Areca cable SlimSAS x8 SFF8654 a 2x x4 - cable

Modern high-performance storage systems often demand a clean, reliable connection between a single SlimSAS x8 host port and two separate x4 devices or backplane ports. This Areca cable solves that challenge by splitting an 8-lane SFF-8654 host connector into two 4-lane SFF-8654 device connectors, enabling efficient use of available PCIe or SAS lanes without additional adapters.

Who is it for

System integrators, IT professionals, and enthusiasts building or upgrading servers, workstations, or storage arrays with SlimSAS connectivity. It is particularly suited for users of Areca ARC-1886 series RAID controllers and other hardware featuring SFF-8654 ports, where a single x8 port must service two x4 targets such as NVMe SSDs or SAS drives.

Main features

• Splits one SlimSAS x8 (SFF-8654) host connector into two SlimSAS x4 (SFF-8654) device connectors
• Supports PCIe Gen4 (up to 16 GT/s per lane) and SAS 4.0 (up to 22.5 Gbps per lane) protocols
• 0.8-meter length ideal for internal routing in mid-tower and rackmount chassis
• Gold-plated contacts and 85-ohm impedance ensure signal integrity
• Individual pair shielding plus overall cable shielding minimize crosstalk and EMI
• 30 AWG copper conductors with durable black PVC jacket
• RoHS compliant and rated for 30V operation

Specifications

• Host connector: SlimSAS SFF-8654 x8 (male)
• Device connectors: 2x SlimSAS SFF-8654 x4 (male)
• Cable type: Internal data cable
• Supported protocols: PCIe Gen4, SAS 4.0
• Maximum data transfer rate: 16 GT/s per lane (PCIe) / 22.5 Gbps per lane (SAS)
• Number of lanes: 8 host to 2x 4 device
• Impedance: 85 Ohm
• Wire gauge: 30 AWG
• Cable length: 0.8 m (80 cm)
• Connector plating: Gold-plated contacts
• Shielding: Individual pair shielding and overall cable shielding
• Jacket material: PVC
• Colour: Black
• Operating temperature: 0°C to 70°C
• Storage temperature: -20°C to 85°C
• Voltage rating: 30V
• Flammability rating: VW-1
• RoHS compliance: Yes

Tips

Before installation, verify that your host controller and target devices support the same protocol (PCIe or SAS) and that the total lane count matches. Route the cable away from sharp edges and high-temperature components to preserve signal quality. For optimal airflow, use cable management features in your chassis to keep the cable neatly secured.