If maximum performance and longevity is your goal, keeping the temperature of NVMe storage within the boundaries set by the manufacturer is an absolute must. NVMe SSDs generate a considerable amount of heat, especially Gen5 and Gen4 media. The ability to properly manage this waste should be a key concern of any modern high-performance server or workstation platform. NVMe media will activate a safety mechanism known as thermal throttling when temperatures cross a critical threshold. The SSD will downgrade throughput in order to mitigate heat generation and preserver hardware; hence the term “throttling” – it will throttle down performance. This article examines the innovative ways HighPoint NVMe Rocket 7608A PCIe Gen5 x16 Pro-Class NVMe RAID AIC works to combat the threat of thermal throttling, and how this approach differs from ordinary NVMe controller cards.   The Problem of Heat Management   When aggregating storage via a dedicated NVMe AIC (add-in-card) cooling concerns can multiply. Not only must waste heat generated by the SSD media be kept in control, so to must heat generated by the AIC/Adapter’s NVMe controller ICs. Unfortunately, the majority of NVMe PCIe cards are ill prepared in this sense – most have only basic cooling hardware (a simple fan or heat sink, for example). Ordinary NVMe PCIe add-in-cards  tend to rely on the host platform’s internal cooling system. This approach is at odds with the needs of professional server and workstation platforms. The internal cooling systems are generally stressed enough as is; the average platform must deal with the host CPU, motherboard and power supply, in addition to an assortment of other PCIe devices, ranging from networking controllers and expansion cards, to high-speed GPU’s. Adding an ordinary NVMe controller to the mix may be asking for trouble. HighPoint’s Intelligent Pro-Active PCIe Gen5 Cooling Solutions: Leveraging State of the Art Hardware and Innovative Software to Combat Thermal Throttling HighPoint understands how critical heat management is for modern high-performance computing platforms. It is key to maintaining long-term durability and performance potential of any given system. Our NVMe solutions have always been built with these requirements in mind, and challenge performance-robbing thermal throttling head on. To coincide with the release of our PCIe Gen5 NVMe storage solutions, we have introduced a groundbreaking approach to NVMe thermal management. Our next-generation Rocket 7608A PCIe Gen5 x16 Pro-Class NVMe RAID AIC is a true standout in this regard. Unlike ordinary NVMe controller cards, the solution pairs the industry’s most advanced hardware cooling systems with a powerful software suite designed enhance the reliability of NVMe media and maximize storage performance by keeping the threat of performance -robbing thermal throttling at bay.   The Hardware Side   Rocket 7600 series Pro-Class NVMe RAID AICs employ the latest generation of our proven NVMe hardware cooling solutions. The system is to our product lines, and isn’t simply a mish-mash of standardized componentry.   Key Features: · Multi-Layered Cooling System: √ Aluminum Heatsink:  The robust aluminum heatsink covers the entire length of the NVMe device, maximizing the surface area for heat dissipation  √ Durable, Low-Decibel Cooling Fan : A powerful, low-noise fan is integrated directly into the heatsink for maximum efficiency  √ Dual-Cooling Padding:  By providing cooling from both the top and bottom, the dual-cooling padding ensures that all heat generated by the NVMe device is effectively managed · Integrated Notification & Alert System:  An audible alarm and series of LED indicators enable administrators to instantly asses potential heat-related issues in the field   Multi-Layered Cooling System:   The Rocket 7608A   employs a full-length aluminum heatsink with copper SSD contacts, two layers of thermal padding and a powerful low-decibel cooling fan. This innovative, layered approach ensures that the hosted M.2 media is able to operate within the manufacturers specified temperature threshold, even under maximum sustained load. The Rocket 7608A’s hardware cooling solution was precision engineered to excel in enterprise hardware environments, and are precisely sized and positioned to ensure the AIC remains compliant with CEM PCIe specifications, and provides proper clearance for neighboring PCIe devices. Integrated Notification & Alert Systems   All Rocket 7600 and 1600 series solutions provide a series of alert and notification systems to keep you abreast of changing environmental conditions while away in the field or on-site. The Rocket 7608A Pro-Class RAID AIC incorporates a series of LED Indicators into the bracket side of the PCB, and an Error Alarm toward the right-side of the device (beneath the heatsink/casing). The audible alarm can be enabled/disabled as needed, via the WebGUI and CLI management tools (more on this later). A variety of LED codes (color, flashing patterns) are used to indicate the temperature status of each SSD and the internal NVMe IC and PCI Switch chipset. The Software Suite   The Rocket 7608A comprehensive Management and Monitoring suite provides a powerful thermal management toolset.   Key Features     √ SHI  – Storage Health Inspector : Utilizes S.M.A.R.T. to track and report SSD temperature and health status   √ Temperature Threshold Optimization : SHI will automatically establish a threshold warning system to match the specifications of each SSD.   √ Email Notification System : Sends temperature warnings and alerts to one or more administrators   √ Adjustable Fan Control : Configurable fan for unique applications and environments - select from 5 speed settings   SHI   The software side of the equation utilizes our proven SHI (Storage Health Inspector) solution . Integrated directly into the WebGUI and CLI Management Tools, SHI enables administrators to track the temperature of each SSD using S.M.A.R.T. (Self-Monitoring and Reporting Technology) in real time.   SHI (storage health inspector) is a key feature of HighPoint NVMe solutions. The solution is integrated into the WebGUI and CLI (command line utility) interfaces and enables administrators to monitor the temperature of each NVMe device in real time. SHI Displays SMART data as a list of attributes – this data can be viewed by clicking “Detail” for each SSD. Temperature Threshold Optimization HighPoint WebGUI HighPoint CLI (Command-Line Interface) SHI will automatically configure temperature thresholds based on the settings specified by each SSD’s firmware. Email Notification & Event Logging   The Rocket 7608A provides a series of alert and notification systems to keep you abreast of changing environmental conditions while away in the field or on-site. Designed to work in conjunction with the integrated LED Indicators and Audible Error Alarm, the WebGUI’s Event Log records any temperature warnings, faults or alerts reported by SHI, which can then be exported for analysis and troubleshooting purposes. In addition, you can configure the WebGUI and CLI to automatically contact one or more administrators whenever a critical temperature threshold is breached via the SMTP Email notification service. Adjustable Fan Controls   Full Fan Control is provided for the Rocket 7608A Pro-Class RAID AIC. Although the AIC is perfectly capable of managing temperature on its own, the ability to manually adjust fan speed allows administrators to tune the cooling system to meet the needs of each target platform and workflow. The WebGUI and CLI tools provide 5 speed settings to select from, including an option to activate a passive cooling mode for workflows that demand complete silence. Why HighPoint’s Cooling Solutions Stand Out The Rocket 7608A’s Intelligent Pro-Active PCIe Gen5 Cooling Solutions is the new standard for PCIe NVMe add-in-solutions. Unlike standard NVMe AICs, which rely on the host platform’s cooling system, HighPoint offers a comprehensive, multi-layered approach to NVMe cooling management. It’s a complete package: 1. Innovative Hardware Design:  A multi-layered hardware system combines a full-length aluminum heatsink, low-decibel cooling fan, and dual thermal pads to ensure waste heat is efficiently dissipated away from the NVMe media and sensitive controller hardware. 2. Advanced Software Suite:  Configurable temperature thresholds, full fan control and a selection of monitoring tools and alert mechanisms provide a proactive and customizable approach to cooling management. 3. Enhanced Device Protection:  By maintaining optimal temperatures, HighPoint’s cooling solutions help extend the lifespan of NVMe devices and ensure consistent performance. In Summary HighPoint’s Intelligent Pro-Active PCIe Gen5 Cooling Solution is a game-changer for PCIe NVMe add-in-card solutions. With state-of-the-art hardware and an innovative software suite, the solution offers unparalleled efficiency, flexibility, and protection for high-performance storage environments. Whether you’re managing a data center or a high-end workstation, HighPoint provides the peace of mind that your NVMe devices are always operating at their best. For more information and to explore HighPoint’s full range of cooling solutions, visit HighPoint’s Official Website . Learn More…   HighPoint WebGUI RAID & Storage Management PCIe Gen5 NVMe RAID Series Proactive Environmental Solution   FAQs: Q1: What NVMe SSDs are compatible with HighPoint’s cooling solutions? A:  HighPoint’s cooling solutions support any industry-standard NVMe SSD. Configurable temperature thresholds, customizable Alerts & Notifications, and Full Fan Control enable administrators to tune the solution for specific configurations and applications. Q2: How can I set the temperature threshold for my NVMe device? A:  The temperature thresholds can be configured via HighPoint’s WebGUI and CLI management tools. Q3: What happens if the temperature exceeds the set threshold? A:  When the temperature exceeds the set threshold, administrators are notified through SMTP email, LED indicators, an Audible Alarm, and detailed event logs.

NVMe storage solutions are available in a multitude of form factors, ranging from individual SSDs and pocket drives to external enclosures and PCIe controller cards. Outside of a single-SSD upgrades, NVMe controller cards are the most common. Most are likely already familiar with NVMe AICs -  this type of device enables you to add anywhere from 1 to 8 M.2 SSDs via PCIe connectivity. Most are marketed as accessories for a particular model or brand of computing platform, or motherboard. Common examples include ASUS’s Hypercards and Dell Ultra Speed controllers. These type of solutions support between 1 and 4 SSDs, largely function as simple upgrades, and are usually classified as “expansion cards”. They provide additional M.2 ports, and not much else. Some advanced solutions provide more features, such as the HP Z Turbo Drive, which is available with RAID capability, or HighPoint’s innovative Rocket 7608A PCIe Gen5 x16 NVMe AIC, which provides advanced RAID 0, 1 and 10 support in addition to 8 independent M.2 ports, and PCIe Switching architecture. However, the arguably lesser-known class of PCIe NVMe controller card, the NVMe Adapter, is among the most advanced and versatile storage connectivity solutions in today’s marketplace. What is an NVMe Adapter It is worth mentioning that there is some confusion around the term “adapter”. In fact, the term is most commonly used as a general descriptor rather than to denote a particular class of controller card. For example, the basic function of any NVMe controller card could qualify as an adapter – the card enables one type of device (an NVMe SSD) to connect to (or adapt to) another type of device or interface (such as a PCIe slot). This is not the same as an actual NVMe Adapter, such as the Broadcom P411W-32P Switch Adapter, or HighPoint’s Rocket 7600/1600 Adapter families. NVMe Adapters are specialized solutions, and usually intended for server or industrial applications. In fact, they are now most commonly employed by data center and Edge Server/Workstation environments. NVMe Adapters are used to support large configurations of 2.5” NVMe storage media – generally 4 to 32 U.2, U.3 or E3.S SSDs via various cabling solutions. The reason behind the general use-case is pretty straightforward - 2.5” form-factor NVMe SSDs are generally classified as Enterprise or Datacenter storage media, and are available with up 60TB of capacity; this is comparable to SAS/SATA media and many times larger than today’s densest M.2 SSD. The 2.5” form-factor requires considerably more real estate than M.2 or E1.S media – platforms will need mobile racks or a dedicated storage chassis to host the storage. Types of NVMe Adapters There are two primary classes of NVMe Adapter; Switch Adapters (like the forementioned Broadcom P411W-32P, and HighPoint Rocket 1628A), and RAID Adapters (such as the HighPoint Rocket 7628A). To clarify, Both classes of product typically employ PCIe Switching architecture  – this technology is not exclusive to cards classified as Switch Adapters. NVMe Switch Adapters  – this type of NVMe Adapter utilizes PCIe Switching technology to support 4 or more U.2, U.3 or E3.S NVMe SSDs. PCIe Switching Architecture enable these device to provide a wide range of features, such as Hot-Swap/Hot-Plug (ability to add or remove NVMe SSDs without powering down or rebooting the system) and the ability to support multiple SSDs per device port (as many as 8 for a total of 32). NVMe Switch Adapters are natively supported by modern operating system platforms; this means they require no additional software to operate (neither drivers nor applications). They will be automatically recognized by the host – any connected SSD will be available for immediate use. This can also streamline service and maintenance sessions, as the Adapter can remain fully operational during a kernel update or patch as support for their hardware is already embedded directly into the OS itself.   NVMe RAID Adapters (a.k.a. Pro-Class)  – often categorized as Pro-Class solutions, this type of NVMe Adapter adds RAID technology to the mix. In addition to matching the capabilities of Switch Adapters NVMe RAID Adapters can support one or more RAID arrays comprised of NVMe SSDs; most often RAID 0 or 1 configurations. Some advanced adapters, such as HighPoint Rocket 7628A, can host as many 4 separate arrays, including RAID 10 configurations, and bootable volumes. NVMe RAID Adapters often require unique device drivers and/or software applications to provide a full feature set. However, this also can provide several advantages. Unique drivers can be developed for specific operating systems or workflows, and tuned to maximize reliability and performance, and software suites can implement a host of management and monitoring capabilities that are not provided by the host OS. HighPoint’s Rocket 7628A is standout in this sense – in addition to a series of Graphical and Command-Line based RAID Management interfaces, the adapter includes a complete NVMe Sensor and Environmental Monitoring /Logging solution, which enables administrators to track and analyze power consumption and temperature of each SSD in real time via a series of easy-to-read graphs and line charts. This data is especially useful for applications that require storage capable of operating at peak I/O for extended durations, such as an AI/ML/LLM or hosting solution – the insights provided by the service can be used to optimize storage configurations for performance and reliability by studying SSD behavior during peak I/O. In addition, the adapter provides a host of pre-OS level tools in the form of OOB (out-of-band) management, HII and UEFI support. Benefits of NVMe Adapters NVMe Adapters provide many advantages over other NVMe solutions. The most obvious is the flexibility and massive storage capacity they can provide via a single PCIe slot– the ability to host a wide range of 2.5” NVMe SSD (both in terms of form factor and class), and the huge size of individual SSDs (up to 60TB each). NVMe Adapters can host Petabytes of storage vs AICs, which are measured in TB (or even GB in some cases). In addition, as NVMe Adapters were designed for enterprise hardware environments, most adhere to very strict industry standard chassis form factor and electrical specifications. They are built to withstand the rigors of 24/7 applications, utilize a compact Low-Profile form factor, and are highly power efficient. They are widely compatible with nearly any modern server or workstation platform, including compact rackmount chassis and industrial platforms that host PCIe devices via riser cards. Flexible Storage Connectivity One of the key strengths of an NVMe Adapter is flexibility. The ability to interface with a variety of storage chassis, such as internal 2.5” drive bays, Mobile Racks, or storage backplanes, enable these solutions to host a wide range of storage configurations. For example, HighPoint’s Rocket 7628A is equipped with four MCIO 8i ports, which accept any number of cabling solutions. These include direct to SSD connections such as MCIO to SFF-8639 (U.2/U.3 SSD), and MCIO to SFF-TA-1002 (E3.S SSDs). Options for backplane/mobile rack connectivity are even more diverse: MCIO to MCIO (PCIe Gen5/Gen4 media), MCIO to SFF-8654 (PCIe Gen4 media), MCIO to SFF-8643 (PCIe Gen3 media), and SFF-8612/8611 OCulink (for Gen4 and Gen4 media, respectively). Ideal for Vertical Applications The vast majority of NVMe Adapters are powered by PCIe Switching architecture, which is ideal for applications that need optimal transfer bandwidth and secure, reliable connectivity. Integrated Switch ICs enable these types of solutions to distribute bandwidth internally in order to maximize performance of the upstream and downstream ports. Switch ICs are also engineered to enhance signal clarity to minimize latency and streamline I/O throughput. This approach results in a highly reliable storage solution cable of delivering unparalleled transfer performance, with a high degree of flexibility to boot. NVME Adapters enable administrators to fine-tune storage configurations for a wide range of unique projects and workflows. A prime example is the Rocket 7628A Pro-Class NVMe RAID Adapter, which is powered by HighPoint’s High-Performance PCIe Gen5 Switch Architecture. Each adapter has x48 lanes of internal PCIe Gen5 bandwidth; by default, x16 lanes are dedicated to the upstream port (connection to the computing platform), and x4 lanes are dedicated to each of the 8 devices channels (32 total lanes). This ensures each SSD can perform optimally. However, bandwidth allocation is not static - it can be redistributed as needed. For example, the Adapter can be reconfigured to maximize port connectivity by assigning x1 lanes to 32 individual SSDs! 2.5” NVMe media is also incredibly diverse ; both in terms of SSD form factor (U.2, U.3 and E3.S), and in terms of target application. 2.5” NVMe media is available for both Enterprise and Datacenter applications, up to 60TB in capacity, with specialized sub-categories for applications that require optimal Sequential Read or Sequential Write capability, or a balanced approach (solid Random + Sequential Read/Write Performance). The following table is just a sampling of SSD media supported by NVMe Adapters: Make / Model PCIe Gen Form Factor Class Capacity Performance Characteristics / Use Case Kioxia CD8P-R 5 U.2 Datacenter 19,20 to 30,720GB Read Intensive – Sequential Performance Kioxia CD8P-V 5 U.2 Datacenter 19,20 to 30,720GB Mix-Use Micron 7500Pro 4 U.3 Datacenter 800GB – 15.36TB Read Intensive – Sequential Performance Micron 7500Max 4 U.3 Datacenter 800GB – 15.36TB Mixed-use Kioxia CM7-R 5 U.3 Enterprise 19,20 to 30,720GB High-Performance Computing (HPC) Samsung PM1743 5 U.2 Enterprise 1,920 to 15,360GB High-Performance Computing (HPC) Samsung PM1733A 4 U.2 Enterprise 1,920 to 15,360GB Read Intensive – Random Performance Solidigm D5-P5336 4 U.2, E3.S Datacenter 7.68 to 61.44TB Read Intensive – Sequential Performance Installation & Storage Configurations NVMe Adapters are simple to install. The cards are generally low-profile, and can easily fit into the most compact computing chassis. Switch Adapters require nothing aside from physical installation, and are essentially plug-and-play devices. RAID Controllers require driver and/or software applications, but much of this is done via a “wizard” installer and requires little input from the administrator. RAID Adapters do, however, require the use of Management and Configuration interfaces. As professional solutions this is expected - some IT background is certainly useful, but not necessarily a hard requirement. HighPoint’s WebGUI is incredibly user friendly, and appeals to first-time users and veteran Administrators alike. Everything is broken down into simple drop-down menus and button clicks. Advanced users will appreciate the finer details, however. The interface provides minute to minute data on each hosted SSD, including S.M.A.R.T. attributes, temperature and even endurance ratings (TBW/DWPD). As discussed previously, NVMe Adapters host NVMe media via cable connectivity. The cables can be connected directly to the NVMe SSDs, or to specialized computer board known as a storage backplane. Learn More About NVMe Cabling Solutions The cables for direct-to-SSD configurations typically include power connectors, and each cable supports two SSDs. Connector types include SFF-8639 (U.2 & U.3 media) and SFF-TA-1002 (for E3.S SSDs).   SFF-8639 (with power connector) Backplanes are used by Mobile Racks and storage chassis. One side of the backplane provides connectors for the SSDs (generally 2.5” drive trays and SFF-8639). Cable designed for backplane connectivity support a wide range of connector types including MCIO 8i (for Gen4 and Gen5 media), SFF-8654 (Gen4 media), SFF-8643 (Gen3 media), and OCulink (SFF-8611/SFF-8612 for Gen3 and Gen4 media). Use-Cases & Applications As discussed previously, NVMe Adapters were designed to host a large number of 2.5” NVMe SSDs (U.2/U.3/E3.S) which are designed for enterprise server environments. Datacenters, large-scale hosting and virtualization solutions, enterprise business servers, and Edge Servers are the primary targets. Such applications require reliable, easily-serviced high-density storage solutions capable of accommodating a variety of workflows. Specialized industrial workstations that require high-random or mixed read-write performance characteristics and a high level of storage capacity can reap huge rewards from an NVMe Adapter-based storage solution. RAID Adapters provide administrators with a great deal of flexibility due to a rich feature set and fault-tolerance (data redundancy). HighPoint’s Rocket 7628A can host bootable RAID 1 and 10 volumes, which are ideal for SMB file servers, Media Libraries and even home theatre applications. High-Speed Data Ingestion / Data Acquisition As the names suggest, these type of applications require storage solutions capable of rapidly capturing large amount of incoming data, often ingested/acquired from sensors or cameras. Examples include Machine Learning (ML), AI Training, Driver Assistance Systems (Automotive), and various Audio-Video platforms (AV) ranging from motion capture solutions to high-resolution security systems. NVMe RAID Adapters are especially adept at these tasks, as RAID 0 striping can leverage multiple 2.5” SSDs to enhance response times while maximizing transfer performance and capacity. Data Processing / Analysis Applications that rapidly analyze and process data (often from a High-Speed Ingestion system) require high-density storage solutions capable of optimizing transfer and I/O performance; a perfect fit for 2.5” NVMe media. Examples include Scientific and Engineering simulations, online transaction servers, and medical diagnosis platforms. Storage Archiving 2.5” NVMe media is beginning to rival SAS/SATA drives in terms of capacity, and the speed advantage is obvious. For this reason, U.2, U.3 and E3.S media is increasingly used to upgrade data archives, asset libraries, and large-scale cloud-computing services. NVMe adapters can leverage large banks of 2.5” media to provide exceptionally fast (60+ GB/s) and dense (nearly 5PB) storage via a single PCIe slot, and are a natural fit for such applications. NVMe Pro-Class/RAID Adapters RAID 1 and 10 capability can be used to enhance data security and reliability of data archives. RAID Adapters offer more flexibility when it comes to use-cases, due to a rich feature set and fault-tolerance (data redundancy). HighPoint’s Rocket 7628A can host bootable RAID 1 and 10 volumes, which are ideal for SMB file servers, Media Libraries and even home theatre applications. Customers could opt for a direct-to-SSD cabling solution for 4 to 8 SSDs. While pricey compared to many AIC solutions, enterprise reliability, speed and massive storage capacity make for a worthy investment. Maximizing Storage Potential   In summary, an NVMe Adapter can maximize the potential of your storage infrastructure. Whether you're looking to enhance performance, increase capacity, or ensure data reliability, NVMe adapters provide a wealth of features and capabilities that enable them to rapidly adapt to wide range of platform and applications. The robust enterprise-grade material, design and construction facilitate seamless integration and enhance field serviceability, making them an ideal solution for data-intensive AI, ML and LLM server and workstation environments.   By incorporating NVMe Adapters into your system, you're not just adding storage; you're unlocking new possibilities for data management, performance optimization, and future growth. Embrace the future of storage with NVMe Adapters and ensure your infrastructure is ready for the demands of tomorrow's data-driven world.

As industries increasingly incorporate AI driven technology into their workflows, the need for a faster, denser storage solutions is on the rise. NVMe media is the storage of choice for many applications, as single NVMe SSDs are capable of delivering performance on par with an entire rack of SAS/SATA devices. PCIe AICs and Adapter cards are one of the most effective ways to deploy NVMe storage in modern computing environments. NVMe AICs and Adapter solutions provide a wealth of benefits for AI driven applications, and as most require only a single PCIe slot, they can be easily integrated into any industry standard x86 server or workstation, even compact, custom-configured GPU servers and industrial platforms. Pro-Class NVMe AICs and Adapters represent the cream of the crop – in addition the aggregation of NVMe storage configurations, Pro-Class solutions can bring a range of innovative features and technologies to the table, such as robust management and monitoring suites, the ability to create and host RAID arrays, and support for SED (self-encrypting disks), which can substantially enhance the security and reliability of critical storage assets.   The following article explores the concept of the NVMe AICs and Adapters, with an emphasis on advanced, Pro-Class varieties, and explores how these storage form factors can impact high-speed applications in the following ways:   Increased Productivity : NVMe media’s ability to interface directly with the host CPU(s) can dramatically boost data processing speeds and facilitate a more efficient workflow. NVMe AICs & Adapters were designed to leverage multiple SSDs to enhance these attributes even further.   Scalability : NVMe AICs and Adapters can support multiple NVMe SSDs per PCIe slot. Multiple device channels enable administrators to add or remove media as needed to address the needs of each application. Unique offerings, such as HighPoint’s PCIe Gen5 Pro-Class series AICs and Adapters solutions can combine up to 8 independent SSDs to maximize capacity and performance via RAID technology. HighPoint’s Value-Series Adapters can support an astonishing number of devices; up to 32 via a storage backplane.   Cost Efficiency : No longer exotic media, NVMe SSDs are now readily available in a variety of form factors, capacities, and classes, ranging from client M.2 SSDs to datacenter class EDSFF media and enterprise grade 2.5” U.2/U.3 drives.   Flexible Solutions : NVMe AICs and Adapters enable administrators to take full advantage of NVMe storage technology. Value Series solutions can function as simple, plug-and-play storage upgrades, as they are natively supported by most operating systems and require no driver or software installation. Pro-Series takes things even further and offer a selection of advanced features such as integrated RAID technology, Hot-Swap and Hot-Plug capability (the ability to add or remove SSDs and arrays on the fly), Data Encryption, and complete storage management/monitoring solutions. Pro-Class solutions enable administrators to rapidly deploy NVMe storage configurations for a wide range of applications, workflows and platforms. Getting to Know NVMe AICs and NVMe Adapters   NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) is the current standard for high-performance storage devices like solid state disks (SSDs) and flash memory. NVMe devices use the system’s PCIe host interface to interact directly with the host platform’s CPU or CPUs. This architecture facilitates significantly faster response time, lower latency, and superior transfer performance — particularly compared to SAS, SATA and other conventional alternatives. NVMe Storage devices come in numerous form factors such as compact M.2 and E1.S SSDs , 2.5” U.2, U.3 and E3.S media, or PCIe add-in devices. For many applications, PCIe NVMe AICs (add-in-cards) and adapters are the most effective choice:   · NVMe AICs (add-in cards) are independent PCIe controller cards designed to directly host NVMe media. You can plug them into an open PCIe slot to quickly add NVMe storage or expand storage available capacity. · Like NVMe AICs, NVMe adapters are PCIe add-in-cards. However, instead of hosting storage directly, most adapters host NVMe media via device cables. The cables can be connected directly to the SSDs themselves, or to a storage backplane. Leveraging multiple NVMe SSDs via a PCIe Adapter or AIC can result in a powerful data solution. Users can take advantages of blazing-fast, high-density storage in a compact, universal form factor.   Key Features and Benefits of NVMe AICs & Adapters   NVMe AICs and Adapters do more than just make storage upgrades more convenient. Their industry-standard form factor, universal PCIe connectivity and ability to host multiple NVMe SSDs make them ideal storage and performance upgrades for a wide range of server and workstation applications.   · Consistently high performance · Effortless scalability – multiple device ports enable you greatly expand available storage capacity · Universal PCIe interface and form factor compatibility · Improved power efficiency, durability, and reliability · Highly Flexible: different classes of solutions provide unique feature sets and allow you to tailor unique storage configurations for any application or workflow   Consistently High Performance   The undeniable performance advantages provided by NVMe AICs and Adapters is a huge factor in their success.   Superior NVMe SSD Performance: NVMe SSDs transfer data far faster than their SAS and SATA counterparts. For instance, with a single Gen4 NVMe SSD, you might see transfer speeds up to 7,000MB/s. Upgrading to a Gen5 SSD would double this to 14,000MB/s. For comparison, SAS and SATA SSDs max out at around 500MB-1000MB/s.   Performance Aggregation:   Advanced   NVMe AICs can directly host and leverage up to 8 individual NVMe SSDs. Those capable of running at x16 PCIe speeds, such as HighPoint’s SSD and Rocket series product lines, can maximize per-slot performance. This results in breathtaking real-world transfer speeds; 14,000MB/s for Gen3, 28,000MB/s for Gen4, and an astounding 56,000MB/s for Gen5!   Ultra Low-Latency: Latency is significantly lower with NVMe media. Because NVMe accesses the host CPU directly, response time is immediate. Processing times also drop, which lowers overall latency. Advanced NVMe AICs, in particular, those that utilize PCIe Switch Architecture, all but eliminate lag.   Higher Input/Output Operations Per Second (IOPS): NVMe AICs IOPS rates outpace other storage solutions. These devices also excel at random read/write operations, making them a go-to solution for high-performance applications that depend on rapid data retrieval and storage.   Effortless Scalability   NVMe AICs and adapters simplify scalability and storage upgrade paths. When upgrading using individual NVMe SSDs, you'll quickly hit a wall: motherboards only offer so many built-in M.2 ports. In contrast, PCIe NVMe AICs and adapters accomplish much more with and only need a single PCIe slot. Instead settle for single drive when you can add up to 32! Advanced Pro-Class NVMe AICs like   HighPoint’s PCIe Gen5 x16 Rocket 7608A Switch AIC  provide up to 8 independent device ports – this enables you to add 8 M.2 SSDs to your platform without having to invest in any other storage related hardware – no drive bays, no cabling, no additional power or cooling concerns. Advanced NVMe Adapters can provide even more flexibility when it comes to storage expansion. HighPoint’s Pro-Class Rocket 7628A PCIe Gen5 x16 RAID Adapter  can be configured to support multiple storage backplanes via its four MCIO ports, and is an ideal solution for platforms equipped with 2.5” drive bays or mobile racks, like Edge SMB, and Enterprise Servers or platforms that employ HCI (hyperconverged infrastructure technology). · Expand or Upgrade Storage Capacity:  You can easily add or replace drives using multiple device channels and ports to optimize space and bandwidth. Advanced NVMe Adapters can even support Hot-Swap and Hot-Plug, which allows you to add or remove SSDs on the fly! · Build Multi-Drive Configurations: Some NVMe Add-in cards support resiliency-oriented multi-drive configurations, like RAID 1 mirroring, which can add redundancy to bootable, or RAID 0, which can combine a group of SSDs to act as a single unit in order to optimize performance and storage capacity over a full x16 lanes of PCIe host bandwidth.   Universal Interface and Form Factor Compatibility   Most industry-standard computing platforms support PCIe devices. This makes NVMe AICs a perfect fit, and having many form factor options at disposal doesn’t hurt: · Low-Profile: Also commonly referred to as “Half-Height”, NVMe Adapters and 2-port AICs often use this form factor to fit in small spaces. This form factor is perfect for compact industrial platforms, desktops and rackmount servers. · Full-Height, Full-Length: Many 4- and 8-channel M.2 NVMe AICs use this form factor to pack in more drives. Though larger than a Low-Profile device, these cards are considerably more compact than a full-size graphics card. · Full-Height/Full-Length/Dual-Width: 8-Channel E1.S AICs may demand more space – these cards are roughly the size of a high-end GPU (graphics card). However, this form factor packs quite a punch. E1.S combines enterprise reliability and performance with the convenience of M.2 media. HighPoint’s SSD7749E  AIC is the prime example. PCIe Connectivity:   Right out of the box, the   PCIe connectivity of NVMe AICs and Adapters provides two distinct benefits: universal compatibility and easy installation . While it's essential to match up your PCIe "x" lanes ( there's a big difference between electrical lane bandwidth and physical slot size ), NVMe AIC and Adapters are available for every application and form factor.   The takeaway? You can upgrade almost any modern or recent legacy computing platform with an NVMe AIC. Look closely and you'll find these devices employed everywhere, from compact rackmount servers and industrial mini-PCs to tower desktop workstations and high-end gaming rigs!   Improved Power Efficiency, Durability, and Reliability   NVMe AICs are highly power efficient, wasting far less energy than SAS/SATA media. This is better for data centers and high-performance computing environments. These devices also excel at energy and heat management: · More Sustainable Power Consumption: NVMe AICs are just engineered differently. They consume less power than traditional storage solutions, lowering operational costs. · Dedicated Heat Dissipation: Advanced NVMe AICs include built-in cooling hardware. Needing to add more platform-level cooling is a thing of the past. More efficient heat management also avoids thermal throttling, ensures optimal performance, increases SSD longevity, and improves reliability.   NMVe AICs vs. the Alternatives   NVMe AICs are a worthwhile investment because they achieve what alternative technologies can't:   · SATA Looks Downright Slow by Comparison. NVMe AIC performance completely outclasses SATA-based solutions. This even holds true for PCIe Gen3 NVMe media. Cost-effective Gen3 SSDs offers 3,500MB/s of transfer speed, beating today’s fastest SATA SSDs by a factor of seven. · SAS Can't Keep Up . NVMe AICs offer significantly lower latency and vastly higher data transfer rates than SAS drives. · Standalone NVMe SSDs are fast but limited in capacity . Relying on single NVMe SSDs will only net you x4 bus speed and 61.44TB a piece. In contrast, NVMe AICs and Adapters can combine multiple SSDs to boost performance and total capacity. · NVMe Adapters Support U.2/U.3 and EDSFF Media. You can build extremely high-capacity solutions with industry-standard 2.5” NVMe devices. This type of solution is easy for many to transition to, especially if they are already familiar with SAS/SATA technology. U.2, U.3 and E3.S (EDFSS) utilize the long standing 2.5” form factor and associated chassis hardware. Adapters with PCIe Switch technology, such as HighPoint’s Pro-Class Rocket 7628A , can be configured to support as many as 32 61.44TB NVMe SSDs from a single slot; this can result in nearly 5 petabytes of storage at PCIe Gen5 x16 speeds! · M.2 and EI.S NVMe AICs Can Directly Host the Storage Media Without Cabling.  They make building compact, high-speed, all-in-one storage solutions a simple task. They enable you to instantly add up to 61TB of M.2 or E1.S storage with x16 lanes of performance using a single PCIe device! Classes of NVMe AICs & Adapters In most cases, NVMe AICs/Adapters are not one-size fits all solutions. To determine which is the right solution for your application, it’s important to understand the types of solutions available in today’s marketplace.   AICs/Adapters are classified into four main categories or classes, based on PCIe architecture:   · PCIe Controller · PCIe Switch · PCIe Retimer · PCIe Redriver   This section will discuss each type of architecture, and summarize the Pros and Cons associated with each technology.   A. PCIe NVMe Controller            1. What is a PCIe NVMe Controller            A PCIe NVMe Controller is simply a PCIe to NVMe controller card. It does not employ any particular            technology to enhance NVMe performance or scalability, and really only provides NVMe device ports or            device channels. It is the most basic form of PCIe add-in NVMe solution, and also the most common.            For example, many of the default NVMe expansion accessories for various platforms (such as factory-            built Dell, HP or ASUS computers) are simply ordinary controller cards that function as a basic M.2 to            PCIe adapter. This class of AIC/Adapter is also fully dependent on host bifurcation – they rely on the            host CPU to allocate PCIe lanes and process all I/O requests. Faster that SAS/SATA? Sure, but still            entry-level when it comes to NVMe storage.            Applications : General computing; office platforms or home PCs and budget gaming rigs.            2. Pros of a PCIe NVMe Controller : In summary, cost and simplicity. Most of these solutions are offered            in an accessory format, are pre-tested and configured for a specific make/model or range of PC            platforms, and are relatively affordable. They are a simple way to add more M.2 ports to as system.              3. Cons of a PCIe NVMe Controller : These devices tend to provide basic M.2 connectivity and not            much else. Most are limited to 1, 2 or 4 ports (max), and few, if any, can provide a full x4 lanes for each            SSD. Performance and drive count is ultimately determined by the host computer. As touched upon            earlier, these devices rely on system-side bifurcation to function; that is, they are 100% dependent on            the host platform for PCIe lane assignment. This often limits the number of supported SSDs, and SSD            performance may be limited to x1 lanes, regardless of the PCIe host interface (be it Gen3 4 or 5). B. PCIe Switch       1. What is a PCIe Switch?            An NVMe AIC or Adapter with an architecture based on PCIe Switch technology can be thought of as            operating like a network switch for PCIe lanes; it can distribute PCIe lanes to each hosted NVMe device            (some can handle as many as 144 lanes internally!), and can offload I/O requests from the host            computer’s CPU. PCIe Switches were developed for professional workflows that demand maximum            performance, massive storage capability and enhanced flexibility when it comes to configuring storage            devices. PCIe Switches allow hosted NVMe devices (SSDs) can communicate with each other directly            through the AIC or adapter, as opposed to other architectures, where the I/O requests to and from each            SSD must first go through the host CPU. HighPoint NVMe AICs and Adapters employ this type of            architecture. A break-down of this innovative technology is provided here .            Applications : PCIe switches are commonly used in data centers, and high-performance            professional/industrial server and workstation environments where multiple NVMe devices must be            hosted and managed simultaneously, without burdening the host CPU.       2. Pros of PCIe Switch in an NVMe AIC/Adapter          Scalability : PCIe switches enable the connection of multiple NVMe drives to a single device channel          and/or PCIe slot, providing excellent scalability for storage expansion. PCI switches allow for high          number of device ports (up to eight vs. other architectures, which usually cap SSD count to 4, max). In          addition, each device port can be configured to host multiple SSDs. HighPoint’s Rocket 7628A RAID          Adapter  can be configured can host as many as 32 individual U.2/U.3/E3.SNVMe SSDs via 8 Device          Ports.           Performance & Flexibility : They allow dynamic allocation of PCIe lanes. PCIe Switch AICs/Adapters,           such as HighPoint Rocket and SSD series solutions, have x48 internal lanes, x16 of which are allocated           to the upstream port (connection to the host platform), with x4 lanes to each hosted NVMe SSD. This           technology ensures the AIC/Adapter can maximize real-world transfer performance over each PCIe x16           slot (up to 14,000MB/s for Gen3, 28,000MB/s for Gen4, and 56,000MB/s for Gen5). 3. Cons of PCIe Switch in an NVMe AIC/Adapter Complexity : Implementing a PCIe switch adds complexity to the AIC/Adapter design, requiring precise engineering. Cost : PCIe switches can be expensive, increasing the overall cost of the NVMe AIC/Adapter solution. C.   PCIe Retimer           1. What is a PCIe Retimer? PCIe Retimer is designed to regenerate (or repeat) the PCIe signal to           extend its range and improve integrity (strength/reliability of the signal). They are capable of equalizing,           amplifying the signal to ensure consistency and reliable data transmission over longer distances.           Applications : Retimers are used in systems with extensive cabling; situations where the PCIe signal           needs to travel over longer distances without degradation.           2. Pros of PCIe Retimer in an NVMe AIC/Adapter:          Signal Integrity : As mentioned previously, the ability to regenerate the PCIe signal ensures reliable data           transmission over long distances. Which leads to….           Long-Distance Support : They allow PCIe signals to travel further without degradation. This can           potentially add flexibility when designing the system.           3. Cons of PCIe Retimer in an NVMe AIC/Adapter:           High Cost : Retimers are relatively expensive, adding to the cost of the overall system.           High Power Consumption : Retimers consume much more power compared to simpler signal           enhancement technologies like a PCIe Redriver.           Limited by Host bifurcation : PCIe NVMe Retimers provide a maximum of 4 NVMe ports, and are           subject to host bifurcation. For example, common solutions built around the Intel z790 limit direct CPU           lanes to one at x16 or two at x8. This results in a performance bottleneck, as lanes can only be           distributed as either x8 or x16 – SSDs need x4 to perform optimally, so the extra bandwidth is essentially           wasted (as it can’t be applied to other SSDs).   D. PCIe Redriver           1. What is a PCIe Redriver?  Similar in concept to PCIe Retimers, A PCIe Redriver can amplify the PCIe           signal to compensate for signal loss, though over shorter distances and without the regenerative           capability. This can boost signal strength to overcome attenuation and improve overall signal quality.           Aorus’s PCIe Gen5 AICs utilize this technology.           Applications : Redrivers are employed in scenarios where minor signal degradation needs to be           corrected over short to moderate distances.           2. Pros of PCIe Redriver in an NVMe AIC/Adapter:           Signal Boost : Redrivers can boost the PCIe signal to overcome minor losses, ensuring better signal           quality.           Cost-Effectiveness : They are generally more affordable than Retimers or PCIe Switches, providing a           cost-effective solution for improving signal quality.           3. Cons of PCIe Redriver in an NVMe AIC/Adapter           Limited Functionality : Redrivers only amplify the signal and do not regenerate it, which means they are           less effective for long-distance signal transmission.           Noise : Amplifying the signal can also amplify noise, which can potentially affect signal quality and latency           if not managed properly.           Limited by Host bifurcation : As with PCIe NVMe Retimers, PCIe NVMe Redrivers are subject to host           bifurcation, and can suffer from the same performance bottlenecks. Bandwidth distribution is limited to           specific configurations, which usually results in a handicap for each SSD.            E. Still wondering which is best for your app? Consider, Use Cases by Industry           Data Centers : High-density storage solutions benefit from PCIe switches for scalability and flexibility,           while Retimers can be used for extended signal reach in large setups.           High-Performance Computing : PCIe Switches can maximize performance and device count. Both           Retimers and Redrivers are used to maintain signal integrity across complex HPC environments.           Industrial & Enterprise Applications : PCIe switches enable efficient resource management and           expansion, while Retimers can ensure reliable signal transmission in extensive enterprise networks. NVMe AIC Use Cases   NVMe AICs and Adapters can improve the performance, scalability and productivity of an immense range of applications and workflows. We’ve classified the most common by PCIe Generation.   Applications that can benefit from a PCIe Gen3 NVMe AIC or Adapter While not as fast as PCIe Gen4, Gen3 NVMe AICs and Adapters still offer substantial benefits over traditional SAS/SATA storage solutions, making them suitable for a wide range of use cases.   Desktop Workstations Benefits:  Enhance storage performance and productivity for everyday tasks. Use Cases:  Home/Office computing solutions   SMB file or networking servers Benefits:  Improved data access speeds and reliability for day-to-day business workflows Use Cases:  SMB Applications   Data Backup and Archiving Benefits:  Quicker data backup and retrieval processes. Use Case:  Local backup solutions, long-term data storage, and archival systems.   Home Media Servers Benefits:  Smooth streaming and quick access to media files. Use Cases:  Home theater PCs (HTPCs), media streaming servers, and personal cloud storage/ Web Development   Educational and Research Labs: Benefits:  Improved storage performance for academic projects and data analysis Use Cases : Computer labs, research projects, and student workstations. Virtualization:   SMB Virtualization Solutions Benefit:  Better I/O performance for virtual machines. Use Case:  Development and testing of virtualized environments, small-scale VMs.   Home/SMB Video Surveillance Systems: Benefits:  Enhanced data recording and retrieval speeds for surveillance footage. Use Cases:  Home and small business security systems, CCTV setups.   Lightweight Database Applications: Benefits:  Enhanced performance for small to medium-sized databases. Use Cases:  Local database servers, small business inventory systems, and CRM systems.   While considered legacy technology, PCIe Gen3 NVMe AICs and Adapters can significantly enhance the performance of a wide range of day-to-day applications and SMB workflows by providing faster data access and improving the overall responsiveness of the host platform. Applications that will benefit from PCIe Gen 4 x16 AICs and Adapters   Most mainstream applications will see immediate benefit from a PCIe NVMe Gen 4 x16 AIC (Add-In Card) or Adapter Solution:   High-Performance Computing (HPC): Benefits:  Maximizes data throughput and lowers latency for applications that process large data sets and complex computations. Use Cases:  Scientific simulations, engineering computations, and data-intensive research.   4K/8K Media Editing & Post-Production Platforms Benefits:  High-speed data transfer and playback for large video/audio files, enabling real-time editing and faster rendering. Use Cases:  Professional video editing platforms, video/audio effects, 3D rendering and content creation, and color grading.   Database Management Systems (DBMS): Benefits : Enhanced read/write speeds and IOPS, which reduces query response times and increases transaction rates. Use Case s: Enterprise-level databases, real-time analytics, and large-scale data warehousing applications   Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML): Benefits : Faster data loading and model training, supporting high-throughput and parallel processing. Use Case s: Training neural networks, running AI models, and big data analytics.   Virtualization & Cloud Infrastructure : Benefits : Dramatically elevates IOPS and transfer bandwidth, which enhances VM performance and storage efficiency. Use Case s: High-density virtual machine hosting, cloud storage solutions, and enterprise cloud services.   Financial Services: Benefit s: Facilitates ultra-low latency and high-speed transactions, which is crucial for financial applications. Use Cases : High-frequency trading platforms, market data analysis, and financial modeling.   Scientific Research and High-Speed Data Acquisition: Benefits : High-speed data capture and processing capability enables real-time analysis and faster insights. Use Case s: Large-scale scientific experiments, sensor data acquisition, and experimental data processing.   Big Data Analytics: Benefit:  Accelerates access to large datasets and enhances data processing and analysis capabilities. Use Case : Real-time analytics solutions, business intelligence applications, and large-scale data processing workflows   Content Delivery Networks (CDN): Benefits : Massive data throughput capabilities combined with reduced latency can significantly improve and streamline content delivery. Use Case : Media Streaming Services, high-traffic web content delivery, and global content distribution   Gaming and Virtual Reality (VR): Benefits : On the production side, the superior performance and transfer bandwidth can improve productivity. On the user front, it can reduce game load times and improved performance for resource and data-intensive games and VR applications. Use Cases : High-end gaming setups, VR & game development, and immersive gaming experiences.   Backup & Disaster Recovery: Benefits : Rapid backup and restoration can minimize downtime and the risk of data loss. Use Cases : Enterprise backup solutions, disaster recovery plans, for high-availability systems.   CAD/CAM & 3D Modeling: Benefits : rapidly load and render complex models and designs Use Cases : AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and other 3D modeling and design software.   Healthcare & Medical Imaging: Benefits : Quick access to large medical images and patient data, enhancing diagnostic capabilities. Use Cases : MRI/CT scan storage, electronic health records (EHR), and medical research databases.   E-Commerce Platforms: Benefits : Enhances transaction processing speeds to improves efficiency and customer experience Use Cases : Large-scale e-commerce websites, processing online transactions, and inventory management   Streaming and Media Production: Benefits : Faster data transfer rates support high-quality streaming and media production workflows Use Cases : Live streaming services, content creation, and media production studios.   Network Attached Storage (NAS): Benefits : Improves data access speeds, transfer performance and reliability for network storage solutions Use Cases : professional NAS solutions, data centers, and high-capacity storage networks   PCIe Gen 4 x16 AICs and Adapters provide substantial performance improvements over Gen3 solutions, and are ideal for applications that require high-speed data transfer, low latency, and robust storage capacity.   Applications that benefit from PCIe Gen 5 x16 AICs and Adapters   Cutting Edge Computing applications that employ PCIe Gen5 capable computing platforms can reap huge rewards from a PCIe Gen 5 x16 AIC (Add-In Card) or Adapter Solution:   High-Performance Computing (HPC): Benefits : Exceptional data throughput and minimized latency for complex, data-intensive computations. Use Cases : Advanced simulations, large-scale scientific research projects & engineering computations   Ultra-High-Resolution Video Editing & Post-Production Workflows Benefits : Unmatched speed for transferring massive 8K/16K video files, which enables real-time editing and rapid rendering Use Cases : Professional video production, audio/visual special effects platforms, and high-resolution video processing   Advanced Database Management Systems (DBMS): Benefits:  Superior read/write speeds and IOPS can dramatically reduce query response times while boosting transaction throughput Use Cases : High-frequency trading databases, large-scale enterprise databases, and real-time analytics platforms   Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning (AI/ML): Benefits : Massive boost to data ingestion and model training facilitates high-throughput and parallel processing workflows Use Cases : Training deep neural networks, running complex AI models, and extensive data analytics   Virtualization and Cloud Infrastructure: Benefits : Higher IOPS and bandwidth, significantly improving VM performance and storage efficiency. Use Cases : Large-scale virtual machine hosting, cloud storage solutions, and high-performance enterprise cloud services.   Scientific Research and Real-Time Data Acquisition: Benefits : Ultra-fast data capture and processing capabilities enable immediate analysis and faster insights Use Cases : Real-time scientific experiments, large-scale data collection, and experimental data processing Big Data Analytics: Benefits:  Unparalleled access speed to massive datasets, enhancing data processing and real-time analytics. Use Cases:  Real-time business intelligence, advanced analytics platforms, and large-scale data processing tasks.   Content Delivery Networks (CDN): Benefits:  Superior data throughput and reduced latency, enhancing content delivery speed and reliability. Use Case:  High-speed streaming services, global web content delivery, and large-scale content distribution.   Gaming and Virtual Reality (VR): Benefits:  Builds on Gen4 solutions by further reducing load times and enhancing performance for resource intensive titles and VR applications. On the production side, Gen5 NVMe storage provides blazing fast, low-latency workspace for development and rendering platforms. Use Cases:  Cutting-edge gaming PCs, VR/Game development   CAD/CAM and 3D Modeling: Benefits : Significantly reduces load times and rendering speed of highly detailed models and designs. Use Cases : Professional CAD/CAM software, 3D modeling applications, and design simulation tools   Healthcare and Advanced Scientific/Medical Imaging Solutions: Benefits : Supports ultra-high resolution capture equipment and provides instant access to large medical images and patient data, which improves the speed and accuracy of the diagnostic process. Use Cases : High-resolution MRI/CT scan storage & electron microscopy, advanced electronic health records (EHR) systems, and medical research databases.   Future NVMe AIC/Adapter Trends   NVMe technology continues to evolve, and new performance enhancements mean NVMe AICs and Adapters are continually improving. As high-volume data applications and use cases expand, the demand for NVMe AICs and Adapters will also grow. Increasing quantities of data require faster, more reliable storage. Conclusion   NVMe AIC and Adapters represents the future of storage technology. Previous generation solutions and current alternatives simply can't compete on performance, efficiency, or scalability. The proof lies in how wide and far NVMe AIC and adapter technology has been deployed, after just a few years on the market. These devices already power applications from enterprise data centers to personal gaming systems. Without NVMe AICs and adapters, many features and abilities of the modern computing environments we take for granted might not be possible.

Sourcing the right cabling for your NVMe PCIe adapter card is of critical importance when planning, building and ultimately maintaining NVMe storage solutions that employ U.2, U.3 or EDSFF form-factor NVMe media, and external enclosures or drive chassis. Proper cabling ensures robust, reliable connectivity, optimal transfer performance, and ease of serviceability. The following article covers the basics of NVMe cabling solutions, and discusses some of the more common types of connectivity interfaces associated with PCIe NVMe Adapters, storage backplanes, 2.5” & EDSFF NVMe media, and external storage solutions.   Attributes & Features of NVMe Cabling Performance NVMe is synonymous with High-Performance, and your choice of cabling solution can make or break the viability of your storage configuration. The performance of external and 2.5” NVMe storage solutions are heavily dependent on the quality and type of cabling in place. High-quality cables that are designed to minimize latency and maximize available host bandwidth are essential for maximizing data transfer speed. Shoddy design and sub-standard materials are associated with budget cable solutions, and can lead to increased latency, instability and performance loss. NVMe SSDs perform optimally when allocated x4 lanes of PCIe host bandwidth. If maximizing performance is your goal, you will want to source cables capable of providing x4 lanes for each NVMe SSD. Scalability By default, most NVMe cables are already designed to host multiple storage devices; whether via direct connection to the NVMe SSDs (such as an SFF-8639 cable designed for U.2/IU.3 media), or through a backplane, such as an MCIO-to-MCIO connection (SFF-1016). As such, selecting the right cable can dramatically improve the scalability of an NVMe storage configuration. The ability to support more than one device per connector port, and quickly address the need for more or less storage capacity, provides a high degree of flexibility. This would enable administrators to adapt the storage solution to various applications and workflows, and can help future-proof the solution as storage technology evolves (such as the availability of larger SSDs, or new SSD form factors). Serviceability and Ease of Maintenance Professional NVMe cabling solutions typically employ industry-standard connectors, which provide latching systems to ensure a secure, reliable connection between the host computing platform and NVMe storage media. This is especially important for external storage devices, or devices that rely on a portable storage enclosure, such as HighPoint’s SSD6780A. Most quality cables feature quick release latches to improve serviceability in the field. In addition, direct to media cables may include power connectors for the SSDs in order to simplify setup and integration procedures   Hot-Plug / Hot-Swap Capability  - Hot-Swap and Hot-Plug capability are essential feature of professional server platform – they enable administrators to safely add or remove individual SSDs without rebooting the OS or powering down the host system. Hot-Swap capable drive bays, when paired with quick release cables are ideal for Hot-Swap capable NVMe Storage solutions, such as HighPoint’s Rocket 1628A  and Rocket 7628A  PCIe Gen5 x16 NVMe Adapters.   Cabling Applications and Configurations Supported NVMe Drive Form Factors While, NVMe drives come in various form factors, NVMe cabling solutions are generally associated with PCIe NVMe Adapter cards designed for use with 2.5” (U.2/U.3) and EDSFF (Enterprise & Datacenter SSD Form Factor) NVMe media. In contrast, M.2 or E1.S SSDs rarely employ device cables, as they are typically connected directly to the host controller itself, such as a system/motherboard’s internal NVMe ports, or to an PCIe NVMe AIC (add-in-card). PCIe NVMe Adapter Card (HighPoint Rocket 1580 PCIe Gen4 x16 8-Channel NVMe Adapter) The card features four SFF-8654 ports, each of which provides x8 lanes of PCIe Gen4 bandwidth, and can accept a variety of cabling solutions for U.2 and U.3 SSD configurations. Direct to Device Configurations   Some NVMe cables are designed to provide a direct connection to the NVMe SSDs. SFF-8639 connectors are employed by industry standard U.2 and U.3 media, while SFF-TA-1002 connectors are often associated with EDSFF media such as E3.S SSDs. Most direct to device cables provide multiple connectors for the SSDs (typically two per cable), and single connector for the host NVMe controller/Adapter. For example, many PCIe Gen4 NVMe Adapters utilize SFF-8654 ports  – you would need an SFF-8654 to SFF-8639 to directly host U.2/U.3 media. Storage Backplane Configurations Storage backplanes are generally associated with rackmount storage chassis and mobile rack storage devices. They provide the cabling interface for the PCIe NVMe Adapter/Controller and the NVMe SSDs, which are typically installed into removable 2.5” drive bays. Proper NVMe cabling ensures that these backplanes can support high-speed data transfer to and from each hosted NVMe device. Common backplane connectors include MCIO 8i (SFF-1016) which is suitable for PCIe Gen5 media, SFF-8654 which is ideal for PCIe Gen4 SSDs, SFF-8643 (which is typically used by PCIe 3.0 NVMe Storage backplanes), and OCulink SFF-8611 /SFF-8612,which support PCIe Gen4 / Gen4 backplanes (often for mobile racks). Server platforms that emply HCI (Hyperconverged Infrastructure) technology (show here: Supermicro’s SYS-211GT-HNC8R) are often paired with PCIe Adapter cards, such as HighPoint’s Rocket 1628A PCIe Gen5 x16 NVMe Switch Adapter, which enable it to host as many as 32 U.2, U.3 or E3.S NVMe SSDs. This pairing would require the use of four SFF-1016 (MCIO 8i) to SFF-1016 cables (such as HighPoint’s CIO8-CIO8-110 External Storage Enclosures External storage enclosures rely on secure, robust cabling accessories to transfer data to and from the host platform. External NVMe Solutions utilize several types of external cable connectors, chiefly SFF-8644 (for PCIe Gen3 solutions), CDFP 400Gb/s (for PCIe 4.0 solutions) and CDFP 800Gb/s (for PCIe Gen5). These standards are able to support x16 lanes of transfer bandwidth for their respective generation – a hard requirement for customers that need their NVMe storage to deliver maximum performance. HighPoint’s SSD6780A 8-Bay PCIe 4.0 x8 External NVMe RAID Enclosure utilizes CDFP cables to ensure the solution provides secure, robust host to device PCIe 4.0 x16 connectivity to maximize transfer performance and reliability. Types of NVMe Cables There are various types of NVMe cables associated with 2.5” and EDSFF NVMe media, NVMe storage backplanes and external storage enclosures. SFF-1016 to SFF-8639 SFF-1016 SFF-8639 (with power connector) This cable type is designed for a host device with SFF-1016 (a.k.a. MCIO) connectivity, and allows it to interface directly with U.2 and U.3 NVMe media, which typically have built-in to SFF-8639 connectors. SFF-1016 to SFF-1016 SFF-1016 SFF-1016 This cable is designed for SFF-1016 MCIO to MCIO connection (typically from an NVMe PCIe Adapter or controller to an NVMe storage backplane). SFF-1016 to SFF-1002 Coming soon SFF-1016 SFF-TA-1002 This cable type is designed for a host with SFF-1016 (MCIO) connectivity. It provides a direct connection to NVMe media with an SFF-TA-1002 connector (such as an E3.S SSD). SFF-8654 to SFF-1016 SFF-8654 SFF-1016 This cable bridges SFF-8654 devices (such as a PCIe Gen4 NVMe Adapter card) and a device with an SFF-interfaces (typically the NVMe storage backplane of a rackmount storage chassis). CDFP 400Gb/s-to CDFP 400Gb/s Industry standard CDFP (Compact Daughter Card Form-Factor Pluggable) 400Gb/s connectors provide a secure, high-performance PCIe Gen4 x16 host to device connection (good for 4x PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSDs to operate at full speed). HighPoint’s SSD6780A RAID enclosure employs this cable type, and it’s also commonly used with high-speed networking equipment. SFF-8654 to SFF-8611 SFF-8654 SFF-8611 (OCulink) This cable is used to connect an SFF-8611 device (OCulink), such as a mobile rack or storage backplane, to an SFF-8654 host (such as a PCIe Gen4 NVMe Adapter card). SFF-8654 to SFF-8643 SFF-8654 SFF-8643 This cable links an SFF-8654 interface to an SFF-8643 interface (typically a PCIe Gen4 NVMe Adapter or controller to a PCIe 3.0 NVMe storage backplane). SFF-8654-SFF-8639 SFF-8654 SFF-8639 (with power connector) Used to connect an SFF-8654 device to an SFF-8639 device. For example, this type of cable is often used to connect PCIe 3.0 U.2/U.3 NVMe SSDs directly to a PCIe Gen4 NVMe Adapter card or controller. Learn More   HighPoint manufactures an extensive portfolio of datacenter and server-grade NVMe cabling solutions for PCIe Gen5, Gen4 and Gen3 applications. For more information, please visit our NVMe Accessories  webpage, or contact Sales@highpoint-tech.com .

Small-to-medium businesses (SMBs) looking for a way to boost the reliability of 10G network servers need look no further than HighPoint's SSD6200 NVMe Hardware RAID add-in-cards (AICs). Modern SMBs require storage optimized for demanding tasks, such as running databases and file servers. These applications are common, but they carry a hefty cost: high data access rates that conventional storage can't always sustain. SSD6200 NVMe Hardware RAID AICs let you upgrade your server storage for the better. You will geta a massive boost to IOPs, fast transfers over 10G networks, and RAID 1 mirroring in one low-profile package. Best of all, using the SSD6200 is effortless. This bootable, plug-and-play solution integrates seamlessly with almost all OSes and host form factors. Why not breathe some life into your legacy servers and SSDs? SSD6200 series AICs are more than just your run-of-the-mill NVMe controllers. They are an ideal high-speed Storage Upgrade for 10G Network Servers, and can directly host up to 4x 2242/2260/2280 single and double-sided M.2 SSDs of any generation and capacity.   Cover Your Bases with Boot Drive Redundancy The SSD6200 series deliver zero-effort security and redundancy. Each AIC includes on-card host RAID 1 support, which can dramatically increase the resiliency of any bootable volume.   RAID 1's "mirrored" backup strategy makes it the simplest RAID level. But sometimes, simple is ideal — RAID 1 is the most effective option for securing bootable volumes. If the original SSD should fail or stop respond for any reason, the mirrored backup will immediately take the reins. The process is entirely transparent and perfectly seamless.   Universal Compatibility: SSD6200 AICs are universally compatible with any x86 server or workstation with a PCIe 5.0/4.0/3.0 x8 host interface. Low-profile form factor  that fits all platforms from 1U and 2U rackmounts to full-height chassis. Integrated hardware RAID 0, 1, and JBOD capability  – no software application is required, and any arrays hosted by the AIC will be immediately recognized by the OS as an ordinary physical drive. Native support for all modern OS and virtualization platforms ; this includes VMware ESXi, Proxmox, XenServer, Linux Distributions such as RHEL and Ubuntu, and all Windows-based OS including Microsoft Hyper-V, Windows Server 2022 and 11.   Streamline Serviceability in the Field SMBs may have limited resources, but that shouldn't stop them from leveraging advanced storage technology. SSD6200 series RAID AICs were designed with simplicity in mind. Driverless Installation : All modern OS platforms support SSD6200 AICs natively. You don't need advanced technical skills; you will never need to bother with software updates or device drivers again! Just install your M.2 SSDs in the AIC and insert it into your server's PCIe slot, and boot the system. The OS will recognize the SSDs and RAID arrays automatically. Simple. Remote Out-of-Band (OOB) Management Interface : Servicing your SSD6200-series AICs is easy with the built-in USB-C port OOB interface. Connect directly to your diagnostic platform to securely access RAID, service workflow, and monitoring features — the OOB doesn't allow backdoor data access. Instant RAID Configuration via Hardware Switch ; Get started with RAID at the flick of a switch. The SSD6200's hardware RAID switch streamlines production workflows, letting you configure arrays without an input device, interface, application, or even OS.   Stay in Control With a Simple yet Comprehensive Management & Monitoring Suite   Every SSD6200 AIC includes a suite of management and monitoring tools designed to simplify administration workloads. Hardware RAID Switch; Pre-OS RAID configuration :  SSD6200A series AICs feature a set of built-in toggle switches that enable administrators of any skill level instantly configure arrays outside of an. OS. You needn’t even boot the system! OS-Level Management :  SSD6200 ACIs are compatible with HighPoin’ts Proven WebGUI and CLI management tools. The WebGUI  works with any modern Web Browsers and features simple Wizard-like menus for instant RAID creation and storage administration. The CLI (Command Line Interface) is ideal for seasoned pros and requires no graphical OS. SHI (Storage Health Inspector) :  SHI lets admins access and control Self-Monitoring Analysis and Reporting Technology (S.M.A.R.T.) attributes for each hosted NVMe device. Manage each SSD's temperature, operational status, total bytes written (TBW) endurance, and configure temperature thresholds for each drive to boost longevity and performance.   Enhance Your Virtualization Platforms It's no secret that hardware RAID 1 can improve virtualization practices. Rocket 6200 NVMe AICs support multiple arrays, and each array can potentially host several bootable volumes, letting small businesses host more OSes with fewer servers.   In Summary SMBs that want to refine their IT portfolios can depend on HighPoint's SSD6200 NVMe Hardware RAID AICs. Each AIC delivers server-grade features, provides a massive boost to IOPs, and is simple to install, manage and service. Speed response times and streamline file transfers. Minimize downtime. HighPoint SSD6200 NVMe Hardware RAID AICs are a surefire way to boost productivity for any 10G network server!

Though Gen5 PCIe NVMe SSDs have been around for a few years now, many are still reliant on Gen4-based storage, even though their computing platforms ostensibly support Gen5 devices. Provided your system can accommodate Gen5 hardware, upgrading to a Gen5 NVMe SSD could potentially double your performance envelope. However, your Gen4 SSD(s) might still be running strong. Why fix what isn’t broken? So, is it time to retire your existing drives in favor of a Gen5 NVMe storage solution? Or is that even the right question to be asking? Determining whether or not to upgrade to Gen5 can be a surprisingly tough decision. Gen5’s performance advantages over Gen4 are obvious at first glance, but simply comparing and contrasting technical specifications will only get you so far. And depending on which path you end up taking, you may not necessarily have to (or even want to) ditch your current Gen4 SSDs. As an IT Pro or Solution Provider, it’s important to examine everything that is available, and justify the switch in more concrete cost-benefit terms. Jumping in blind is not a viable option. This article explores the ROI (return on investment) of a Gen5 NVMe storage upgrade by examining and summarizing the current capabilities and limitations of your average Gen5 platform, and taking a closer look at one possible solution; HighPoint’s new PCIe Gen5 x16 NVMe Switch AIC, the Rocket 1608A.   Gen5 x16 Doubles Your Performance Bandwidth   PCIe Gen5 technology represents a significant boost to transfer throughput. Compared to Gen4, Gen5 doubles your potential. At full speed (x16 lanes) Gen5 will boost your transfer bandwidth to 64GB/s (vs. Gen4’s 32GB/s). This translates into approximately 56GB/s of actual transfer-performance (vs. 28GB/s for Gen4). It's important to point out the distinction between the 64GB/s and 56GB/s values. 64GB/s the theoretical limit of Gen5. The 56GB/s is the real-world figure; this is what you can expect to see on a daily basis, provided you have a full x16 lanes to work with. And this is key – you will need x16 lanes of Gen5 bandwidth to get the full 56GB/s.   My system can support Gen5 SSDs. But how can I achieve 56GB/s (Gen5 x16) speeds? The answer? Storage aggregation. You will need to use four or more Gen5 NVMe SSDs. As fast as Gen5 connectivity is, you won’t hit 56GB/s with a single SSD. Gen5 NVMe SSDs can provide up to 14,000MB/s a piece, compared to 7,000MB/s for a single Gen4 SSD, which is certainly nothing to sneeze at. However, simple math will reveal that in order to approach 56GB/s, you will need something that is capable of supporting at least four Gen5 SSDs . Alternatively, you could hit 56GB/s with 8x Gen4 SSDs, but we will get into this later. Ok, problem solved, right? Your Gen5 platform might already be capable of directly supporting 4x Gen5 M.2 NVMe SSDs. Sure, if simply supporting four Gen5 drives is your goal. But if you want Gen5 x16 performance, there is a major obstacle to contend with -   Beware of resource bottlenecks. While it is true that some Gen5 platforms can directly support up to four NVMe SSDs, few allocate enough resources to allow each SSD to actually deliver 14,000MB/s. To perform optimally, NVMe SSDs (of any generation) need x4 lanes of PCIe bandwidth. Many Gen5 platforms will only provide enough lanes for two SSDs to operate at full speed. Most in fact will restrict it even further; reducing lane count to x2 or even x1 per SSD (which effectively limits performance to Gen4 or Gen3 levels, at best). So, what’s the solution? If you really want to experience Gen5 x16 performance, you will need to consider investing in a dedicated Gen5 storage solution. The most obvious choice is a PCIe NVMe M.2 AIC (add-in-card). Want maximum Gen5 Performance? Then you need a PCIe Gen5 x16 NVMe AIC PCIe NVMe AICs enable will enable you to utilize one or more NVMe SSDs via one of your system’s PCIe PCIe slots. The right NVMe AIC can overcome bandwidth limitations associated with the built-in M.2 slots provided by most Gen5 platforms, and potentially provide more storage capacity to boot.   One size does not fit all : As you will quickly discover, there are a lot of standard AIC options for single or dual or even quad NVMe SSDs configurations. On the surface, all you need is a card one, two or four M.2 ports and x4, x8 or x16 lanes of Gen5 bandwidth, respectively. However, if you are serious about attaining maximum performance, a run-of-the-mill NVMe AIC is not going to cut it. Dual-port devices will only net you about 28,000MB/s in a best-case scenario; about half of what Gen5 is truly capable of, and on par with a maxed-out Gen4 NVMe device. Quad-port AICs are a better option, but most of these have a serious drawback – they will impose stiff performance penalties unless installed into exactly the right platform in exactly the right configuration with the exact right M.2 SSDs. Once again, you must beware of potential resource bottlenecks : Generic NVMe AICs rely on the motherboard for PCIe resource allocation (“x” number of lanes) – this is most commonly known as host PCIe bifurcation. Just because the card is labeled x4, x8 or x16 doesn’t mean you will actually get this level of performance if you plug it into any old PCIe Gen5 slot. Likewise, while most Gen5 platforms have multiple x16 slots (some provide as many as 7!), not all slots function in the same manner. In many cases, only those slots closest to the CPU(s) will be guaranteed to deliver x16 lanes of bandwidth for any given device. And importantly, these slots are usually intended for use with the system’s GPU’s (graphic processing units; a.k.a. graphics cards). Mind you, this doesn’t mean they can’t support generic NVMe AICs; if you are willing to sacrifice a GPU or some other PCIe device (such as a capture card or network adapter), this could potentially still work in your favor. However, if we are being honest, this kind of sacrifice is rarely viable for those that actually need Gen5 x16 storage performance. Applications that require this level of speed likely rely on other PCIe devices as well. As such, you will need to look for a particular type of NVMe AIC; something that can overcome any potential system/configuration bottleneck.   56GB/s is my goal, and I would rather not compromise my other PCIe devices. What do I look for in a PCIe NVMe AIC?   If your goal 56GB/s (or thereabouts), you will need an AIC that can provide the following: x16 lanes of dedicated PCIe Gen5 bandwidth 4 or more M.2 ports This doesn’t sound like much on paper, but pay close attention to the term “ dedicated ”. This is key, and can be substituted with “ guaranteed ”. Truth be told, no generic NVMe AIC is going to be able to do this 100% of the time. Realistically, you will need a purpose-designed Gen5 x16 NVMe SSD storage device to reach this level of performance. HighPoint’s Rocket 1608A Gen5 x16 NVMe Switch AIC  is one such device and is arguably your best option in today’s marketplace.   Introducing the Rocket 1608A PCIe Gen5 x16 Switch Architecture  – this is key to the Rocket 1608A’s flexibility, reliability and performance capability. The architecture provides 48-lanes of internal bandwidth , which the AIC allocates directly (a sort of self-bifurcation capability); 16 lanes of upstream bandwidth (this is what is used to interface with the mainboard), and x4 lanes to each of the 8 M.2 ports. This self-controlled bandwidth, combined with the 8 M.2 ports, is what enables the AIC to provide up to 56GB/s of transfer speed using 4x Gen5 SSDs or 8x Gen4 SSDs. All you need is a Gen5 PCIe slot with x16 lanes. In most cases, this means you won’t need to sacrifice any of your existing PCIe devices to get access to Gen5 x16 storage performance. Any Gen5 x16 slot will do! Intel i7-14700K CrystalDiskMark Benchmark (GIGABYTE Z790M AORUS)  AMD Ryzen Threadripper PRO 7945WX CrystalDiskMark Benchmark (HP Z6 G5 A) On top of the performance, the AIC’s Broadcom PEX 89048 switch IC works to streamline transfers and minimize latency, all but eliminating lag. More info about the innovative Switch Architecture is available here . 8-Dedicated M.2 Ports  – the AIC can directly house up to eight 2242 ,2260, or 2280 M.2 SSDs of any generation and capacity. The SSDs are connected directly to the AIC (under the removable heat-sink/fan casing). Unlike a lot of other NVMe AICs, SSDs are kept in place using rubber pins in place of convention screws or latches. This means fewer moving parts and not having to deal with a pile of screws whenever adding or replacing a drive. Native Hardware Support (Plug-and-Play installation)  – The Rocket 1608A doesn’t rely on software applications or device drivers to function and perform. All you need to do is add SSDs and plug it into the system. Any current Windows, Linux or even FreeBSD/ VMware based OS will automatically recognize the device and hosted SSDs. They can be formatted and partitioned as desired using the platforms standard storage interface (such as Windows Disk Manager), or even an SDS suite (software-defined storage). Software RAID is fully possible, and even recommended, as a RAID 0 using 4x Gen5 SSDs or 8x Gen4 SSDs can easily net you 56GB/s right off the bat!   What about Storage Capacity? Move to Gen5 or Stick with Gen4? NVMe AICs provide a way to double, or even quadruple the number of M.2 SSDs your platform can support. More NVMe SSDs means more storage capacity. Making the switch to Gen5 SSDs, at least at the moment, can potentially impose capacity restrictions compared to Gen4 media. Currently, Gen5 SSDs have a maximum capacity of 4TB. This will likely change in the coming months/years, but right now, this means they are only half the size of today’s largest Gen4 SSDs (at 8TB). Either option is pricey (going for the biggest drives usually is), but Gen4 is still the better option if capacity is a major priority. The Rocket 1608A can support 8x NVMe SSDs of either generation – this translates into 32TB of Gen5  storage and 64TB of Gen4 . As discussed previously, both sets will net you 56GB/s of transfer speed due to the AIC’s 8x M.2 Ports and Gen5 x16 Switch Architecture, so performance is not something to worry about in either case. In this regard, the Rocket 1608A’s flexible design gives IT Pros and Solution Providers a lot of room to work with. Rocket 1608A AIC Integrated 8x Gen5 x4 M.2 Slots maximize storage capacity per single PCle Slot! Methods to fully-Maximize AIC Capacity for a Single Rocket 1608A Stripe 8x Gen5 SSDs - 32TB Stripe 8x Gen4 SSDs - 64TB Some things to consider: 1. Gen4 devices currently offer superior capacity . Gen4 media is still available in higher capacities – up to 8TB per SSD vs 4TBfor Gen5 models. · Gen5 SSDs can deliver twice the performance of their Gen4 counterparts  – this means less SSDs are needed to reach 56GB/s (4x Gen5 SSDs) · Gen4 SSDs are considerably less expensive than Gen5 models . This enables you to maximize capacity while still reaching 56GB/s (8x Gen4 SSSDs)   In Summary: A Gen5 NVMe AIC can make Gen5 Storage a viable solution for many platform and applications. HighPoint’s Rocket 1608A is a great way to upgrade to Gen5 x16, and is available right now.   It’s unique PCIe Switching Architecture enables the AIC to be deliver max performance from any Gen5 platform with an x16 slot. You won’t need to sacrifice other devices, features or functions to experience 56GB/s.   The AIC allows you achieve 56GB/s of transfer speed using Gen5 or Gen4 storage media. Whether you decide to keep using existing Gen4 SSDs, invest in more Gen4 media, or make the switch to Gen5, you be able to take full advantage of Gen5 x16 connectivity.   Rocket1608A AICs are simple to install and can be managed using the tools you are already familiar with. Native hardware support means you won’t have to learn a new interface or tangle with driver updates whenever the host OS is updated or patched.

High-performance desktop workstations like the HP Z6 G5 A platform do a lot. They handle AI-driven workflows, simulation, and HPC (high-performance computing). They're responsible for a wide range of professional media workflows, like 3-D rendering, animation, and post-production. But these diverse applications share a common factor: they're data-intensive, and require lag-free transfer and immediate response time. The Rocket 1608A 8-Channel M.2 NVMe Switch AIC and Rocket 7608A M.2 NVMe RAID AIC take heavyweight workloads in stride. Rocket-series devices like the 1608A and 7608A double  the port count of HP's own NVMe AICs. They also leverage advanced engineering to make the most of x16 lanes of Gen5 host bandwidth. You gain optimal port capacity and performance potential, and none of it goes to waste. Massive Storage Expansion Capacity The Rocket 1608A and 7608A AICs work with nothing more than an x16-lane PCIe Gen5 slot. In other words, you could install four Gen5 AICs on your Z6 G5 and still have room for additional devices. In storage terms, this means up to 128 TB of Gen 5 capacity  with maxed-out 4 TB Gen5 M.2 SSDs. Switch to 8TB Gen4 M.2 media, and you're looking at an insane 256TB expansion! High-Performance PCIe Gen5 Switch Architecture: Full Bandwidth, Maximum Performance Under the hood, HighPoint’s High-Performance PCIe Gen5 Switch Architecture powers the Rocket 1608A and 7608A. Thanks to a Broadcom PEX89048 Switch IC and some precision engineering, these AICs can fully use all x16 lanes of available bandwidth. This is more than enough for up to 8 M.2 NVMe SSDs: · x48 lanes of independent, self-managed Gen5 bandwidth per AIC:  Deliver x16 lanes of dedicated upstream bandwidth (to the host) and x32 lanes downstream (to your SSDs). · Maximum possible Gen5 transfer performance: Achieve more, faster with up to 64 GB/s of transfer bandwidth (56 GB of real-world transfer performance). · Consistent, robust performance: HighPoint PCIe Switching Technology   minimizes latency and optimizes signal integrity for dependable I/O throughput. · Dedicated Gen5 cooling: Boost SSD endurance, reliability, and transfer rates with integrated cooling. · Hardware Secure Boot: Protect your data and storage infrastructures. Secure boot support prevents unauthorized code execution at startup, reducing your threat exposure. Get to Know HighPoint's 8-Channel Gen5 x4 M.2 NVMe AICs HighPoint offers two distinct Gen5 solutions for M.2 media; The Rocket 1608A Switch AIC, and the Rocket 7608A RAID AIC. Rocket 1608A Switch AIC The Rocket 1608A leads the industry in 8x M.2 plug-and-play storage speed. Modern OSes with native NVMe driver support automatically recognize this AIC, making it perfect for Windows 11/Server 2022/Hyper-V, VMware ESXi, and all major Linux distributions. The Rocket 1608A takes the hassle out of managing storage hardware. Any SSD you host with the AIC appears as an ordinary physical disk ready for immediate use. Read more about the HighPoint Rocket 1608A PCIe Gen5 x16 NVMe Switch AIC . Rocket 7608A RAID AIC The Rocket 7608A RAID AIC reinforces the 1608A's strong foundation with HighPoint's proven RAID 0, 1, and 10 technology . It also adds the industry's most comprehensive storage monitoring and management suite. Maximize your NVMe media's performance, reliability, and security with: · A Comprehensive storage health monitoring, management, and analysis suite  enables administrators to easily configure and maintain NVMe storage with simple clicks and commands · SafeStorage data encryption solution  utilizes OPAL SSC TCG based NVMe Hardware Encryption to protect media assets by preventing access to stored data when physical disks are misplaced or stolen · Advanced intelligent PCIe Gen5 Cooling Solution  features a full-Length Aluminum Heatsink with copper SSD contacts and a powerful low-decibel cooling fan ensures M.2 media always operates at optimal temperature to maximize endurance and transfer speed. Read more about the HighPoint Rocket 7608A PCIe Gen5 x16 NVMe RAID AIC . Should You Choose a Rocket 1608A/7608A over HP's Turbo Drive Duo/Quad NVMe AIC? The short answer? Yes. HP's NVMe AIC accessories only supports up to 4 SSDs per SSD. At most, you get just half the storage capacity and performance potential of a compatible Rocket-series AIC. Availability and Pricing Look for HighPoint's PCIe Gen5 NVMe AICs in early May 2024. They'll be available worldwide from our e-store or Authorized Global Resale and Distribution Partners. NVMe Switch Series Rocket 1608A – PCIe Gen5 x16 to 8-M.2x4 NVMe Switch AIC NVMe RAID Series Rocket 7608A – PCIe Gen5 x16 to 8-M.2x4 NVMe RAID AIC Optimized Storage Solutions Your HP G5 Z6 workstation is pretty capable. But "capable" doesn't quite cut it for intensive workloads. A high-performance professional media workstation deserves an optimized storage solution. HighPoint Gen5 NVMe AICs, armed with their innovative PCIe switching technology, can help you maximize the performance potential of your chosen platform. Installing multiple Rocket 1608A Switch AICs or Rocket 7608A RAID AICs can net you as much as128 TB of storage capacity, with each card delivering up to56GB/s of real-world transfer speed.

Hot-Plugging, or the ability to insert and remove a device without having to power down one’s system, has been an important feature for users who are attempting to maximize their total uptime on often times mission critical systems. For decades this has been a standard feature supported by a wide variety of data storage devices like SAS/SATA Hard Drives (HDDs) and Solid-State Drives (SSDs). In addition, this feature is also a mainstay with most USB devices. Given that this feature has been around and is widely adopted by many different protocols, one might be forgiven in thinking that it would be standard with NVMe storage, however that is not the case. Unlike the SAS/SATA interface, which was designed with hot plugging in mind, NVMe instead, was designed originally to bypass the performance limitations of the aforementioned interfaces. That is not to say that that NVMe media doesn’t have this feature at all. While NVMe hot-plug support isn’t as standardized as it is for SAS/SATA drives, there are some NVMe SSDs that do have the ability to hot-plug. However, this is no simple task; and this support is contingent on the following main factors. It is important to note, that all of these factors must be met; and if one is missing, NVMe hot-plug will not be supported. 1. System Requirements for NVMe Hot-plug : The system/motherboard the drives will be connected to must supports NVMe hot-plug. Typically, this information can be found with the associated user/technical manuals. 2. Operating System Support for NVMe Hot-plug: Certain operating systems and drivers are designed to be able to handle hot plugging of NVMe devices. 3. Drive Requirements for NVMe Hot-plug:  Hot Plugging is a feature typically supported by DC or Enterprise grade NVMe drives. As such this is a feature supported by U.2/U.3 NVMe drives. M.2 drives, were not designed to support hot-plugging and since most of them are client grade, they don’t have the support to begin with. 4. PCIe Switch Solution for NVMe Hot-plug: NVMe drives require dedicated amounts of resources. A PCIe Switch will ensure that system CPU provides the resources to each channel where an NVMe could go. Assuming you meet the criteria of all three of the requirements, this brings up the initial question, is it safe to simply remove the NVMe SSD from the system and replace it with a new one? In short, no. While it is possible to remove and replace an NVMe SSD from a running system, there are a series of best practices for NVMe Hot-Plugging that need to be taken in order to avoid any issues. Primarily this requires understanding of both the device and host side. In this scenario, the NVMe SSD drive would be a member of the device side and the host side refers to the system/OS. Before removing the drive, you must first notify the host that you would like to remove the drive. This is because the host side is responsible for managing the overall files system and structure. It is also in charge of maintaining data integrity. Once the request has been made, the host side will determine whether the drive is in a safe state. If approved, the host side will then notify the user that it is safe to remove the drive. The notification step is necessary for ensuring both data integrity and the smooth removal of the SSD. If one were to skip this step, its possible that the drive they removed could have been in the middle of read/write operations, meaning it wasn’t safe to eject. This can lead to serious issues such as data loss or total corruption of the drive. In order to facilitate the smooth removal of drives and avoid data loss, HighPoint has integrated an unplug feature. This easy-to-use feature can be found using the HighPoint NVMe RAID Management Software, chiefly the WebGUI (Web-Based Graphical User Interface) or the CLI (Command Line Interface). When it comes time to remove the drive, all the user need do is simply use this feature to notify the host of the intent to eject the drive. The user should then see a notification informing them that the drive is now removable.

Keep NVMe Devices Running Strong with HighPoint’s Comprehensive Storage Health Monitoring, Management and Analysis suite HighPoint’s comprehensive Storage Health Monitoring, Management and Analysis suite provides a variety of pro-active storage health and security features and real-time monitoring toolsets that enable administrators to keep close tabs all hosted NVMe media and make sure temperature, electrical characteristics and S.M.A.R.T. (self-monitoring analysis and reporting technology) attributes are inline with the manufactures recommended specifications . An intelligent, pro-active alert system, comprised of on-device LED indicators, an audible alarm and software-based event trackers and logging services can be configured to keep Administrators apprised of any environmental changes whether on site or in the field. Left to its own devices, HighPoint PCIe Gen5 and Gen4 NVMe RAID AICs and Adapters will intelligently monitor each hosted SSD and RAID configuration to ensure everything is running smoothly. However, customers that want full manual control, or need to tune a storage configuration for a particular application or computing environment can install HighPoint’s NVMe Management Suite, which includes an arsenal of pro-active monitoring tools and features our Intelligent Throttling Alert System, and Active Sensor Tracking and Logging Services. Active Sensor Tracking & Logging Services HighPoint’s WebGUI now incorporates a real-time NVMe Sensor logging system which tracks and records the temperature, fan-speed and electrical characteristics of the adapter and each hosted SSD over time, and presents the data via a series of simple plotted curves and line charts. These records can be exported as needed, and can help administrators narrow the scope of troubleshooting tasks by identifying potential faults and at-risk storage media, and implement preventative measures to maximize the lifespan of the RAID array and maintain optimal performance. Intelligent Throttling Alert System with Customizable Temperature Thresholds SHI (storage health inspector) is a key feature of HighPoint NVMe solutions. The solution is integrated into the WebGUI and CLI (command line utility) interfaces and enables administrators to monitor the temperature of each NVMe device in real time. Viewing the details for each SSD enables threshold configuration; temperatures can be adjusted to correspond with the manufacturer’s official specifications, and instructed to notify one or more administrators whenever a critical threshold is crossed. The interface features full manual fan control for those that need to fine tune a configuration solution for a specific platform. Administrators can select from 5 settings including, an option to fully disable the fans; ideal for workflows that require a silent work environment. Integrated LED Indication and Audible Alerts Each Rocket Series Gen5 NVMe AIC and Adapter is equipped with a series of LED indicators that track the status and operating condition of hosted NVMe media and/or RAID configurations, the solution’s PCIe connectivity status, behavior/status of the PCIe IC. The hardware sensors and indicators are designed to work in conjunction with a range of services and features associated with Highpoint’s Storage Health Monitoring, Management and Analysis suite. LED indicators are built into the ventilated PCIe bracket, and use simple color-coding (Green =  Good, Yellow = Warning, Red = Error/Failure) and flash-patterns to signal a variety of status and operational data. The audible alarm (aka “Warning “beeper” is mounted directly to the AIC/Adapter PCB. It is capable of notifying administrators when temperature thresholds are breached, RPM of cooling apparatus drops below recommended levels, or a device/RAID array has encountered an error or entered a failure state. Though enabled by default, the alarm can be disabled using the WebGUI or CLI for applications that require a silent working environment. Multi-Tiered Notification Systems HighPoint’s NVMe Management Suite continually operates in the background to keep tabs on NVMe storage assets. If anything should go awry, the Intelligent Throttling Alert System can notify administrators via an audible alarm, warning messages, an event log and Email notification system. These features can be configured independently to meet the requirements of platform and application. Audible Error Alarm  – the alarm will sound whenever a temperature threshold is exceeded, fan-speed drops to0 low, or any S.M.A.R.T. attribute triggers an error or warning. The alarm can be enabled or disabled at will using the WebGUI or CLI interfaces. Event Log  – The WebGUI and CLI will automatically log any administrator action, warning and alert issued by SHI or the host controller. The log can be easily exported as a text document for troubleshooting purposes. Email Notification  – Customers can instruct the WebGUI and CLI to compose and send Email Notification to one or more Administrators whenever a temperature threshold is crossed, and if any Alert or Warning is issued by SHI or the Host Controller.   In summary In conclusion, HighPoint’s Storage Health Monitoring, Management and Analysis Suite is a robust, comprehensive toolset designed to optimize the performance, reliability and endurance of NVMe RAID storage for industrial, server and datacenter applications. The solution utilizes an array of hardware sensors to monitor and record the environmental conditions and operating status of hosted NVMe devices in real-time, and relay this data to the administrator via a series of simple LED indicators, audible alarms, and intuitive graphical interfaces. The suite can be custom-tailored to compliment service and maintenance workflows (both on-site and remote) for a wide range of hardware & software environments, via configurable temperature thresholds, manual fan speed settings, and programmable alert services such as event logging and email notification.

In our previous blog we compared NVMe to SATA drives and explored the variety of advantages that NVMes drives can provide. However, it must be noted, these advantages come at a price: Specifically, NVMe media generates a significant larger amount heat than a standard SAS/SATA drive. Consequently, if one isn’t careful, they might end up with an NVMe drive that is overheating. So, in order to effectively use an NVMe, the user will need to be sure to manage their drive effectively and take necessary precautions to prevent this from happening. What causes the NVMe to generate such heat? Before delving into the consequences of what happens when an NVMe starts overheating, one should first understand the reason why NVMes generate so much more heat than their SATA counterparts. NVMes come in many different shapes and sizes, with one of the most popular being the M.2 form factor. Often times being described as looking like a stick of gum, these are small, compact drives, whose limited space for heat dissipation, can lead to increased temperatures if not properly managed. In addition, these thin drives are densely packed with a variety of essential components like NAND chips which generates its own amount of heat. However, most importantly the NVMe’s high-speed transfer bandwidth. This increased activity leads to higher power consumption and heat generation. What are known NVMe overheating effects? One of the first signs that an NVMe drive is getting too warm is that it’s performance will start to degrade.  In order to prevent this, NVMe drives will perform an action known as thermal throttling. This automatic process is activated first by the drive reaching a certain temperature threshold, once reached, the drive will purposely reduce its overall performance which helps reduce the total amount of heat generated by the drive. While the performance loss may be an annoyance to some, it should be noted that thermal throttling is an important safety feature built into the drives in order to protect the onboard components and overall integrity of the drive. NVMe drives are built to operate within a specific temperature range and when operating at or above the upper threshold, it’s possible to permanently damage the NVMe drive. Preventing NVMe Thermal Throttling Simply put, in order to avoid thermal throttling, one must make sure to keep their drives operating in within its acceptable threshold. There are two main factors to look at in regards to NVMe thermal management. The first is the overall system environment, generally, the more space and airflow a system has, the lower the overall ambient temperature will be. This in turn should help the NVMe stay in an acceptable temperature range. The second factor to consider is the drive itself. While many NVMes offer their own standalone heatsink component, these only are able to be used for single, specific NVMes and are designed only to be when the NVMe is directly connected to the motherboard. To handle this, HighPoint has been continually researching and developing newer, more efficient cooling solutions to tackle the issue of thermal throttling. Our latest generation of cooling solutions are designed to protect any and all installed NVMe drives and keep them cool under full load. Learn more about HighPoint’s Intelligent Cooling Solution and how it addresses thermal throttling, here .

Intro As technology evolves, the need for high speed, high-capacity storage is only becoming more prevalent. While SATA based drives use to be the main go-to data storage solutions, nowadays they have largely been supplanted and replaced by newer NVMe drives.  In this article, we’ll take a closer look at NVMe and why it’s become the gold-standard and future for most storage solutions. AHCI Protocol vs. NVMe: SATA Limitations for SSDs While both are flash memory-based storage devices, the actual interface between NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) and SATA solid state drives (SSD) differ significantly. SATA SSDs rely on the AHCI (Advanced Host Controller Interface) protocol. This protocol operates as an interface between the SATA controller and the storage devices connected to it. Originally, AHCI was designed for hard drives and later adapted to SSDs when they first were introduced. While this worked well for early model SSDs, as they continued to become more advanced, the limitations of AHCI became more and more apparent. For example, ACHI only has a single command queue and is limited in its overall queue depth. This restricts the SSD’s ability in handling multiple commands simultaneously. As a consequence, this can lead to increased latency during SSD operations. Another issue is the SATA interface itself. The current version of the interface is SATA 3 which has a bandwidth cap of 6Gbs. Like the AHCI protocol, this speed cap was fine for traditional hard drives as due to their spinning platters, they were physically incapable of maxing out the bandwidth provided to them. However, with the advent of SSDs and their lack of moving parts, it quickly became apparent that this interface was now acting as a bottleneck and preventing maximum performance. Benefits of NVMe SSDs This all changed with the introduction of NVMe. Unlike the SATA interface, NVMe can communicate directly with the system CPU via the PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Interface). Overall, this reduces total latency and overhead. In turn, this results in much higher performance than SATA is capable of, with it being able to provide bandwidth in the thousands of MBs opposed to the hundreds that SATA can support. Additionally, as the PCIe interface continues to update, this increases the total data transfer rate it’s able to support. PCIe Interface and SSD Performance Version Transfer Performance x1 Total Transfer Performance x16 PCIe 1.0 250 MB/s 4 GB/s PCIe 2.0 500 MB/s 8 GB/s PCIe 3.0 ~1 GB/s ~16 GB/s PCIe 4.0 ~2 GB/s ~32 GB/s PCIe 5.0 ~4 GB/s ~64 GB/s NVMe Command Queue Advantages Another added advantage of NVMe is the increase in command queue and the number of commands that can be sent per queue. As previously mentioned, SATA is limited to a single command queue. NVMe on the other hand can support up to 64K queues and is able to send 64K commands per queue. Due to their massive increase in performance, NVMes has become the go-to storage solution for a variety of different applications. This can range from data center usage which requires high-capacity, sustained and continuous performance to projects that are system intensive and require ultra-fast speeds. NVMe is particularly well suited for AI and ML Workloads. These demanding applications require high-speed, high-density storage solutions. During their initial phases, most AI algorithms will need to process massive datasets of both structured and unstructured data. By using NVMe, one is able to provide storage that is able provide the fast access speeds which reduces the total time required for this stage. Future of Storage: NVMe SSDs Why choose NVMe over SATA? By now, the answer should be obvious. With NVMes ability to provide high-speed, low-latency storage, and reduce total overhead it’s obvious which storage option should be chosen for projects looking for the most fastest solution possible.

RocketAIC Drives are the perfect storage solutions for 1U Rackmount and Compact Desktop Dell/HP Server Platforms RocketAIC drives are the perfect storage expansion and upgrade solution for 1U rackmount and tower server platforms, such as HP’s ProLiant DL300 and ML100 series servers. These small-footprint server platforms are equipped with powerful AMD EPYC and Intel Xeon processors and upwards of 6TB of memory. Cost effective, compact and versatile, such platforms and can be tailored to accommodate a broad range of applications and working environments. Some of the more specialized platforms forgo internal drive bays in favor of additional PCIe expansion slots. This approach enables a compact 1U server chassis to support as many as four full-length GPUs via riser cards. In combination with dual CPU’s, such a platform would make for an enticing, cost-effective SMB solution for AI-driven applications, ML and industrial workflows, IOT devices, and AV solutions. Of course, such platforms are prime candidates for high-density NVMe based storage solutions. Our Ultra-Dense series of expansion drives, such as RocketAIC 7540HW, are especially space efficient, as the storage media is directly housed within the PCIe AIC itself, and no additional cabling, cooling or power-related hardware is required. HighPoint’s manufactures a range of RocketAIC series of PCIe expansion storage drives ideally suited for these compact hardware environments. Which RocketAIC drive is right for my system? In most cases, our PCIe Gen4 RocketAIC 7505x, or PCIe Gen3 RocketAIC 7105HW and RocketAIC 6204AW drives are the best choice for compact desktop and 1U rackmount servers. They are available with up to 8TB of storage, are capable of hosting bootable configurations, and can be easily installed into any PCIe slot or riser capable of supporting a single Full-Height/Full-Length device. *RocketAIC 7505HW Shown Ultra-Compact Solutions Platforms that require a low-profile solution can opt for our PCIe Gen4 RocketAIC 7502HW or PCIe Gen3 RocketAIC 6202AW drives. Both models deliver up to 4TB of bootable storage in an ultra-compact Half-Height/Half-Length PCIe add-in-card. *RocketAIC 6202AW Shown High-Density Solutions Advanced platforms, such as the HPE ProLiant DL325 Gen11 GPU CTO server are capable of supporting our full-sized RocketAIC 7540HW and RocketAIC 7140AW drives. Despite the platforms 1U form factor, it is able to support multiple Full-Height/Full-Length PCIe devices by providing additional riser slots in place of the internal 2.5” drive bays. In fact, this particular platform can support any current RocketAIC drive, outside of our Dual-Width RA7749Ex models. *RocketAIC 7540HW Shown Turnkey, ready to install Storage drives for wide range of factory-built Dell & HP platforms We’ve published a series of installation and compatibility guides designed to streamline the PCIe drive integration process and get you up and running as quickly and painlessly as possible. The guides analyze the PCIe expansion capability of each compatible platform, and provide a list of supported RocketAIC drives and the recommended PCIe slot configurations. These guides are routinely updated, and will be continually expanded to include new computing platforms and RocketAIC drives. Compatible Systems that require a Riser Card: Dell: PowerEdge R650, PowerEdge R6525, PowerEdge 660, PowerEdge 730, PowerEdge 750, PowerEdge 760, PowerEdge 7515, PowerEdge 7525, PowerEdge 7615, PowerEdge R620, PowerEdge R630, PowerEdge R640, PowerEdge R720, PowerEdge R720XD, PowerEdge R730XD, PowerEdge R740, PowerEdge 740XD, PowerEdge R840, PowerEdge R940 HP: Proliant DL325 Gen10 Plus, Proliant DL325 Gen 10 Plus v2, Proliant DL325 Gen11, Proliant DL365 Gen 10 Plus server, Proliant DL365 Gen11, Proliant DL360 Gen 10 Plus, Proliant DL360 Gen 11, DL580/DL585/345/560 series Learn More RocketAIC for Dell & HP Platforms Bootable RocketAIC for Dell & HP Platforms Dell Compatibility List HP Compatibility List