StarTech.com DUAL-M2-PCIE-CARD-B PCIe to M. 2 Adapter Card - Dual NVMe/AHCI M. 2 SSD - PCIe 4.0 x 8/x16 - Vented Brackets - Red
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Product Features
Technical Overview
The DUAL-M2-PCIE-CARD-B leverages PCI Express 4.0 technology to maximize throughput, supporting two M.2 SSDs simultaneously. It requires PCIe bifurcation on the motherboard, which splits the PCIe lane into two x4 connections for each drive. This ensures full bandwidth utilization for NVMe or AHCI drives, making it ideal for data-intensive applications like video editing, virtualization, or database management.
Compatibility is extensive, covering popular SSD models such as Samsung 980 Pro, 970 EVO, 950 EVO, and SM951, along with other 2242/2260/2280/22110mm PCIe M-Key drives. The adapter is not compatible with SATA-based M.2 drives, focusing solely on PCIe interfaces. Backwards compatibility with PCIe 3.0 motherboards is supported when bifurcation is available, maintaining performance in older systems.
Relevant factors for this section include Color Family, Product Color, Height, Package Contents. 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 adapter stands out by combining high-speed performance with flexible deployment options. The vented brackets included with the card promote better airflow, reducing the risk of overheating and drive throttling during sustained operations. This design choice enhances reliability in enclosed chassis or high-ambient-temperature environments.
Dual Drive Capacity
Install two M.2 SSDs to double storage capacity or create RAID arrays for improved performance or data protection.
- Supports NVMe and AHCI drives
- Enables RAID 0, 1, or JBOD via software
Broad Compatibility
Tested with leading SSD brands and multiple form factors, ensuring reliable operation across diverse hardware setups.
- Works with 2242/2260/2280/22110mm M.2 drives
- Compatible with Windows, Windows Server, Linux
Deployment / Use Cases
The DUAL-M2-PCIE-CARD-B is versatile for various professional and enthusiast scenarios. In workstations, it allows editors and designers to add fast scratch disks or project storage, reducing render times and improving workflow efficiency. For servers, it provides an economical way to integrate high-speed NVMe storage without requiring native M.2 slots, ideal for virtualization hosts or database servers.
Gamers and PC builders can use this adapter to expand storage in systems where motherboard M.2 slots are limited or occupied. The low-profile bracket option makes it suitable for small form factor (SFF) cases, while the full-profile bracket fits standard ATX towers. IT departments benefit from the adapter's compatibility with mainstream operating systems, simplifying deployment in mixed environments.
Workstation Upgrade
Add high-performance storage for video editing, 3D rendering, or scientific computing, leveraging PCIe 4.0 speeds.
Server Storage Expansion
Integrate NVMe drives into servers for faster data access in virtualization, database, or file-sharing applications.
Physical Profile
The adapter features a red PCB and measures 8.98 inches in length, 4.02 inches in width, and 0.87 inches in height (228 x 102 x 22 mm), with a lightweight design at 2.61 ounces (74 g). Its compact form factor fits most standard and low-profile PCIe slots, and the included vented brackets enhance cooling by allowing air to circulate around the drives. The red color provides visual distinction in multi-card setups.
- Width
- 4.02" (102 mm)
- Height
- 0.87" (22 mm)
- Weight
- 2.61 oz (74 g)
- Length
- 8.98" (228 mm)
What's in the Box
The package includes all necessary components for installation and operation.
Highlights
- Installs two PCIe M.2 SSDs (NVMe or AHCI) into an x8/x16 PCIe 4.0 slot
- Supports high-performance speeds up to 7.8GBps per drive
- Compatible with 2242/2260/2280/22110mm PCIe M-Key M.2 SSDs
- Backwards compatible with PCIe 3.0 motherboards using bifurcation
- Includes full-profile and low-profile vented brackets for improved airflow
- Enables software RAID functionality (RAID 0, 1, JBOD) via OS or third-party tools
- Works with Windows, Windows Server, and Linux operating systems
- Red PCB with dimensions of 8.98" x 4.02" x 0.87" (228 x 102 x 22 mm)
- 2-year limited warranty and environmentally compliant (RoHS, WEEE)
- Package includes adapter card, brackets, guide, and mounting screws
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | StarTech.com |
| Manufacturer Part Number | DUAL-M2-PCIE-CARD-B |
| Brand Name | StarTech.com |
| Product Name | PCIe to M.2 Adapter Card |
| Packaged Quantity | 1 |
| Product Type | M.2 NVMe to PCIe Adapter |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Color Family | Red |
| Product Color | Red |
| Height | 0.87" (22 mm) |
| Width | 4.02" (102 mm) |
| Length | 8.98" (228 mm) |
| Weight (Approximate) | 2.61 oz (74 g) |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Package Contents | PCIe to M.2 Adapter Card 1 x Low Profile Bracket 1 x Quick-Start Guide 1 x Set of Mounting Screws |
| Certifications & Standards | CE FCC |
| Environmentally Friendly | Yes |
| Environmental Compliance | Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE),Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) |
| Country of Origin | Taiwan |
| Warranty | |
| Limited Warranty | 2 Year |
User Manual
FAQ
Does this adapter require PCIe bifurcation on the motherboard?
Yes, PCIe bifurcation is required for the adapter to function correctly. Bifurcation splits the PCIe lane (x8 or x16) into two x4 connections, allowing both M.2 slots to operate simultaneously. Most modern motherboards support bifurcation, but check your motherboard's BIOS settings or manual to confirm availability, especially for PCIe 3.0 systems.
What is the maximum data transfer speed per drive?
Each drive slot supports speeds up to 7.8GBps (gigabytes per second) when used with compatible PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSDs and a PCIe 4.0 motherboard. Actual speeds depend on the SSD model, motherboard capabilities, and system configuration. With PCIe 3.0, speeds are lower but still benefit from high-performance drives.
Can I use this adapter in a PCIe 3.0 slot?
Yes, the adapter is backwards compatible with PCIe 3.0 motherboards, provided they support PCIe bifurcation and have an available x8 or x16 slot. Performance will be limited by PCIe 3.0 bandwidth, but it remains a viable option for adding M.2 storage to older systems without native M.2 support.
What is included in the package?
The package contains the PCIe to M.2 adapter card, one low-profile (half-height) bracket (with a full-profile bracket pre-installed), a quick-start guide, and a set of mounting screws. The vented brackets help with airflow to prevent overheating, and the screws secure M.2 drives to the adapter.
What connectivity or interface options are available?
Connectivity details help confirm how StarTech.com PCIe to M.2 Adapter Card (DUAL-M2-PCIE-CARD-B) can integrate with your network, accessories, and surrounding peripherals before rollout or replacement planning.
What form factor or physical profile is listed?
The listed physical configuration is 0.87" (22 mm), which helps buyers judge placement, comfort, or installation fit in the intended environment.