Innocard
Innocard PCIe x8 Gen4 to SFF-8673 gender changer
Converts a PCIe x8 Gen 4 link to dual SFF-8673 Mini SAS HD ports with an integrated ReDriver, clock buffer and ESD protection for 16 GT/s operation
- Changer TypePCIe Gen4
- PCIe 4.0 at 16GT/s for high-speed data links
- Built-in ReDriver extends 8-lane signals over longer cables
- SFF-8673 dual-port connector enables flexible x4 bifurcation
- On-board clock buffer and SMBus repeater maintain signal integrity
- 3V input with TVS and load-switch protection safeguards controller
PCIe x8 Gen4 Adapter
This Innocard adapter converts a PCIe x8 Gen4 slot into two SFF-8673 Mini SAS HD connectors. It includes a built-in ReDriver controller that extends 16 GT/s differential signals across eight lanes. The card draws 3.3 V input power with TVS and load-switch protection for the controller. A clock buffer and SMBus circuitry support longer cable runs and out-of-band management.
Internal Storage Connectivity
The card suits builders adding internal SAS or U.2 storage through a standard PCIe slot. It supports bifurcation into two x4 links for flexible topologies. It is not for users who require an external cable interface or a different connector type. It is also not for systems lacking a free x8 electrical slot or 3.3 V auxiliary power.
SFF-8673 Dual Port
The deciding specification is the dual SFF-8673 4X interface driven by the PCIe 4.0 x8 ReDriver. Verify that your target drives and cables use the SFF-8673 Mini SAS HD pinout before purchasing.
Highlights
- PCIe 4.0 at 16GT/s for high-speed data links
- Built-in ReDriver extends 8-lane signals over longer cables
- SFF-8673 dual-port connector enables flexible x4 bifurcation
- On-board clock buffer and SMBus repeater maintain signal integrity
- 3V input with TVS and load-switch protection safeguards controller
Specifications
| Changer Type | PCIe Gen4 |
|---|
Questions about this item
Does this adapter need a PCIe x8 Gen4 slot and a 3.3 V supply to operate?
Yes, it plugs into a PCIe x8 Gen4 slot and draws 3.3 V through the connector with built-in TVS and load-switch protection.
What is the most common mistake when installing the SFF-8673 cables?
The board bifurcates the 8 lanes into two x4 links, so each SFF-8673 port must connect to a separate x4 endpoint; plugging both cables into the same controller port breaks the link.
Which on-board components may need attention after long-term use?
The ReDriver, 100 MHz clock buffer, SMBus switch at address 70, I/O expander at address 20 and PERST# buffer gate are the active silicon that could require replacement if they degrade.
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