External I/O Connector meets Next-Gen SAS 2.1 requirements.
Press Release Summary:
Referenced as mini-SAS HD in SAS 2.1 standard, iPass+(TM) High Density (HD) system provides 8x as well as 4x cable-plugging options to promote accelerated data, bandwidth capacity, and design flexibility. Integrated 8 sideband signals per 4x port enable active copper and optical cables as well as active pluggable modules for extended-length applications in data centers. For flexibility, multi-plugging capability enables one 8x plug or two 4x plugs to be accommodated by same 8x connector.
Original Press Release:
New iPass+(TM) HD System from Molex Supports Next Generation SAS 2.1 Requirements
The Low-Profile Interface Uses Less PCB Real Estate While Doubling Data Rates and Bandwidth Compared to the Previous Version
LISLE, Ill. November 16, 2009- Molex Incorporated (NASDAQ: MOLX and MOLXA) introduces the iPass+(TM) High Density (HD) system, referenced as mini-SAS HD in the SAS 2.1 standard, to meet SAS next-generation speed and density requirements. This innovative system provides 8x as well as 4x cable-plugging options offering customers faster data, more bandwidth and more design flexibility.
"Molex's iPass+ HD technology will drive next-generation SAS solutions by providing increased bandwidth and port density," said Jay Neer, advanced technical market manager, industry standards, Molex Incorporated. "We designed the new system to use less beach front real estate while doubling data rates."
The iPass+ HD external input/output (I/O) connector includes eight sideband signals per 4x port. These additional signals enable active copper and optical cables, as well as active pluggable modules for extended-length applications in data centers. The new pinouts for iPass+ HD map easily to existing legacy products.
The reduced size of the iPass+ HD system provides additional real estate and beach front for system designers. A standard PCIe card can accept four current 4x mini-SAS connectors and a low-profile PCIe card accepts two 4x mini-SAS connectors. The new iPass+ HD will provide for four 4x ports on a low-profile PCIe card, doubling the port density on a low-profile PCIe card. "This is a significant step as server manufacturers are transitioning their enclosures to the smaller form-factor card," adds Neer.
The introduction of multi-plugging provides the capability to plug either one 8x plug or two 4x plugs into the same 8x connector, increasing the functionality of the solution. End users may not have to go buy a new cable.
The mechanical keys required in the current mini-SAS product have been eliminated, which reduce the manufacturing part numbers for the host connector and cabling options. Electronic keying is accommodated through the new sidebands and signals provided.
To learn more about the iPass+ HD system stop by the Molex booth 712 at the Super Computing conference (SC09), November 14-20 in Portland, Ore. or visit molex.com/link/iPassPlusHD.html.
About Molex Incorporated
Molex Incorporated is a 71-year-old global manufacturer of electronic, electrical and fiber optic interconnection systems. Based in Lisle, Illinois, USA, the company operates 43 manufacturing locations in 18 countries. The Molex website is www.molex.com.
