Esata port multiplier explaination please

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Level 1

8 points

Esata port multiplier explaination please

I am looking for some advice about an esata enclosure setup. I would like to move into a multiple drive array for FCP and would like to know how the port multiplier works.

I already have figured out that hardware RAID is superior to software RAID. My question is whether I can get an enclosure with the parts that handle the multiplying (I already have a newer technolgy extenders cable product), or whether I need both that and a card which handles the multiplying?

If someone could explain to me what I need, and hopefully how it works, it will be much appreciated.

Thanks.

Macbook Pro 2.4-4G RAM, Mac pro (1st Gen)-4G RAM, Mac OS X (10.5.8), iPod Classic, iPhone 3GS, FCP 6.0.5, Time Capsule

Posted on Jan 5, 2010 9:42 PM

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Answer 1

Jan 6, 2010 4:58 AM in response to sfnorton

http://www.macgurus.com/productpages/sata/BurlyPortMultiEncl.php

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Answer 2

sfnorton Author

Level 1

8 points

Jan 6, 2010 5:30 AM in response to Gary Scotland

I appreciate your response, but should I infer by this link that it is not possible to have the enclosure handle the multiplier so that I can just attach it to my extenders cable?

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Answer 3

Jim Cookman

Level 7

23,435 points

Jan 6, 2010 7:13 AM in response to sfnorton

Dunno what an extenders cable is, but I'll describe my set up. A five slot burly box with 5 drives installed. Currently they're 500 gigs each, about to migrate them to 1TB drives. Sonnet Tempo sata card-- which gives me 4 e-sata connections. One connection goes to the box, which itself has a port multiplier to each of the drives. If needed, I could connect 3 more of the same sort of boxes and quite easily have 20TB external FAST storage. And the best part is that it is CHEAP.

Our Brian Conner is a VAR and helped me put this package together. AND recommended which drives to get.

I'm now guessing that you've attached an extension cable to the wire strap inside your computer and run it out the back of your machine. Yes you could do that. One thing I worry about is whether having an opening in the back of your machine would mess with the rather well designed ventilation system.

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Answer 4

sfnorton Author

Level 1

8 points

Jan 6, 2010 7:32 AM in response to Jim Cookman

Thanks for the response.

The extender cable plugs two cables directly to 2 unused sata ports directly on the logic board. http://www.newertech.com/products/esata_cable.php

I believe I have found out that it does NOT support port multiplier from within an enclosure - not exactly sure why. That came from a post on this forum http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?messageID=10117571&#10117571

So then the question becomes, if I get a card like the Sonnet Tempo E2P (which does not have port multiplier) will I still benefit if I choose an enclosure which has an internal port multiplier? Or do I need both card AND enclosure - both with port multipliers???

Thanks so much.

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Answer 5

e45blue

Level 2

220 points

Jan 6, 2010 12:14 PM in response to sfnorton

If you use an enclosure that uses port multipliers, you must have a card that supports port multipliers.

Therefore the Newertec wont work with a port multiplier enclosure

My computer supplier would only sell me a card and enclosure combination that were comatible, so I suggest talking to your supplier and dont buy individual items that wont work together.

I have a great Sonnet Fusion system that has a built in Raid, consisting of-

http://www.sonnettech.com/product/temposatae4p.html

http://www.sonnettech.com/product/fusion400qr5.html

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Answer 6

sfnorton Author

Level 1

8 points

Jan 6, 2010 2:42 PM in response to e45blue

Thanks for clearing this up. Unfortunately, your rig is out of my price range. One user on here suggested products at USB-ware.com, and they certainly have a few that come with the card, and also fit within my price range.

I am well aware of the "get what you paid for' situation, especially with things as technical as this function. But for now, maybe I have to stick with what has been working, or move slowly up the ladder with a cheaper alternative.

At least now I know the deal. Really appreciate your help.

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Answer 7

sfnorton Author

Level 1

8 points

Jan 6, 2010 2:47 PM in response to e45blue

this is one that I saw on the site suggested by another user. Comes with the card - so you hope it works together!

http://www.usb-ware.com/venus-esata-hardware-raid-enclosure.htm

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