StarTech.com Mini-SAS Adapter - Dual SFF-8643 to SFF-8644 - 12Gbps

The StarTech.com Mini-SAS Adapter is a smart, high-performance solution designed for data centers, IT professionals, and DAS enthusiasts who need reliable external storage expansion from internal controller ports. This dual-port adapter converts two internal SFF-8643 connections on a SAS/SATA controller into two external SFF-8644 ports, enabling fast, direct access to external SAS or SATA drives and enclosures. With a 12Gbps transfer capability per channel, it preserves the speed required for demanding workloads such as media editing, virtualization, backups, data analytics, and large-scale archiving. The adapter’s compact form factor and the inclusion of both full-height and low-profile brackets ensure compatibility with a wide range of chassis sizes—from full-height server racks to compact workstations and DAS enclosures. This flexibility makes it an excellent choice for server rooms, office IT closets, or any environment where storage density and easy expansion are priorities.

• High-speed, dual-channel performance: Each external SFF-8644 port delivers up to 12Gbps, ensuring robust bandwidth for simultaneous external storage connections and minimizing bottlenecks in RAID arrays, backplanes, or DAS configurations.
• Versatile storage expansion: Convert two internal SFF-8643 ports into two external SFF-8644 ports, enabling seamless connection to external SAS or SATA drives and enclosures without sacrificing internal controller efficiency.
• Brackets for broad compatibility: Includes both full-height and low-profile brackets so you can fit the adapter into standard 19-inch racks or compact chassis, making it ideal for data centers, small servers, and workstations alike.
• Reliable construction and signal integrity: Durable connectors and shielded design reduce EMI and signal loss, helping maintain stable links in demanding environments and ensuring consistent performance across diverse storage setups.
• Plug-and-play compatibility: Designed to work with a wide range of SAS/SATA controllers and backplanes; no specialized drivers are typically required, allowing straightforward integration into existing storage architectures and workflows.

Technical Details of StarTech.com Mini-SAS Adapter - Dual SFF-8643 to SFF-8644 - with Full and Low-Profile Brackets - 12Gbps

• Interface: Converts two internal SFF-8643 ports to two external SFF-8644 ports for direct connections to external SAS/SATA storage devices.
• Speed: Supports up to 12Gbps per channel, preserving high-bandwidth performance for two external storage paths.
• Brackets: Includes both a full-height and a low-profile bracket to maximize compatibility with different chassis forms and rack setups.
• Cabling compatibility: Works with standard SFF-8643 internal cables and SFF-8644 external cables to connect to DAS enclosures, backplanes, or external storage arrays.
• Compatibility: Designed for use with a broad range of SAS/SATA controllers and external storage devices; suitable for data-intensive tasks such as media workflows, virtualization, backups, and archiving.

how to install StarTech.com Mini-SAS Adapter - Dual SFF-8643 to SFF-8644 - with Full and Low-Profile Brackets - 12Gbps

• Power down the system and disconnect all power sources before handling internal components to prevent electrostatic discharge or equipment damage.
• Identify the two internal SFF-8643 ports on your SAS/SATA controller card. Prepare appropriate SFF-8643 cables that match your controller’s connectors and the adapter’s internal ports.
• Carefully align and seat the adapter’s internal connectors onto the two SFF-8643 ports, ensuring a firm, secure connection and avoiding any misalignment that could damage the ports or cables.
• Connect two external SFF-8644 cables from the adapter to your external SAS/SATA devices, DAS enclosure, or backplane according to your storage layout and performance needs. Use high-quality cables to maintain signal integrity over longer runs.
• Attach the included bracket(s)—full-height or low-profile—to the adapter and secure them in the chassis with the appropriate screws. Ensure the adapter is mounted in a stable position and does not flex under cable tension.
• Power on the system, then verify that the operating system and the storage controller software recognize the external storage paths. Check link status, drive enumeration, and, if applicable, RAID configurations to confirm optimal performance.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What does this StarTech Mini-SAS Adapter do?
• A: It converts two internal SFF-8643 ports on a SAS/SATA controller into two external SFF-8644 ports, enabling direct connections to external SAS or SATA storage devices while preserving high-speed 12Gbps throughput per channel.
• Q: Which drives can I connect with this adapter?
• A: External SAS and SATA drives or enclosures that use the SFF-8644 interface can be connected through this adapter for expanded storage capacity and flexible DAS configurations.
• Q: Do I need special drivers to use the adapter?
• A: In most cases, no special driver is required—the adapter works with standard SAS/SATA controller interfaces and backplanes. Always verify compatibility with your OS and controller documentation.
• Q: What brackets are included and why?
• A: The package includes both a full-height and a low-profile bracket, enabling installation in a variety of chassis types—from standard 19-inch racks to compact systems—without needing separate purchases.
• Q: Is this suitable for data centers or home setups?
• A: Yes. Its modular design and high-speed performance make it appropriate for data centers, enterprise storage expansions, backup appliances, media editing setups, virtualization hosts, and high-density DAS configurations in both professional and home environments.