ICY DOCK EXLink MB308A PCIe 4.0 x16 NVMe SlimSAS Adapter Card

The ICY DOCK EXLink MB308A is a high-performance PCIe 4.0 x16 adapter card designed to provide direct NVMe connectivity for workstations, servers, and storage validation environments. With two SlimSAS 8i (SFF-8654) ports and support for up to 256Gbps of total bandwidth, the MB308A provides a dependable connection between compatible motherboards and high-speed NVMe storage devices.

High-Bandwidth NVMe Connectivity

The MB308A is designed for motherboards that support PCIe lane bifurcation in an x4, x4, x4, x4 configuration. When bifurcation is enabled, the adapter can connect up to four NVMe SSDs through its two SlimSAS 8i ports. Without motherboard bifurcation support, only one SSD may be recognized. The card supports PCIe 2.0, 3.0, 4.0, and 5.0 slots while operating at PCIe Gen4 speed.

Signal Integrity for Long-Reach Applications

An integrated redriver IC equalizes and amplifies PCIe signals to help maintain stable Gen4 performance across qualified longer-reach cables and connections. A 100MHz PCIe clock buffer helps preserve timing accuracy for SlimSAS-based NVMe storage, while SMBus switching and reset management support reliable operation in demanding enterprise, workstation, AI/ML, data validation, and scientific computing environments.

The ICY DOCK MB308A has been validated with compatible ICY DOCK NVMe mobile racks, enclosures, and cables, helping simplify system integration and reduce compatibility concerns. Its full-height bracket supports standard workstation and server installations, and the package includes the EXLink MB308A adapter, mounting screws, and user manual. The card is CE, UKCA, RoHS, and REACH compliant and includes a 2-year limited warranty.

Features:

• 2 SlimSAS 8i (SFF-8654) ports compliant with SFF-9402 Rev 1.1
• PCIe 4.0 x16 interface supporting up to 256Gbps of total bandwidth
• Integrated redriver IC for stable, long-reach PCIe Gen4 NVMe signaling
• 100MHz PCIe clock buffer for accurate and reliable enterprise timing
• Requires motherboard PCIe bifurcation in an x4, x4, x4, x4 configuration to access four SSDs
• Validated compatibility with ICY DOCK NVMe mobile racks, enclosures, and cables
• Supports PCIe 2.0, 3.0, 4.0, and 5.0 slots while operating at Gen4 speed
• Full-height bracket suitable for workstation and server installations
• CE, UKCA, RoHS, and REACH compliant
• 2-year limited warranty