebrew product designed for hobbyists with a keen interest in experimenting with their computers. If you seek a seamless, Apple-like experience, it will not meet your expectations.
More information
- 3D-printed enclosure: A community enclosure for this adapter is available on Printables, so you can 3D-print a case for it yourself. It is not sold by SidecarTridge.
