motherboard eSata port

[rayi23]

Hello. I have a Dell core2duo that has a regular sata type connector designated as eSata on the motherboard. I was wondering what kind of eSata adapter I should get. I know some of those adapters can utilize a regular sata connector and converts it to eSata but since I already have the designated eSata port, I wouldn't need that. I was looking at something like: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16812226003
thanks

 

[Paperdoc]

Are you sure the port you're talking about has a REGULAR SATA connector? The eSATA connector is different, but looks pretty similar.

BUT if you are right that the port has a real "normal" SATA connector but is labelled as eSATA, you still DO need the adapter to give you a genuine eSATA connector on the back of your case. Then you actually can plug into it a real eSATA cable to an external unit.

Here's where the sneaky secrets come. Those adapter plates do NOT convert a real SATA port to a real eSATA port. All they do is change the configuration of the connector, without making ANY changes to the signals on the wires. Now, the differences in signals between the two types of ports are partly in small differences in voltages, etc. But there are also differences in some of the logic in the signals and the special functions of the eSATA controller vs. a normal SATA controller. However, the adapters often do the job well or even perfectly. How? Because many mobo SATA controllers actually do most or all of the eSATA functions, but they just don't tell you that. So if you happen to have one of those types of "SATA" controllers on your mobo, the adapter can enable you to use a "real eSATA" port with a mere connector change, because the real work is already being done by the controller on the mobo. In your case, apparently that is exactly what you have, AND Dell kindly told you that.

 

[rayi23]

When you look at the motherboard, the sata port labeled eSata looks just like the sata port with the L shaped connector right next to it. Thanks for your info. I did read that that some people are having issues with those brackets for use with just a sata connector on your motherboard. I have been researching those connectors and it is not really clear. Now is there a difference between those connectors like Nippon ESATAB-1P bracket and just using a cable with sata connector at one end and a eSata connector at the other end and just slip it through an opening in your computer in the back. Particularly, in my case where I do have an eSata connector on my motherboard.

 

[Paperdoc]

No, there's no functional difference. The cable and bracket adapters merely connect the pins of one connector to those of another - there is no signal alteration. However, they do make it neater to have a real eSATA port connector mounted on the back exterior of your case, rather than a loose wire hanging out.

By the way, you mentioned two adapters. The Kingwin one has 2 cables and external connectors, and is intended for use with 2 mobo SATA ports that happen to have actual eSATA functions because of the chipset on the mobo. In your case, I am not sure all your STA ports have that, since ONE port specifically is labelled ad having that feature. So if you're planning to have only one eSATA port out the back, probably the Nippon Labs bracket you mentioned is a better choice.

Here's another hint. I don't know what you plan to plug into that eSATA port, but I assume it's some form of external hard drive. SOME external enclosures that use an eSATA connection come with one of those adapter panels free with the enclosure. Some complete external drives also come with one. So before spending money on an adapter, check whether the unit you're buying to plug in already comes with one.

 

[rayi23]

....... So if you're planning to have only one eSATA port out the back, probably the Nippon Labs bracket you mentioned is a better choice.......Here's another hint. I don't know what you plan to plug into that eSATA port, .

I did purchase the Nippon bracket. I generally just have some enclosures and a couple of Aluratex type vertical adapters. The Dell is the small desktop type that only fits one hard drive. My main annoyance with eSata is the external ports and cabling. It's hard to find decent cables that fit nice. If you get the stiff cables, the slightest movement disconnects the signal. None that are ideal. I must have spent a lot on just finding decent cables. I have a few lousy eSata enclosures too. I just don't understand why they would make such lousy eSata connectors and cabling. USB set an example of decent ports and cabling that fit good. I'm glad to see USB3 coming around. Thanks

 

[Paperdoc]

Since you're short of space for HDD's, note this. Spaces intended for 3½" floppy drives can accept a 3½" HDD (the standard desktop size) instead if you just don't remove the front cover panel. Even a space for a 5¼" slot (old floppy or new optical) can accept an HDD if you use spacer adapters.