Overview
This lecture explains the SATA interface for connecting internal and external hard drives in desktop computers, covering versions, connectors, and basic installation steps.
SATA Versions and Speeds
- SATA stands for Serial AT Attachment, a common interface for internal hard drives.
- SATA Revision 1.0 supports 1.5 Gbps; 2.0 supports 3 Gbps; 3.0 supports 6 Gbps; 3.2 supports 16 Gbps.
- eSATA is an external SATA version supporting external drives up to 2 meters away.
SATA Connectors and Cabling
- SATA drives use two connectors: a 15-pin power connector and a 7-pin data connector.
- Some drives may support both SATA power and older Molex power connectors.
- Each SATA drive has a direct one-to-one connection with the motherboard using separate cables for data and power.
- SATA does not support daisy chaining; one port connects to one device only.
- The number of SATA ports on a motherboard equals the number of supported drives.
Identifying and Using SATA Ports
- SATA connectors on motherboards are typically located near the bottom and are easily identified.
- Motherboards may have different arrangements and colors for SATA connectors (e.g., SATA 2 and SATA 3).
- Connect the data cable from the SATA port on the motherboard to the drive; connect a separate power cable from the power supply.
Internal vs External SATA Connections
- Internal SATA and external eSATA use different connectors; signal is the same, but shapes differ.
- SATA connectors have a distinctive L-shape, while eSATA connectors are physically different.
- eSATA cables cannot be used in SATA ports and vice versa.
Key Terms & Definitions
- SATA — Serial AT Attachment, an interface for connecting storage devices inside computers.
- eSATA — External SATA, a version of SATA for connecting external drives.
- Molex — An older power connector sometimes supported by hard drives for power.
- One-to-one relationship — Each SATA port connects directly to a single drive.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Identify SATA and eSATA ports on your computer and cables you may need.
- Practice connecting a SATA drive using both data and power cables.