New iPass+ HD System from Molex supports next generation SAS 2.1 requirements

“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 PCB 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 centres. 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 PCI Express* 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,” added Neer.

The introduction of multi-plugging provides the designer 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 reduces the manufacturing part numbers for the host connector and cabling options. Electronic keying is accommodated through the new sidebands and signals provided.