Enterprise Hard Drive Buying Guide: SAS vs SATA, 7.2K vs 10K, CMR vs SMR
Spinning drives still run most backup targets, file servers, and NAS builds, and the market is full of...
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About server storage cables
Internal SAS, Mini-SAS and SATA cables that link server RAID controllers to backplanes and drives. We source the right cable for your server model and controller from Doha; ask with the model and connector types.
Storage cables connect a server's RAID controller or motherboard ports to the drive backplane, or directly to drives. The main types are Mini-SAS and Mini-SAS HD cables for SAS controllers, breakout cables that split one controller port into several drive connections, and SATA cables. Many servers also use cables made for one model, with their own vendor part numbers.
This collection is for anyone adding a controller, fitting an extra drive cage or replacing a damaged cable. We source storage cables to order.
- Common connectors
- SFF-8087, SFF-8643, SATA
- Used between
- Controller, backplane, drives
- Supply
- Sourced to order
Common connector types
| Connector | Also called | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| SFF-8087 | Mini-SAS (internal) | Older 6Gb/s SAS controllers and backplanes |
| SFF-8643 | Mini-SAS HD (internal) | 12Gb/s SAS controllers and backplanes |
| SATA | 7-pin SATA data | Single SATA drives and motherboard ports |
| Breakout | Fan-out cable | One Mini-SAS port to four SAS or SATA drives |
External SAS cables for disk shelves and tape use different connectors and are a separate item. Network cabling is in network cables.
What to tell us
Cable length and routing inside a chassis are tight, and a generic cable with the right plugs may still be too short or foul the airflow shroud. Send the server model and generation, the controller and the backplane, or the part number on the old cable. A photo of both ends helps. Related parts sit in RAID controllers and server backplanes.
Sourcing cables through ServerDove
Message +974 5521 2108 on WhatsApp or email sales@serverdove.com with the details above, or use the contact page. The team will confirm the correct cable and quote it, and can fit it with the controller or backplane as part of an installation service.
Storage Cables: frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Mini-SAS and Mini-SAS HD?
Mini-SAS, the SFF-8087 connector, is the older internal SAS connector found on many 6Gb/s controllers and backplanes. Mini-SAS HD, SFF-8643, is smaller and is used on 12Gb/s SAS equipment. The two do not plug into each other, although conversion cables with one of each end exist.
What is a SAS breakout cable?
It is a cable with one Mini-SAS or Mini-SAS HD plug on the controller end and four separate drive connectors on the other. It lets one controller port run four drives directly when there is no backplane. Check whether the drive ends are SAS or SATA style for your drives.
Why do some servers need model-specific cables?
Inside a server, the cable length, angle of the plugs and routing path are fixed by the chassis design. Server makers therefore use cables made for particular models, with their own part numbers. A generic cable with the right connectors may not reach or may block airflow.
How do I find the right cable for my server?
Send us the server model, the RAID controller and the backplane, or the part number printed on the existing cable. Photos of both connectors help. The team will confirm the correct cable before quoting, so you do not order a cable that will not fit.
Do I need a new cable when I change RAID controller?
Often. A newer controller may use Mini-SAS HD connectors where the old one used Mini-SAS, and the port position can change the length needed. Tell us the old and new controllers and the server model, and we will confirm the cables required.
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