Server SAS cables

Server SAS cables connect RAID controllers, host bus adapters, backplanes, expanders and drives inside servers and storage systems, and link external drive enclosures. The range suits system builders, IT departments and anyone replacing or extending storage cabling. Leading brands include DELOCK, INLINE, Supermicro and Intel, alongside ICY DOCK, Areca and HP Enterprise.

How to choose a server SAS cable

Connector type. Check the ports on both ends before anything else. Older controllers and backplanes commonly use SFF-8087 (mini SAS), newer ones use SFF-8643 (mini SAS HD), and external ports are usually SFF-8088 or SFF-8644. Some recent servers use SlimSAS (SFF-8654), so read the port labels or the board manual rather than guessing from the controller's age.

Cable layout. A straight cable joins one multi-lane port to another, for example a controller to a backplane. A breakout (fan-out) cable splits one port into four separate drive connectors, which suits drives without a backplane. Breakout cables are directional: a forward cable runs from a controller or board to the drives, while a reverse cable runs from individual board ports to a backplane connector.

Internal or external. Internal cables stay inside the chassis and are usually fairly short. External cables link a server to a separate drive shelf or tape device, so they need shielded, locking connectors and enough length to reach the next rack unit.

Speed rating. SAS has moved from 6 Gb/s to 12 Gb/s and 24 Gb/s per lane. A cable rated for a newer generation will normally work with slower devices, but the reverse is not guaranteed, so match the rating to the fastest component in the chain.

Length and routing. Measure the path through the chassis, including bends around fans and drive cages. Pick the shortest cable that reaches without strain, because shorter runs keep the signal cleaner and airflow clearer. Check whether the cable has a sideband lead for drive activity and fault LEDs if your backplane uses one.

Server SAS cable brands we carry

• DELOCK: a German brand known for cables, adapters and interface products, with many SAS and SATA connection variants.
• INLINE: a cable and accessory brand sold widely in Europe, offering internal and external SAS cables in several lengths.
• Supermicro: a server and motherboard maker whose cables are made to fit its own chassis, backplanes and boards.
• Intel: a maker of server boards and storage components, with cables designed for its own systems and RAID modules.
• Inter-Tech: known for PC cases and server chassis, so its cables suit rackmount builds.
• ICY DOCK: specialises in hot-swap drive bays and backplane enclosures, with cables matched to those products.
• Areca: a RAID controller manufacturer, with cables intended for its controller ports.
• Broadcom and Microchip: Broadcom makes the MegaRAID and host bus adapter lines that began with LSI, and Microchip makes the Adaptec controllers, so their cables match those cards.
• HP Enterprise: a ProLiant server manufacturer, with cables made for its own server models.

Also in our range: BlueLAN and Storesys.

Server SAS cable FAQ

What is the difference between SFF-8087 and SFF-8643?

SFF-8087 is the older mini SAS connector, while SFF-8643 is the smaller mini SAS HD connector. Both carry four lanes, but they are physically different and do not plug into each other. Cables with SFF-8087 on one end and SFF-8643 on the other are available for mixed setups.

Can I connect SATA drives with a SAS cable?

Yes, in most cases. SAS controllers and backplanes generally accept SATA drives, and a breakout cable with SATA connectors lets four of them run from a single SAS port. The reverse does not work: SAS drives cannot be used on a plain SATA controller.

Does the length of a SAS cable affect speed?

Longer cables can lose signal quality, and the effect is more noticeable at higher speeds. For internal connections, choose the shortest cable that reaches comfortably. Make sure any external cable is rated for the speed of your controller and enclosure.

What is a reverse breakout cable?

A reverse breakout cable has four individual SATA or SAS connectors at one end and a single multi-lane connector at the other, and it is wired to run from the board ports to the backplane. A forward breakout cable goes the other way, from a controller port to four drives. Using the wrong direction means the drives will not be detected.