These are circuit boards that convert between the SCSI and ATAPI/IDE protocols, allowing a system to communicate with an ATAPI/IDE device via a SCSI channel. They are typically sold for use with PC hardware; however, since they do not require any modifications to host software, there is no reason that they cannot be used on other systems.
We have performed extensive testing on two converters, the IDSC21-E from I-O Data and the AEC7720U from ACARD Technology, using them to read from and write to DVD recorders, and have found no problems with either. We are happy to recommend both.