Icy Dock EXLink

Bring PCIe Gen4 NVMe Connectivity to SlimSAS-Based Storage
The EXLink MB408A4 adapter card is designed to bridge standard PCIe (x4) slots with SlimSAS 4i (SFF-8654) connectivity, enabling high-speed PCIe Gen4 NVMe signal transmission for advanced storage applications.

By integrating a PCIe Gen4 redriver and comprehensive signal buffering, the MB408A4 allows system designers and integrators to deploy SlimSAS-based NVMe solutions with greater flexibility, even in platforms requiring longer trace lengths or cable connections.

Optimized PCIe Gen4 x4 Connectivity for NVMe Storage
With a PCIe Gen4 x4 interface delivering up to 64Gbps of total bandwidth, the EXLink MB408A4 enables high-performance NVMe connectivity through SlimSAS 4i (SFF-8654) cabling.

This adapter provides a practical solution for platforms adopting PCIe Gen4 architectures, allowing system builders to extend PCIe signals beyond standard motherboard trace limits while maintaining reliable NVMe performance in server and workstation environments.

Maintain Stable High-Speed Signals with Integrated Redriver
As PCIe Gen4 data rates reach 16 GT/s, signal integrity becomes increasingly important - especially when using longer PCB traces or external cables. The MB408A4 integrates a PCIe Gen4 redriver to equalize and restore signals, helping sustain stable 16 GT/s transmission across four PCIe lanes.

This design enables SlimSAS-based NVMe connections to maintain full PCIe Gen4 performance, even in complex system layouts where direct connections are not feasible.

PCIe Clock Buffer & Sideband Signal Management
To maintain accurate timing across connected devices, the MB408A4 features a built-in 100MHz PCIe clock buffer, supporting stable synchronization over extended routing paths.

In addition, buffered PERST#, WAKE#, CLKREQ#, SMBCLK, and SMBDAT signals enhance system stability and management capability, making the adapter suitable for enterprise-grade platforms and continuous-operation environments.

Flexible Platform Compatibility
The MB408A4 is compatible with a wide range of PCIe host environments. It supports PCIe Gen2 through Gen5 slots and can be installed in x4 physical PCIe slots on motherboards.

With no operating system limitations, the adapter is well suited for system integrators, OEMs, and solution providers building NVMe-enabled platforms across different hardware and software environments.

Ideal Applications
The EXLink MB408A4 is well suited for:

PCIe Gen4 NVMe storage expansion
SlimSAS-based storage architectures
Server and workstation platforms requiring extended PCIe routing
System validation, testing, and development of PCIe Gen4 solutions