Server SAS cables connect drives, backplanes and RAID or HBA controllers inside servers and workstations. Our range includes over 180 cables with Mini SAS, SFF-8654 and MCIO connectors, from brands such as INLINE, Supermicro, Delock and Intel.
How to choose a server SAS cable
Connector type. Start by identifying the connectors on your controller and on the drive cage or backplane. Our range includes SFF-8654 8i, Mini SAS SFF-8087, MCIO x8 (SFF-TA-1016) and MCIO x4 cables. They differ physically and cannot be swapped, so check the exact marking in the motherboard or controller documentation.
Signal type. Mini SAS SFF-8087 is mostly found on older SAS and SATA hardware, while MCIO and SFF-8654 appear on newer platforms, where they can carry both SAS and PCIe (NVMe) drives. One connector type can carry different signals, so check the product description to see whether the cable is meant for SAS or NVMe.
Length. Most of the cables are 0.5 m, 0.75 m or 1 m long, with a few at 1.5 m and 2 m. Choose the shortest cable that reaches without strain: surplus loops block airflow inside the chassis, and SAS signals have length limits of their own.
Connector shape. Most of our cables have straight connectors, and angled ones are few. An angled connector helps when the board sits close to the chassis wall or a heatsink and a straight cable would have to bend sharply.
System compatibility. In Supermicro, Intel or HP Enterprise servers it is often worth choosing the same manufacturer's cable by part number, since backplane layouts and extra sideband signal pins can differ. INLINE or Delock cables work when the connector type and purpose match.
Brands we carry
- INLINE: a German brand of computer cables and connection accessories, with the largest number of cables in this category in our range.
- Supermicro: a maker of servers and server motherboards, whose cables are designed for its own chassis and backplanes.
- Delock: a maker of cables, adapters and computer accessories, with many connector combinations on offer.
- Intel: a maker of server boards and RAID controllers, with cables made for Intel server systems.
- Broadcom and Areca: makers of RAID and HBA controllers, and their cables suit those controllers.
- ICY DOCK: a maker of hot-swap drive cages and trays.
- Inter-Tech: a maker of PC and server chassis.
- HP Enterprise: the maker of ProLiant servers, with cables made for those systems.
Also in our range: Bluelan, Lanberg, Storesys.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Mini SAS SFF-8087 and SFF-8654 cables?
SFF-8087 is an older 36-pin Mini SAS connector, while SFF-8654 (also called SlimSAS) is smaller and newer, built for higher data rates. The two are physically incompatible, so replacing a server or controller usually means replacing the cable too. Our range includes both types.
Can I connect SATA drives with a SAS cable?
Yes, SAS controllers generally support SATA drives too, provided the cable and backplane use the right connectors. A common solution is a fan-out cable that splits one Mini SAS connector into four drive connectors. Check the connectors listed at both ends of the cable before you buy.
What length of SAS cable does a server need?
Most servers need a cable between 0.5 and 1 m. Measure the route from the controller to the backplane, including bends, and add a small margin. Most cables in our range are 0.5 m, 0.75 m or 1 m long.
Can an MCIO cable be used for NVMe drives?
Yes, as long as the cable is meant for PCIe signals and the connectors at both ends match the board and the backplane. MCIO x8 carries eight PCIe lanes, so it often serves two NVMe drives at four lanes each. Our range includes MCIO x4 and x8 cables, but make sure your server supports NVMe.
