Q: What is SATA?
A: SATA cables are the new connector type that is replacing the older Parallel ATA interfaces. SATA cables allow for faster data transfer rates and offer a direct connection between the hard drive and the motherboard. SATA cables are longer and thinner than its predecessor which uses short fragile and bulky cables. This allows for a much better performance from the SATA cables.
Q: What is the difference between a SATA Cable and an eSATA cable?
A: SATA and eSATA cables are very similar and they operate at the same speeds of up to 3Gb/s. The main difference between the two is that SATA cables are for internal use and eSATA cables are for external use. The eSATA cables are built with shielded cable so that they can withstand an external environment and be used more ruggedly.
Q: What is the difference between the SATA cables the SAS InfiniBand cables you sell?
A: SAS InfiniBand cables are backwards compatible with SATA cables. This means you are able to connect SATA drives to SAS backplanes. SAS cables are more costly and are often used in more critical server applications. The SAS cables allow for higher signal voltages so they can be much longer than SATA cables. This gives users more versatility when connecting applications.
Q: What are the maximum lengths for SATA eSATA and SAS InfiniBand cables?
A: SATA cables are no longer than 1 meter (3.3 feet) in length. eSATA cables can be longer due to their rugged design. They are typically as long as 2 meters (6 feet) in length. This allows them to be able to reach from the floor to the desktop. SAS InfiniBand cables can go the longest distances. They can be up to 10 meters in length.
Q: I am looking to connect my external hard drive to my motherboard. Which is better; an eSATA or USB cable?
A: eSATA cables will support faster transfer speeds at least three times as fast as USB cables. They are more reliable and offer a much better performance than their alternatives.
Q: I have two hard drives on my computer? What do I need to connect these two?
A: SATA cables can be used to connect your two hard drives together. After you have them connected you can adjust the SATA ports on your hard drives and decide which hard drive you want to be the primary one and which you want to be the secondary or back-up hard drive.
