Re: [Sheflug] SATA disk connectors

[Gary Stimson <bulk@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Peter Humphrey wrote:
> Hi all,
> 
> I'm considering adding a couple of WD Raptor X SATA disks to my workstation, 
> but I'm cautious about the signal connectors. Dabs's Web site says that 
> these disks have a "22-position serial ATA plug". As far as I know, the 
> standard SATA connector has only 7 pins, so what is this reference to 22? 
> Other disks on the same site are also shown as having 22 "positions".

The 22-pin connectors are a normal 7-pin one plus a
separate-but-integrated 15-pin power connector.

The drive may also have a Molex power socket, in which case you can use
your normal 7-pin SATA cable and a Molex connector from your PSU.

Otherwise you can get 22-pin SATA cables that go to a 7-pin connector
and separate power socket.

The benefit of the 22-pin connector is that it's very good for hot-swap
drive caddies. The connectors are in a standard position so the caddy
slides in and the drive makes contact with a plug in the chassis. No
additional connectors are needed on the caddy itself. And I think the
same connector is also used for SAS drives, but don't quote me on that.

Gary

PS The WD Raptor is a very good choice of hard disk.

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