FCI introduces a new generation of SAS memory interfaces

     FCI has developed a new generation of SAS storage interfaces and offers a new Mini-SAS HD portfolio. The line meets signal bandwidth requirements from 6 Gb/s to 12 Gb/s or the corresponding SAS 2.1 and proposed SAS 3.0 industry standard signal specifications. The system also offers a greater linear board port density (port to port 11 mm) than the previous SAS interconnect system (port to port linear port density of only 19.01 mm).

     "The continued growth of the Internet and related applications, and the storage needs and requirements to properly support them, make the Mini-SAS HD portfolio the preferred interconnect choice for current and future storage hardware architectures... Especially due to the linear board density provided by the Mini-SAS HD industry standard, "said Francis Lo, Senior Regional Business Development Manager at FCI.

     "Our IMLA-based plate connectors have been measured to be fully compliant with SAS 2.1 and the proposed SAS 3.0 industry standard. This allows our customers to now design SAS 2.1 applications on our plate connector products and seamlessly upgrade their systems to the proposed SAS 3.0 signal speed with the same product part number for both applications, avoiding any design changes, part number changes, or purchased product changes."FCI's Mini-SAS HD products are fully compliant with industry specifications SFF-8643 (internal applications) and SFF-8644 (external applications).

     The internal and external plate connection types available include 1X1 (4X), 1X2 (8x) and 1X4 (16X) configurations, giving the end customer choice and design flexibility. These plate connectors are configured to provide 4x and 8x internal and external cable assembly solutions, including EEPROM communication, providing a complete end-to-end solution. FCI's cable assembly products also include conventional cables with a Mini-SAS HD connector on one end and a connector system based on the previous Mini-SAS on the other end. All internal cable assemblies also have an increased sideband signal capability and can be bent to 90 degrees when the cable is routed without weakening the high-speed signal. The Mini-SAS HD is also designed to be fully compatible with PCI Express and can be used in these architecture applications.

     The robust metal cage and stamped metal EMI shielding shrapnel and cable located in the exterior panel connector system replace the problematic EMC elastic shims and provide comprehensive 360°EMI shielding for every connector port. Crimping eye terminals on connectors and cages enable simple, single-step crimping, ensuring consistent application on the PCB. Strain relief devices for external cables generate more than 20 pounds of axial tension. In addition, the card lock structure on the external cable is designed to reduce the cable insertion force and eliminate any disconnect bonding problems. The durability of the connector has been verified to 250 cycles.