This knowledge base (KB) applies to the following NVMe RAID AICs.   Table 1: Support NVMe RAID AICs   Support NVMe RAID AICs SSD6202 SSD6204 SSD6202A SSD6204A   When the RAID is degraded or the disk is detached, the buzzer will sound. The Alarm (aka “Beeper”) is controlled by an MCU, and can only be disabled using the OOB (Out-of-Band) port. The WebGUI and CLI tools cannot directly communicate with the MCU. For more information on how to use the OOB, please refer to  SSD6200 & SSD6200A Series Management Guide -- Using the OOB (out of band) RAID Management   Section.

This knowledge base (KB) applies to the following NVMe RAID AICs.   Table 1: Support NVMe RAID AICs Support NVMe RAID AICs SSD7105, SSD7202, SSD7502, SSD7505, SSD7540, SSD7580B, SSD7580C, SSD7749E, SSD7749M, SSD7749M2, Rocket 7608A, Rocket 7628A, Rocket 7528D Note: This issue is applicable to all HighPoint NVMe products that support the Boot-RAID function.   Description: A Known bug with Windows 11 24h2 system will result in the loss of the HighPoint RAID partitionwhen attempting to  install Win11 24h2 onto a device directly connected to the system’s motherboard. Relevant Technical Information: OS Windows 11 24h2 Driver SSD7000 Series Driver-v1.3.15.0.1 (solution) R7000 Series Driver-v1.5.30 (solution) Solution: 1. This problem can be resolved in one of three ways: Remove the HPT device, then reinstall the Windows OS: 1) Power down the system and remove the HighPoint NVMe AIC/Adapter. 2) Reinstall Windows. 3) Once Windows is up and running, install the HighPoint NVMe driver. 4) Power down the system and reinstall the HighPoint NVIe AIC/Adapter. 5) Boot Windows – the HPT RAID partition should be intact. 2. New driver solution: 1) Download the new HighPoint Device Driver. To request the driver please submit a support case using our support portal:   https://www.highpoint-tech.com/websupport 2) If there is no existing HighPoint RAID Array:  Arrays created after the new driver has been installed will not lose the RAID partition when installing Windows. 3) If there is an existing HighPoint RAID Array a. Backup data stored in the array to another storage device. b. Delete the HighPoint RAID Array. c. Uninstall the old HighPoint Device Driver. d. Reboot Windows and Install the new HighPoint Device Driver. e. Reboot the system and re-create the HighPoint RAID Array. f. Restore backed-up data to the new RAID Array. 3. Upgrade the Windows OS using an Internet Connection Update the system using Settings→ Windows Update ; after the online update has completed the HighPoint RAID partition should remain intact.

This knowledge base (KB) applies to the following NVMe RAID AICs.   Table 1: Support NVMe RAID AICs   Support NVMe RAID AICs SSD7502 SSD7505 SSD7540 SSD7580A SSD7580B SSD7749M SSD7749E SSD6780A   Combinations Issue NVMe RAID AICs + Lenovo P620 motherboard A Broadcom 88048 I2C access timeout error will prevent the driver from loading properly in a Windows/ Linux environment.

This knowledge base (KB) applies to the following NVMe RAID AICs.   Table 1: Support NVMe RAID AICs Support NVMe RAID AICs SSD7505/SSD7540/Rocket1580/Rocket1508/Rocket1504 When using an SSD7505/SSD7540/Rocket1580/Rocket1508/Rocket1504 NVMe RAID controller with a Windows operating system, a “Yellow Mark” error is shown under Windows Device Manager for a “Mass Storage Controller”: SSD7505/SSD7540/Rocket1580/Rocket1508/Rocket1504: This “Yellow Mark” error message is associated with an unused feature of SSD7505, SSD7540, Rocket1580, Rocket1508, Rocket1504 NVMe RAID Controllers’ PCIe Switch chipset. It can be safely ignored, and will not interfere with the controller’s performance or functionality. If desired, you can remove the Yellow Mark by installing a special driver package for the controller – this update is available from our Support Department, upon request. The driver package includes information about the Switch Chipset – it is otherwise unchanged from the standard driver release. Installing the Optional Driver Package : Download 1. Install the SSD7540 (with at least 1 NVMe drive installed) into the motherboard, and boot the Windows operating system. 2. Open Device Manager → Other Devices → Mass Storage Controller 3. Right click on the “ Mass Storage Controller ” entry, select Update Driver Software  and choose Browse my computer for drivers.   4. Browse to the extracted drier package and click Next  to update. 5. When the pop-up window appears, please click Install. 6. After the installation process has completed, click Close : 7. Access Device Manager once more. Mass Storage Controller  should no longer be displayed. Instead, a Highpoint Driverless PCI Controller  should be show under System devices .

This knowledge base (KB) applies to the following NVMe RAID AICs.   Table 1: Support NVMe RAID AICs   Support NVMe RAID AICs SSD7101A-1 SSD7104 SSD7105 SSD7204 SSD7140A SSD7540 SSD7749M SSD7749M2 SSD7749E SSD7505 SSD7202 SSD7502 SSD7120 SSD7180 SSD7184 SSD7580B SSD7580C   For many NVMe-based storage applications, the security-performance tradeoff required for RAID 5 & 6 support is less than ideal. NVMe media is significantly more reliable than platter-based storage (conventional hard disk drives), which redundant RAID technology was developed for. And it should be noted; TBW status and SMART data enable administrators to predict, with great accuracy, when an NVMe SSD should be replaced. NVMe media’s inherit reliability is why many are comfortable with RAID 0 being designated as the “default” configuration for the majority of NVMe-based storage solutions. In general, RAID 5 & 6 is not recommended for today’s commercially available NVMe SSD’s. This applies equally to hardware, hardware-assisted and software-based RAID solutions. RAID 5 & 6 arrays are able to reconstruct data after hardware failure through the use of parity. Parity is spread across each member of the RAID array, and must be periodically synchronized (rebuilt and rewritten) in order to ensure the integrity of data. Maintaining parity for RAID 5 & 6 configurations significantly impacts the lifespan of NVMe media, which have finite write endurance. This endurance rating, or lifespan, is most commonly expressed as TBW (Terabytes Written) and DWPD (Drive Writes Per Day) . While it is true that RAID 5 & 6 arrays provide an additional layer of security; it comes with a cost. Even if one puts asides concerns about TBW, it is impossible to ignore the fact that maintaining parity requires dedicated computing resources; as a result, RAID 5 & 6 arrays perform notably slower than their RAID 0 counterparts. Customers that require additional security can opt for RAID 1/0. RAID 1/0, which is also known as RAID 10, requires a minimum of 4 NVMe SSD’s – it will mirror the data of one stripe array to a second, hidden stripe array for security. Unlike RAID 5, RAID 1/0 doesn’t necessitate additional parity related write operations, which reduce the TBW life span of NVMe SSD’s. In addition, a RAID 1/0 is capable of delivering read performance on par with a RAID 0 array.

The challenges faced by modern Edge AI environments isn’t limited to processing power—the physical geography of the host hardware platform has become a chief concern. As more and more businesses integrate AI driven technology into their workflows (factories, retail hubs, and telco towers), the required accelerator hardware is often being “crammed” into short-depth 1U and 2U servers. For AI Architects, two major challenges have arisen: 1. The Space challenge:  Many PCIe Gen5 cards are simply too long for compact edge chassis. 2. The Signal challenge:  At 32GT/s, moving data just a few extra centimeters via cables or risers can lead to signal failure. HighPoint’s Rocket 1604L  was engineered to tackle both challenges, simultaneously. The 40% Advantage: Designing for High-Density 1U Racks Physical space is the most expensive resource at the edge. Most Gen5 retimer cards are bulky, full-length designs that block airflow and interfere with high-TDP GPU cooling. Ultra-Compact PCB Form-Factor :  By re-engineering the PCB layout, HighPoint reduced the board length to just 167mm —over 40% shorter than standard 4-port Gen5 cards. Edge-Ready Design :  This ultra-compact, half-length design allows architects to deploy massive compute and storage density into short-depth 1U/2U edge servers where traditional cards simply won't fit. Airflow Optimization :  A smaller footprint means less obstruction for the server's high-velocity fans, keeping both the AIC and neighboring GPUs within safe thermal limits. 2x Longer Reach: The Power of Active Signal Regeneration Edge servers often require complex internal routing. Whether you are using a PCIe riser or "snaking" MCIO cables  around a heatsink, the signal integrity of a $32GT/s stream degrades almost instantly. The Problem with Passive :  A passive card at the end of a 30cm cable is a recipe for CRC errors and "down-training" (where your Gen5 drive drops to Gen4 or Gen3 speeds). The Retimer Solution : The Rocket 1604L Advanced Retimer technology intercepts the weakened signal from the host, scrubs the electromagnetic noise, and regenerates a fresh, bit-perfect data stream. Extended Connectivity :  This active conditioning effectively doubles the usable reach of your PCIe lanes. You can now place M.2 AI accelerators (like Hailo-8/10) or Gen5 NVMe drives in "Remote" bays without compromising performance. Built for "Always-On" Edge Platforms At the Edge, there is no IT team standing by to swap parts. Reliability is non-negotiable. The Rocket 1604L integrates Smart Firmware Layer that allows remote monitoring of: Real-time Power Draw:  See exactly how much wattage your AI modules are pulling. Lane Status: Verify that every device is running at a full Gen5 x4 link. Thermal Health:  Monitor slot-level temperatures to prevent the "Thermal Wall" that triggers performance throttling. The Final Word for AI Architects The Rocket 1604L is the industry’s only M.2 Module Expansion Infrastructure solution that respects the physical constraints of modern Edge platforms. By combining a 40% smaller footprint with the superior PCIe signaling capabilities of Retimer technology, HighPoint allows you to build denser, faster, and more reliable Edge AI clusters than ever before. HighPoint Gen5 4x M.2 AIC Model (167mm Form Factor) Feature Rocket 1604L Rocket 1604A Rocket 7604A Architecture Gen5 Retimer  (Active) Gen5 PCIe Switch Gen5 PCIe Switch Bifurcation Requirement Required  (Host/Slot x4/x4/x4/x4) None  (Self-Bifurcating) None  (Self-Bifurcating) Slot Compatibility Requires Bifurcation-Ready Slot Any Standard PCIe x16 Slot Any Standard PCIe x16 Slot RAID Support Native OS / Software RAID Native OS / Software RAID RAID 0, 1, 10 Length 167mm (Half-Length) 167mm (Half-Length) 167mm (Half-Length) Management Smart Firmware (Telemetry/FRU) Standard Telemetry Advanced Storage Health Suite   Learn More Explore HighPoint’s game-changing Gen5 Retimer AICs Rocket 1604L 4x M.2 Module PCIe Gen5 x16 Retimer AIC Blog: The Signal Integrity Revolution HighPoint Announces Rocket 1604L: The World’s Most Compact PCIe Gen5 x16 Retimer AIC for AI and Industrial Edge

As the industry continues to transition to PCIe Gen5 , IT professionals are quickly realizing that raw speed is no longer the only challenge. PCIe Signal Integrity – the strength and reliability of the PCIe pathway, is a new frontier. At 32GT/s, the physical window for data transmission is incredibly tight. HighPoint is rewriting the rules with a new breed of Active Retimer-Based AICs. The following article takes a is a deep dive into the architecture that makes Retimer-Based PCIe Gen5 AICs the backbone for next-generation AI and Enterprise storage. The Upstream: Parallel Gen5 x16 Connectivity HighPoint Retimer based Gen5 x16 AIC is designed for True Parallelism . Direct CPU Link:  By utilizing a full PCIe Gen5 x16 host interface, the board maps four independent x4 lanes (x4, x4, x4, x4)directly to the CPU. The Bifurcation Edge:  Designed for systems supporting  x4/x4/x4/x4 bifurcation , it allows the Host CPU to communicate with each M.2 device simultaneously, delivering a staggering 56GB/s  of real-world transfer performance. The Heart: Active Signal Conditioning This is where HighPoint’s Active Retimer Architecture  fundamentally changes the game. Unlike passive adapters that merely pass signals through the PCB, the Rocket 1604L’s integrated PCIe Gen5 Retimer Engine actively conditions and regenerates the data stream to maintain signal integrity across high-speed fabrics. Bit-Perfect Signal Regeneration: The retimer intercepts incoming PCIe traffic, removes accumulated signal noise, and re-times the data stream by regenerating a clean, precisely clocked signal. This process restores signal integrity and ensures reliable high-speed communication even in complex system topologies. Jitter Compensation and Extended Reach: By effectively resetting the signal’s jitter budget, the Retimer technology enables system architects to deploy remote M.2 modules through high-density MCIO cabling (up to 1 meter)   without risking signal degradation or link instability. This flexibility allows AI infrastructure designers to optimize physical layout while preserving Gen5 signal performance. Near-Zero PHY-Layer Latency: Because retimers operate directly at the physical layer, they introduce nearly zero latency to the process . Data transfers occur at performance levels comparable to a direct CPU-attached connection. This enables the expansion of up to four devices while maintaining the performance characteristics of a direct-wired PCIe lane—an essential advantage for real-time inference, AI acceleration, and other latency-sensitive workloads where every nanosecond matters .   HighPoint’s  "Smart Firmware" Intelligence Layer: Making the Black Box Self-Aware Historically, PCIe cards have been "Black Boxes"—you plug them in and hope they work at full speed. HighPoint’s Intelligent Firmware Layer  shifts the paradigm by providing deep-stack visibility into the physical health of your compute fabric. 1. Serviceability via FRU Management : For global deployments, remote serviceability is non-negotiable. Our firmware includes integrated Field Replaceable Unit (FRU)  data. Admins can remotely query the Part Number, Serial Number, and Manufacturer ID , alongside specific Astera Labs™ silicon telemetry . This allows for automated hardware audits and precision inventory management without having to visit the site in person. 2. Aggregate Board Power Monitoring: The Rocket 1604L monitors and reports  Total Board Power Consumption  in real time. This metric includes the combined wattage of the PCIe circuitry and all four connected M.2 modules. For architects managing high-density servers, this data is vital for Server-Level Power Capping and balancing the total power draw against the system’s PSU capacity, preventing unexpected shutdowns during peak inference workloads. 3. Retimer-Centric Thermal Insurance:   The Retimer is the engine of the Rocket 1604L. Our firmware proactively monitors the Retimer’s internal temperature to serve as the system’s primary thermal heartbeat. This real-time data allows the system to manage fan cooling curves or trigger automated alerts before waste heat can trigger a thermal throttle. By keeping the Retimer within its optimal operating window, you ensure consistent, deterministic performance for your AI TOPS (Tera Operations Per Second)  or high-speed storage workloads. 4. Instant Lane Verification:  In complex Edge AI server environments, a "stealth" performance drop is a nightmare. Our Smart Firmware instantly confirms Lane Negotiation . You can verify that all four M.2 accelerators are locked at Gen5 x4 bandwidth. If a link trains down to Gen4 due to a seated-cable issue, you’ll see it instantly in the management console. Why It Matters for AI & High-Performance Computing: In an AI inference environment, "good enough" signal integrity doesn't exist. A single bit-error can trigger a re-transmission that causes your inference model to stutter. Target Applications: Where Retimer Architecture Wins Multi-Accelerator Edge AI Clusters:  Host up to 4x high-density AIPUs (such as Axelera or Hailo) via a single 167mm AIC. The Rocket 1604L’s Retimer architecture ensures that each module operates with "GPU-level" throughput and zero packet-routing overhead, providing maximum TOPS (Tera Operations Per Second) for real-time inference. Direct-to-Drive Data Acquisition (DAQ):  In scientific research and high-frequency sensor environments, Gen5 NVMe drives must capture massive data streams without a single dropped packet. The Rocket 1604L’s bit-perfect signal integrity ensures that high-speed Gen5 SSDs maintain their maximum sustained write speeds without CRC errors or link down-training. High-Frequency Trading (HFT) & Financial Analytics:  For high-demand HFT applications, microseconds are the difference between profit and loss. By utilizing the 1604L’s Near-Zero PHY-Layer Latency, IT architects can deploy Gen5 NVMe arrays to provide the fastest possible access to transaction logs and market data, performing as if they were wired directly to the CPU. Industrial Machine Vision & Real-Time Analytics:  Maintain bit-perfect data streams from high-resolution industrial cameras to processing modules in electrically noisy factory environments. The Retimer actively cleans the signal, ensuring that AI-driven quality control systems operate with 100% accuracy and no signal-induced jitter. Disaggregated Compute & Thermal Isolation:  Paring the Rocket 1604L with the MCIO-PCIEX16-G5 Bridge Card enables IT architects to use industry-standard MCIO cabling to situate power-hungry AI accelerators or Gen5 SSDs in "Cold Zones" of the chassis. The Rocket 1604L’s Retimer architecture provides the electrical "muscle" to push Gen5 signals over extended distances, allowing for superior thermal management without sacrificing signal purity. Learn More Explore HighPoint’s game-changing Gen5 Retimer AICs Rocket 1604L 4x M.2 Module PCIe Gen5 x16 Retimer AIC MCIO-PCIEX16-G5 Bridge Card HighPoint Announces Rocket 1604L: The World’s Most Compact PCIe Gen5 x16 Retimer AIC for AI and Industrial Edge

For years, Edge AI was forced into a corner: you either used underpowered integrated chips or massive, power-hungry GPUs that wouldn't fit in a ruggedized industrial-grade enclosure. Today, Edge architecture is shifting. The rise of M.2 AI Processing Units (AIPUs)—like the Hailo-10, Axelera Metis, and Ambrize—has introduced the era of Modular Compute. But these modules are only as good as the interface they plug into. To build a true "Swiss Army Knife" for your Edge environment, you need more than just a passive interface card; you need the active infrastructure of the HighPoint Rocket 1604L. The Modular Shift: Why M.2 is the Future of the Edge   AI Architects are moving to M.2 AIPUs for three reasons: 1. Granular Scalability:  Need more TOPS (Tera Operations Per Second)? Just add another M.2 module. 2. Power Efficiency : AIPUs deliver high-performance inference at a fraction of the wattage of traditional GPUs 3. Heterogeneous Compute : Mix and match storage (NVMe) and compute (AIPU) on the same controller.   The Challenge: The "Signal Wall" of Gen5 Modular Compute   While M.2 modules are small, the data they move at Gen5 speeds is massive. In a compact Edge server, placing four of these modules on a standard passive card leads to Signal Interference and Thermal Throttling. If the signal isn't "clean," your 40 TOPS AI module might perform like a 10 TOPS chip—or fail entirely.   Rocket 1604L: The Infrastructure for Modular AI   HighPoint’s Rocket 1604L has been engineered to act as the "Master Controller" for your modular AI cluster. It is the only AIC that provides the active expansion infrastructure these high-performance modules require:   1. The Retimer: Ensuring Deterministic Inference: AI inference requires a perfectly timed, jitter-free data stream. HighPoint’s Advanced Retimer Engine regenerates the PCIe signal for each of the four M.2 slots. This ensures that every AIPU receives a "Bit-Perfect" Gen5 x4 link, preventing the dropped frames and latency spikes that plague passive expansion cards. 2. The 40% Density Advantage : Edge deployments often happen in short-depth 1U servers or ruggedized "shoebox" PCs. The Rocket 1604L’s ultra-compact 167mm half-length form-factor is 40% shorter than standard Gen5 cards. This allows you to pack a 4-slot AI cluster into spaces where a GPU could never fit. 3. Pro-Class Thermal Stability: High-performance AI modules generate localized heat spikes. The Rocket 1604L features a self-contained active cooling ecosystem. By managing the airflow across all four slots, it ensures your "Swiss Army Knife" doesn't hit a thermal wall during 24/7 inference workloads.   Use Case: The Edge AI Aggregator   Imagine a Smart City hub processing 32 high-definition camera feeds:   Slot 1-2:  Two Hailo-10 modules handling object detection. Slot 3-4:  Two Gen5 NVMe drives for high-speed video buffering.   With the Rocket 1604L, this entire "Modular Data Center" can fit into a single PCIe slot. Thanks to HighPoint’s Intelligent Firmware, IT architects can monitor the power draw of the AIPUs and the thermal health of the storage in real-time.   Final Thought: Don't Build on Passive Foundations   Modular AI is about flexibility and reliability. If you are building a mission-critical Edge AI platform, don't let a passive "pass-through" card be your bottleneck. The Rocket 1604L is the active foundation that turns a collection of M.2 modules into a high-performance AI powerhouse.   Learn More Explore HighPoint’s game-changing Gen5 Retimer AICs Rocket 1604L 4x M.2 Module PCIe Gen5 x16 Retimer AIC MCIO-PCIEX16-G5 Bridge Card HighPoint Announces Rocket 1604L: The World’s Most Compact PCIe Gen5 x16 Retimer AIC for AI and Industrial Edge

For data intensive AI/ML training workloads and high-performance computing (HPC), the limited number of PCI Express (PCIe) lanes provided by the host CPU has long been a source of performance bottlenecks. Once a system’s PCIe slots are fully utilized, performance scaling typically comes to a standstill. HighPoint Technologies groundbreaking PCIe Switch Adapters are engineered to eliminate such bottlenecks, and can transform a single PCIe x16 slot into a powerful high-speed expansion platform capable of hosting multiple GPUs, FPGAs, NVMe SSDs, and high-bandwidth networking devices. The Heart of the Architecture: Broadcom PCIe Switch Integration Industry-leading PCIe Switch ICs reside within the heart of every HighPoint Expansion Adapter. · Broadcom PEX88048  — 48-Lane PCIe Gen4 Switch · Broadcom PEX89048  — 48-Lane PCIe Gen5 Switch The innovative hardware architecture ensures that dedicated, non-blocking PCIe bandwidth is allocated between the host and each downstream device. The result: Uncompromised full-lane performance for every hosted device — without resource sharing, latency penalties, or driver dependencies. Dedicated Bandwidth for Ultimate Scalability   HighPoint’s design philosophy is simple but powerful: expansion should never come at the cost of performance.Each MCIO or Slim-SAS port provides x8 dedicated PCIe lanes, allowing a single adapter to host multiple high-speed devices simultaneously — while maintaining full Gen4 or Gen5 bandwidth per connection. Product Switch Chip Gen/Lanes (Host) External Ports Lane Allocation (Per Port) Primary Use Case Rocket 1528D PEX88048 Gen4 x16 4x SlimSAS x8 Dedicated Gen4 x8 4x NVMe / GPU / Accelerator Expansion Rocket 1628D PEX89048 Gen5 x16 4x MCIO x8 Dedicated Gen5 x8 4x Gen5 NVMe / GPU / Accelerator Expansion Rocket 1624A PEX89048 Gen5 x16 2x MCIO x8 Dedicated Gen5 x8 Dual PCIe x8 Slot Expansion The dedicated bandwidth ensures linear scalability, deterministic latency, and true isolation between connected devices. Hybrid Connectivity for AI/ML Workflows: The Rocket 7638D HighPoint Rocket 7638D  represents the next evolution of PCIe switch architecture — delivering hybrid internal and external connectivity  within a single adapter: · Dual Internal MCIO x8 Ports:  Support up to 16x NVMe drives , for ultra-low-latency, high-density storage arrays. · 1x External CDFP x16 Port:  Enables a direct connection to an external GPU or PCIe enclosure  via a dedicated Gen5 x16 interface. This hybrid design allows peer-to-peer data communication  between compute and storage devices, enabling GPU-Direct Storage (GDS)  to bypass CPU intervention, minimize latency, and dramatically accelerate the feed of data for AI, inference, and simulation workloads. Complementary PCIe Expansion Ecosystem To maximize flexibility, HighPoint offers a complete expansion ecosystem  that seamlessly integrates with its Switch Adapter family. Internal Expansion: MCIO-PCIEx16-G5 Bridge Card The MCIO-PCIEx16-G5  converts MCIO x8 links back into a standard PCIe x16 slot , enabling the target computing platform to host additional GPUs, FPGAs, or I/O cards internally. Key Features: · Dedicated Bandwidth:  Each MCIO x8 connection provides full Gen5 x8 throughput. · Scalable Design: o One MCIO x8 → one Gen5 x8 slot o Two MCIO x8 → two Gen5 x8 slots (ideal for GPUs or accelerator cards) This bridge card’s flexible architecture is ideal for system architects designing GPU-dense or FPGA-based compute nodes. 2. External Expansion: RocketStor eGPU Enclosures For applications requiring external compute density or modular scalability, the Rocket 7638D CDFP x16 port  can directly host RocketStor 8000 series eGPU enclosures . Enclosure Model Connection Gen/Bandwidth Application RocketStor 8631D 1x CopprLink/CDFP x16 Dedicated Gen5 x16 Top-Tier PCIe Gen5 GPUs and Accelerators RocketStor 8631C 1x CopprLink/CDFP x16 Dedicated Gen5 x16 High-performance external GPU / PCIe card expansion These enclosures ensure near-native GPU and accelerator performance , extending full-lane PCIe connectivity beyond the system chassis — perfect for compact workstations and high-density server environments. Redefining PCIe Scalability By integrating Broadcom’s advanced PCIe switch technology , HighPoint’s PCIe Switch Adapters eliminate the long-standing limitations of CPU lane count, transforming industry standard PCIe slots into a scalable, multi-device expansion platforms . · Plug-and-Play Compatibility:  Detected natively as a PCI-to-PCI bridge; no driver required. · Dedicated Bandwidth:  Non-blocking PCIe paths for every downstream port. · Universal Connectivity:  Support for NVMe, GPU, FPGA, NIC, and I/O devices. · Optimized for AI/HPC:  Peer-to-peer GPU and storage communication reduces latency and boosts compute efficiency. HighPoint Technologies  empowers data centers, AI research labs, and HPC integrators with the lane density, flexibility, and bandwidth  demanded by next-generation c omputing. Learn More Rocket 1628A Rocket 1624A Rocket 7638D RocketStor 8631D RocketStor 8531AW MCIO-PCIEX16-G5

The HighPoint Rocket 7638D  is a revolutionary external Gen5 PCIe Expansion Adapter engineered to eliminate one of the most critical performance barriers in modern AI, ML, and data-intensive computing — data starvation . The Rocket 7638D innovative hardware architecture leverages PCIe switching technology to establish a direct data path between GPUs and NVMe storage and eliminate CPU related bottlenecks. The pathway provides x16 lanes of dedicated Gen5 bandwidth and allows NVIDIA® GPUs to access massive datasets in real time, significantly accelerating training, inference, and other high-throughput workloads while avoiding the latency and overhead of host CPU involvement. The Rocket 7638D: Versatile GPU-Direct Fabric with Tunable Performance The HighPoint Rocket 7638D transcends the role of a standard PCIe Switch Adapter; it is the industry’s most cost-effective and flexible hardware platform for GPU-Direct NVMe storage connectivity. Engineered to act as the central switch hub  for external PCIe Gen5 infrastructure, it strategically consolidates compute and storage resources through a unified, single-adapter design, ensuring continuous, ultra-low-latency data flow - essential for maximizing the utilization of today’s high-performance accelerators. HighPoint solutions are powered by industry-leading switch silicon (such as the Broadcom PEX89048) , and augmented by our customizable firmware services . This allows the entire product line to be precisely tuned to meet the unique workflow requirements and stringent security demands of diverse vertical applications, from AI training farms to massive HPC clusters. Direct GPU-NVMe Access:  Bypasses the CPU and system DRAM, dramatically reducing I/O latency and freeing up host resources. Dedicated Gen5 x16 Bandwidth:  Guarantees full PCIe Gen5 x16 performance for direct communication between the GPU and storage devices. Simplified Hardware Stack:  Offers a cost-effective and easy-to-deploy hardware architecture for advanced AI/ML, High-Performance Computing (HPC), and media processing applications." Port Connectivity and Accessory Components The Rocket 7638D’s robust, hybrid external + internal port connectivity and optional accessories were designed to accommodate diverse range of hardware platforms and integration requirements. Hybrid External/Internal Port Configuration: 1 × External CDFP Gen5 x16 Port – Supports CopprLink PCIe Gen5 cabling for external JBOF enclosures or eGPU chassis interconnect. 2 × Internal MCIO Gen5 x8 Ports  – High-density downstream connections for PCIe-based GPUs or NVMe devices. Optimized for Direct GPU-NVMe  Dataflow – Ensures predictable low latency and non-blocking throughput across all connected endpoints.   Connectivity & Expansion Accessories: To empower integrators, OEMs, and administrators with maximum flexibility, HighPoint provides a comprehensive suite of modular accessories that support a wide range of GPU and NVMe configurations - ideal for diverse range of AI, edge, and data-center workflows. Accessory Function & Key Benefit Configuration Use Case MCIO-PCIEX16-G5 Converts Dual MCIO 8i ports into a full-sized PCIe 5.0 x16 slot . Integrating an external PCIe device (e.g., a capture card or accelerator) directly via the switch adapter. RocketStor 8631C PCIe Gen5 x16 eGPU Expansion Enclosure  (Includes Gen5 x16 Cable). Expanding the system with an external, high-bandwidth GPU or Accelerators. CIO8-CI08-110 Cable Gen5 x8 MCIO Cable  for host or storage connection. Connecting the adapter to a single MCIO port on a host or storage device. CIO8-8639-110 Cable Splits a single MCIO x8 port to 2x U.3 Drives . Direct connectivity to a pair of high-performance U.3 NVMe SSDs. CIO8-1002-110 Cable Splits a single MCIO x8 port to 2x E3.s Drives . Direct connectivity to a pair of Enterprise and Data Center SSD Form Factor (E3.s) NVMe SSDs. RocketStor 6624C 8-Bay Gen5 x16 CDFP/CopprLink Storage NVMe JBOF Enclosure . Massive, high-speed external storage capacity expansion with direct x16 connectivity for maximum throughput. Engineered for Vertical Application Flexibility The Rocket 7638D is designed for modular expansion and vertical scalability, allowing administrators to tailor direct dataflow topologies to their specific workflows - ranging from AI/ML model training and real-time inference to 8K media production and scientific visualization. External GPUs / Internal Storage Expansion Solutions:          External Storage Devices / Internal GPU Expansion Solutions   Together with its accessory ecosystem, the Rocket 7638D forms a versatile, cost-efficient GPU-Direct NVMe platform that simplifies high-performance system design, and guarantees sustained Gen5 throughput for the next generation of data-driven computing. The Competitive Edge: Tunable Performance & Future-Proof Fabric By offering direct GPU-to-NVMe communication over a dedicated PCIe Gen5 x16 fabric, and by integrating customizable, hardware-level firmware , the Rocket 7638D delivers a fundamental competitive advantage: Maximized GPU Utilization:  Keep high-cost GPUs saturated with data, achieving higher training and inference throughput by eliminating CPU bottlenecks. Precision-Tuned Workflows:  Leverage the tunable firmware  to precisely configure the PCIe fabric topology, guaranteeing predictable low latency  and optimal data paths tailored to your unique AI, HPC, or media processing demands. Future-Proof Scalability:  Seamlessly integrate and scale next-generation PCIe Gen5 NVMe storage and compute-hardware while maintaining peak efficiency. Optimized Data Pipelines:  Streamline the data path for real-time processing, large-scale simulation, and complex data analytics, ensuring performance consistency across all connected endpoints. The HighPoint Rocket 7638D is the essential foundation for any organization looking to scale its AI/ML capabilities and unlock the true performance potential of its NVIDIA GPU investment.   Learn More   External PCIe Expansion and GPU Enclosures:   Rocket 7638D External PCIe Gen5 x16 Switch Adapter   Rocket 7634D External PCIe Gen5 x16 CopprLink Adapter   RocketStor 8531AW PCIe Gen4 x16 eGPU Expansion Chassis   Blogs & Technical Articles:   Shared PCIe Bandwidth Bottlenecks: Why More Lanes Don’t Always Mean More Performance Introduction   Unleashing AI Performance with HighPoint’s Rocket 7638D: Direct GPU-to-NVMe Data Pathways mean Faster Training and Inference

The Bottleneck is Real: Why Your Next-Gen GPU Needs a Next-Gen Enclosure Today’s leading PCIe Gen5 and Gen4 GPUs are helping to redefine what’s possible in  AI/LLM training, HPC workloads, and 3D design & engineering . But for many professionals, there’s a major catch: many existing workstation, small form-factor (SFF) PC, and server platforms are ill equipped to support such devices. PCIe slot limitations, the lack of internal space, restrictive bandwidth, and inadequate power delivery all but ensure that even the most powerful GPU is throttled before it ever comes close to reaching its full potential. As a result, many are forced to look outside the box, and eGPU (external GPU) solutions are an increasingly attractive option. Unfortunately, conventional eGPU enclosures, most of which employ Thunderbolt technology, tend to focus on convenience rather than performance. The compact form factor and simple single-cable USB-C connectivity make setup a snap. However, with bandwidth capped to x4 PCIe 4.0 or 3.0 lanes, they deliver only a fraction of what modern GPUs require. For professionals working with 8K video, complex simulations or 3D models, or AI training datasets, this performance bottleneck will translate directly into wasted time and reduced productivity. The Solution: RocketStor 8000 eGPU Expansion Chassis By providing a dedicated, unthrottled PCIe x16 connection , RocketStor 8000 enclosures ensure your GPU always operates at its full potential—up to 128GB/s of bi-directional Gen5 bandwidth with ultra-low latency! Whether you’re deploying an NVIDIA Gen5 RTX or RTX PRO for AI workloads or integrating a multi-slot GPU for design and content creation, RocketStor 8000 series eGPU enclosures are engineered to deliver uncompromised performance for any platform with a free Gen5/4 x16 slot. The Advantage of PCIe Switching Technology: Bandwidth Without Compromise The secret behind RocketStor 8000’s massive performance envelop is its unique hardware architecture, which combines a high-density CDFP-Copprlink cabling solution, low-profile PCIe x16 Switch adapter and robust, enterprise-grade external chassis . Together, these components synergize to deliver a true x16 link between the host platform and GPU , not the capped x4 connections typical of consumer-oriented enclosures. Add in the newly upgraded 600W PSU , and the solution is ready and willing to handle the extreme power spikes of next-gen GPUs with stability and confidence. RocketStor 8000 series eGPU enclosures are not simply add-on-devices—they are engineered to operate as seamless extensions of your chosen computing platform, enabling you to scale GPU performance to meet the ever-growing demands of professional compute workflows. The Promise: Unlock the Full Power of Your GPU RocketStor 8000 eGPU Enclosure  aren’t accessories. The are turnkey, enterprise-grade solutions for professionals who rely on state-of-the-art GPUs to accelerate their workloads. By removing the bandwidth bottlenecks associated with conventional eGPU solutions, and ensuring rock-solid power delivery, RocketStor 8000 series enclosures enable you to unleash the full computational performance of your investments . Don’t let your GPU be held back by yesterday’s infrastructure. Step into the future of performance with the RocketStor 8000—and experience what true Gen5 eGPU acceleration feels like.   Learn More about HighPoint RocketStor 8000 Series eGPU Expansion Solutions RocketStor 8631CW - PCIe Gen5 x16 eGPU Expansion Chassis RocketStor 8531AW - PCIe Gen4 x16 eGPU Expansion Chassis RocketStor 8000 Series eGPU Expansion Solutions Unleash Gen5 GPU Power for Edge AI & LLMs From Pixels to Prototypes: Unleash Your Creativity with Uncompromised GPU Performance HighPoint Upgrades RocketStor 8000 Series eGPU Enclosures with 600W PSU and Smart Cooling Solution for Gen5 GPUs

For professional  3D modeling, CAD/CAM, and VFX  workloads, every second counts. Long render times, sluggish simulations, and delayed iterations can stall creativity, disrupt momentum, leading to increased costs and missed deadlines. For professionals that rely on compact workstations, Mini-PCs, or desktops , the challenge is clear: how can you access desktop-class Gen5 GPU power without sacrificing mobility or flexibility? For many, this means turning to an external solution. Unfortunately, the vast majority of eGPU enclosures in today’s marketplace cater to consumer applications, trading power for convenience. So, what’s the alternative? Enter HighPoint’s new line of eGPU Expansion solutions HighPoint’s RocketStor 8000 series of eGPU expansion chassis represent the industry’s only true PCIe Gen5 x16 eGPU connectivity solutions, and are precision-engineered to eliminate the performance bottlenecks associated with mobile and compact workstation platforms. The Professional’s Pain Points · Video Editors:  Waiting hours to render 4K/8K footage. · Engineers:  Struggling with complex CFD or FEA simulations that overwhelm limited hardware. · 3D Artists:  Watching progress bars creep by when processing large, high-fidelity models. Traditional eGPU solutions, which employ Thunderbolt or OcuLink technology, simply can’t supply the bandwidth or power that modern GPUs demand, leaving media professionals under-equipped for mission-critical workflows. The RocketStor Advantage RocketStor 8000 eGPU expansion chassis provide mobile professions with a simple, plug-and-play upgrade path to uncompromised GPU compute power. Proven PCIe switching architecture, enterprise grade adapter hardware and innovative CDFP/CopprLink connectivity work in tandem to deliver up to 64GB/s of sustained transfer bandwidth with minimal latency, to ensure your GPU’s render pipeline is never starved for data. Add in an integrated 600W PSU, purpose-built to mitigate transient power spikes of today’s most demanding Gen5 GPUs, and professionals gain both speed and stability in one seamless solution. Workflow Integration in Action · Video Editing Studio:  A Mini-PC or compact workstation handles daily tasks, while the RocketStor 8000 powers GPU-accelerated rendering for lightning-fast project delivery. · Engineering Firm:  Engineers offload complex CFD or simulation calculations to a Gen5 GPU via the RocketStor 8000 solution— drastically cutting processing times and streamlining workflows. · 3D Artist:  The RocketStor 8000 effortlessly hosts 2-slot or 3-slot GPUs, enabling the existing Mini-PC or compact workstations to process heavy rendering workloads without taxing computing resources or compromising other PCIe devices.   In Summary HighPont RocketStor 8000  eGPU solutions are more than simple-add-ons – they are complete, turnkey  workflow accelerators . For creative and engineering professionals, they can transform a time-consuming, resource sapping bottleneck into an unobstructed pathway between the host computer and GPU, empowering faster iteration, reduced rendering times, and enhanced productivity. Never settle for second-best when every second matters. HighPoint RocketStor 8000 eGPU expansion solutions can unleash the full potential of your GPU—and your creativity.   Learn More about HighPoint RocketStor 8000 Series eGPU Expansion Solutions RocketStor 8531AW - PCIe Gen4 x16 eGPU Expansion Chassis Unlocking the Full Potential of your external GPU; HighPoint RocketStor 8000 Series eGPU Enclosures Deliver a true PCIe Gen5 Experience RocketStor 8000 Series eGPU Expansion Solutions Unleash Gen5 GPU Power for Edge AI & LLMs HighPoint Upgrades RocketStor 8000 Series eGPU Enclosures with 600W PSU and Smart Cooling Solution for Gen5 GPUs