SATA Connectors Accelerate Storage Chores

Promising smaller, faster, and more reliable storage interfaces than parallel ATA connectors, the Serial Advanced Technology Attachment (SATA) connector family are designed on a 1.27-mm, in-line contact pitch and interface with standard 2.5" and 3.5" drives. The components have two interface segments: signal and power. In the signal segment, SATA signals are condensed into a seven-contact format. Signal connectors rely on two differential pairs that are surrounded and separated by three ground contacts (G-SS-G-SS-G). Two pairs serve as transmit and receive contacts, while the three grounds also function as EMLB contacts, making the connectors hot pluggable. The components are available in a seven-position, stand-alone version in a variety of configurations with PCB attachments or in combination with power. For pricing, call 3M ELECTRONICS, Austin, TX. (512) 984-1800.