SAS (Serial Attached SCSI) connectors come in various types, each designed for specific applications and configurations. Here are the main types of SAS connectors and their typical uses:

 

1. SFF-8087

Description: The SFF-8087 connector is a 36-pin internal Mini-SAS connector used to connect a SAS or SATA controller to internal drives.

Applications: Commonly used in servers and storage arrays to connect multiple internal hard drives or SSDs to a RAID controller or motherboard.

Data Channels: Supports up to 4 data channels, allowing connections to 4 drives in a single cable.

 

2. SFF-8088

Description: The SFF-8088 connector is a 36-pin external Mini-SAS connector used for connecting external storage enclosures to a host system.

Applications: Used for external storage solutions and connecting external drive arrays to servers or workstations.

Data Channels: Also supports up to 4 data channels, similar to SFF-8087 but intended for external connections.

 

3. Mini-SAS HD (High-Density)

1> SFF-8643 (Internal)

Description: The SFF-8643 is a 36-pin internal Mini-SAS HD connector designed to provide higher performance and greater density compared to the older Mini-SAS connectors.

Applications: Used in modern servers and storage systems for connecting internal drives or RAID controllers.

Data Channels: Supports up to 4 data channels with improved performance over the older SFF-8087.

2> SFF-8644 (External)

Description: The SFF-8644 is a 36-pin external Mini-SAS HD connector, providing high-density connections for external storage devices.

Applications: Used for connecting external storage arrays or enclosures to a server or workstation.

Data Channels: Supports up to 4 data channels with higher data rates than the older SFF-8088.

 

4. SFF-8470

Description: The SFF-8470 connector is an older type of SAS connector used for connecting multiple drives, typically in a backplane configuration.

Applications: Used in storage arrays and server backplanes to connect drives to a SAS controller.

Data Channels: Can support multiple channels, depending on the configuration.

 

5. SFF-8471

Description: The SFF-8471 is a 26-pin connector used for connecting SAS controllers to storage backplanes.

Applications: Often found in older enterprise storage systems and server backplanes.

Data Channels: Designed to support multiple data channels, enabling connections to multiple drives.

 

Summary

SAS connectors are essential for ensuring high-speed, reliable connections between storage devices and controllers. The key types include:

1> SFF-8087: Internal, used for connecting internal drives.

2> SFF-8088: External, used for connecting external storage devices.

3> Mini-SAS HD (SFF-8643 and SFF-8644): Modern, high-density internal and external connectors for improved performance and higher data transfer rates.

4> SFF-8470 and SFF-8471: Older connectors used for various SAS configurations, typically in enterprise environments.

Understanding these connector types helps in selecting the right cable and connector for specific storage and data transfer needs.