StarTech.com PEXESAT322I 2-Port PCIe SATA 6 Gbps Controller Card - Dual Internal/External SATA III - PCI Express x1
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Product Features
Technical Overview
Built around a Serial ATA/600 controller, the PEXESAT322I implements the complete SATA III specification with support for Native Command Queuing (NCQ) and standard ATA/ATAPI commands. The card maintains backward compatibility with existing SATA I and II cabling, allowing seamless integration with older storage devices while maximizing performance with newer drives.
The PCI Express 2.0 interface provides sufficient bandwidth for simultaneous operation of all four SATA ports without bottlenecking. Advanced features include Port Multiplier support for both FIS-based and Command-based switching, enabling connection of multiple drives through a single port when used with compatible hardware.
Relevant factors for this section include Host Interface, Controller Type, Total Number of SATA Ports, Number of SATA Ports (Internal). When those points are considered together, they give buyers a clearer picture of how the product is equipped, how it fits into deployment, and what kind of day-to-day role it is meant to support.
Key Product Advantages
This controller card stands out for its balanced internal/external port configuration and comprehensive SATA feature support. The inclusion of both internal and external ports in a single card eliminates the need for separate expansion solutions, while the low-profile bracket accommodates various chassis configurations.
Flexible Connectivity
Two internal ports support standard 3.5" and 2.5" drives, while two external eSATA ports enable hot-swappable storage expansion for backup drives, media libraries, or temporary project storage.
- Internal connections for permanent storage
- External eSATA for removable devices
- Hot-swap capable with proper OS support
Comprehensive Compatibility
Supports SATA-based optical drives including CD, DVD, and Blu-ray units alongside traditional hard drives and SSDs. The controller works with existing SATA I/II cabling while delivering SATA III performance with compatible drives.
- Optical drive compatible
- Backward cable compatible
- Full SATA command set
Deployment / Use Cases
The PEXESAT322I serves multiple deployment scenarios where additional SATA connectivity is required. In desktop workstations, it expands storage capacity by adding internal drives while providing external access for backup solutions. For media production systems, the eSATA ports enable fast transfer of project files to external storage arrays.
Small business servers benefit from the card's ability to add both internal storage for operating systems and applications plus external ports for backup rotation. Home theater PCs can use the controller to connect multiple internal drives for media storage while maintaining an eSATA port for occasional drive maintenance or content updates.
Storage Expansion
Add up to four additional SATA devices to systems with limited motherboard SATA ports or older systems requiring modern SATA III support.
External Storage Access
Create dedicated eSATA connections for external drive enclosures, docking stations, or direct drive connections without USB conversion overhead.
Physical Profile
The compact plug-in card measures 4.80" × 3.60" × 0.80" (121.92 × 91.44 × 20.32 mm) and weighs approximately 1.70 oz (48.19 g). The standard-height bracket is complemented by an included low-profile bracket for installation in slim chassis or small form factor systems. The card's dimensions ensure compatibility with most desktop PC cases while the lightweight design minimizes stress on the PCIe slot.
- Width
- 3.60" (91.44 mm)
- Height
- 0.80" (20.32 mm)
- Weight
- 1.70 oz (48.19 g)
- Length
- 4.80" (121.92 mm)
What's in the Box
The package includes all necessary components for installation and operation:
Highlights
- Adds 2 internal and 2 external SATA 6 Gbps ports via PCIe x1
- Supports SATA revision 3.0 with up to 6 Gbps bandwidth per port
- Compatible with SATA-based optical drives (CD/DVD/BD)
- Works with existing SATA I/II cabling
- Includes Native Command Queuing (NCQ) support
- Port Multiplier FIS-based and Command-based switching
- PCI Express 2.0 compliant interface
- Includes low-profile/half-height installation bracket
- 2-year limited warranty
- Environmentally compliant with REACH, WEEE, RoHS
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | StarTech.com |
| Manufacturer Part Number | PEXESAT322I |
| Brand Name | StarTech.com |
| Product Name | PCIe SATA Controller |
| Packaged Quantity | 1 Each |
| Product Type | SATA Controller |
| Technical Information | |
| Host Interface | PCI Express x1 |
| Controller Type | Serial ATA/600 |
| Interfaces/Ports | |
| Total Number of SATA Ports | 4 |
| Number of SATA Ports (Internal) | 2 |
| Number of SATA Ports (External) | 2 |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Form Factor | Plug-in Card |
| Height | 0.80" (20.32 mm) |
| Width | 3.60" (91.44 mm) |
| Length | 4.80" (121.92 mm) |
| Weight (Approximate) | 1.70 oz (48.19 g) |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Package Contents | PCIe SATA Controller SATA Cable Low Profile Bracket Driver CD Instruction Manual |
| Platform Supported | PC |
| Environmentally Friendly | Yes |
| Environmental Certification | REACH,WEEE,RoHS |
| Environmental Compliance | Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE) |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Warranty | |
| Limited Warranty | 2 Year |
User Manual
FAQ
What types of drives can I connect to this SATA controller?
The PEXESAT322I supports all SATA-based storage devices including 2.5" and 3.5" hard drives, solid-state drives, and SATA optical drives such as CD, DVD, and Blu-ray units. The controller implements the complete SATA command set and works with both older SATA I/II devices and newer SATA III drives, automatically negotiating the appropriate speed for each connected device.
Can I use both internal and external ports simultaneously?
Yes, all four SATA ports (two internal and two external) can operate simultaneously. The controller provides independent channels for each port, allowing you to connect internal drives for permanent storage while using external eSATA ports for removable storage devices. This configuration is particularly useful for systems requiring both expanded internal capacity and external backup or transfer capabilities.
What PCIe slot is required for this controller card?
The card requires a single PCI Express x1 slot, which is available on most modern motherboards. It is compatible with PCIe 2.0 and later standards, though it will also work in PCIe 1.0 slots at reduced bandwidth. The card uses a standard bracket height but includes a low-profile bracket for installation in slim chassis or small form factor systems.
Does this controller support hot-swapping of external drives?
The eSATA ports support hot-swapping when used with compatible operating systems and properly configured external enclosures. However, hot-swap functionality depends on both the operating system's SATA controller driver support and the external enclosure's implementation. For reliable hot-swap operation, ensure your OS supports AHCI mode and that external enclosures explicitly support hot-swap functionality.
What is the maximum data transfer speed per port?
Each SATA port supports data transfer rates up to 6 gigabits per second (Gbps) when used with SATA III compatible devices. This equals approximately 600 megabytes per second in practical applications. The controller maintains backward compatibility with SATA I (1.5 Gbps) and SATA II (3 Gbps) devices, automatically negotiating the appropriate speed based on the connected drive's capabilities.
What is included in the package for installation?
The package contains the PCIe SATA controller card, one SATA data cable for connecting internal drives, a low-profile/half-height bracket for installation in slim chassis, a driver CD with necessary software, and a comprehensive instruction manual. The card comes ready for installation in standard desktop systems, with the low-profile bracket providing flexibility for small form factor deployments.
| Qty | Price | Available |
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