1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation and operation of the NFHK NGFF Key A+E PCI Express to SATA 3.0 6Gbps Dual Port Adapter Converter, Model NF-SA-034. This adapter is designed to expand your system's storage capabilities by adding two SATA 3.0 interfaces via an available NGFF Key A+E slot. It is ideal for connecting SSDs or traditional hard drives, enhancing data transfer speeds and storage capacity.
2. Product Overview
The NFHK NGFF Key A+E PCI Express to SATA 3.0 Dual Port Adapter features the JMB582 main control chip, enabling high-speed data transfer and reliable performance. It provides two SATA 3.0 interfaces, supporting data rates of 6.0Gbps, 3.0Gbps, and 1.5Gbps. This adapter is designed for use in NGFF Key A+E PCI Express slots.
Key Features:
- Dual SATA 3.0 Interfaces: Connect up to two SATA devices, including SSDs and HDDs.
- High-Speed Data Transfer: Supports transmission rates of 6.0Gbps, 3.0Gbps, and 1.5Gbps.
- JMB582 Main Control Chip: Ensures stable and efficient performance.
- Hot-Swap and Hot-Plug Support: Allows for convenient device connection and disconnection without system shutdown.
- Advanced Power Management: Includes partial and sleep power management states for energy efficiency.
- Error Reporting, Recovery, and Correction: Enhances data integrity and reliability.
- Native Command Queue (NCQ) Support: Optimizes hard disk performance and stability under high load conditions.
- PCI Express Generation Support: Compatible with Gen1i, Gen1x, Gen2i, Gen2m, Gen2x, and Gen3i.
3. Package Contents
Please verify that all items are present in your package:
- NFHK NGFF Key A+E PCI Express to SATA 3.0 Dual Port Adapter Card
- Mounting Screw
- SATA Data Cables (quantity may vary, typically two)
4. Setup and Installation
Follow these steps to install the NFHK NGFF Key A+E PCI Express to SATA 3.0 Dual Port Adapter into your system.
- Power Off System: Ensure your computer or device is completely powered off and disconnected from the power source before beginning installation.
- Locate NGFF Key A+E Slot: Identify an available NGFF (M.2) Key A+E slot on your motherboard. This slot is commonly used for Wi-Fi cards.
- Insert Adapter: Carefully align the adapter card with the NGFF Key A+E slot. Gently push the card into the slot until it is fully seated.
- Secure Adapter: Use the provided mounting screw to secure the adapter card in place.
- Connect SATA Devices: Connect your SATA SSDs or HDDs to the SATA 3.0 ports on the adapter using the provided SATA data cables. Ensure a secure connection.
- Power On System: Reconnect your system to the power source and power it on. The adapter typically does not require additional drivers for basic functionality, as it uses standard AHCI drivers built into most operating systems.
5. Operating Instructions
Once installed, the NFHK NGFF Key A+E PCI Express to SATA 3.0 Dual Port Adapter functions as a standard SATA controller. Connected drives will be detected by your operating system. You can use these drives for various purposes, including:
- System Disk: If your system BIOS/UEFI supports booting from an AHCI SATA controller in the M.2 slot, you may be able to install an operating system on a connected SSD.
- Additional Storage: Expand your system's storage capacity for data, applications, or media files.
- Hot-Swapping: The adapter supports hot-swap functionality, allowing you to connect or disconnect SATA devices while the system is running, provided the operating system and drive enclosure also support this feature.
6. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your NFHK NGFF Key A+E PCI Express to SATA 3.0 Dual Port Adapter, consider the following troubleshooting steps:
- Drives Not Detected:
- Ensure the adapter is fully seated in the NGFF Key A+E slot.
- Verify that SATA data cables are securely connected to both the adapter and the drives.
- Check that the SATA drives are properly powered.
- Confirm that your motherboard's NGFF slot is indeed a Key A+E type and supports PCIe functionality for storage. Some M.2 slots may be configured for SATA or NVMe only.
- Check your system's BIOS/UEFI settings to ensure the M.2 slot and SATA controllers are enabled.
- Slow Performance:
- Ensure you are using SATA 3.0 compatible drives and cables.
- Verify that your operating system is using the correct AHCI drivers.
- The actual speed may be limited by the PCIe generation of your M.2 slot (e.g., PCIe 2.0 x1 offers a maximum of 5 Gbps, which is less than SATA 3.0's 6 Gbps).
- System Instability:
- Ensure your system's power supply unit (PSU) has sufficient wattage to power all connected devices, especially if using multiple mechanical hard drives.
- Check for any physical damage to the adapter or cables.
- Boot Issues:
- Some older motherboards or BIOS versions may not support booting from an add-on SATA controller in an M.2 slot. If this is the case, use the adapter for secondary storage only.
7. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | NF-SA-034 |
| Main Control Chip | JMB582 |
| Interface | NGFF Key A+E PCI Express |
| SATA Ports | 2 x SATA 3.0 |
| Data Transfer Rates | 6.0Gbps, 3.0Gbps, 1.5Gbps |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 3.94 x 3.94 x 0.39 inches (approx.) |
| Item Weight | 1.41 ounces (approx.) |
| Compatible Devices | Personal Computer with NGFF Key A+E slot |
8. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or further inquiries regarding your NFHK product, please refer to the manufacturer's official website or contact their customer service. You can find more information at www.cablecc.com.
