The EXLink MB409A5 adapter card is engineered to bridge PCIe Gen 5 x8 slots with next-generation MCIO 8i (SFF-TA-1016) connectivity, delivering up to 256 Gbps of total bandwidth. This high-performance solution is ideal for advanced storage applications that demand reliable, high-speed NVMe signal transmission. By integrating a PCIe redriver and optimized signal conditioning, the MB409A5 enables system designers and integrators to deploy MCIO-based NVMe solutions with enhanced flexibility, even in environments requiring longer trace lengths or cable connections.

Flexible PCIe Gen 5 Architecture with Lane Bifurcation Support

Featuring a PCIe 5.0 x8 interface, the MB409A5 is designed for motherboards that support lane bifurcation (x4 / x4). When bifurcation is enabled, the PCIe x8 interface can be split into two independent x4 NVMe links via MCIO connectivity, supporting up to two NVMe SSDs through compatible cabling. If the host motherboard does not support PCIe bifurcation, the adapter will recognize only a single NVMe SSD.

Effortless Expansion of High-Speed NVMe Storage

The EXLink MB409A5 provides a streamlined and scalable approach to expanding PCIe Gen 5 NVMe storage using MCIO-based connectivity. When paired with compatible solutions such as ICY DOCK's ToughArmor MB601V5K-B and the MB413L-B MCIO 8i to dual MCIO 4i cable, system builders can configure two front-accessible U.2 / U.3 PCIe Gen 5 NVMe SSD bays from a single PCIe x8 slot. This setup simplifies high-density NVMe deployment without the need for specialized backplanes, making it an excellent choice for servers and workstations that require removable NVMe storage while maintaining optimal signal integrity and PCIe Gen 5 performance.

Integrated Redriver for Stable High-Speed Signal Transmission

As PCIe Gen 5 data rates reach new heights, maintaining signal integrity becomes increasingly important, especially when using longer PCB traces or external cables. The MB409A5 incorporates a PCIe Gen 5 redriver to equalize and restore signals, ensuring stable 32 GT/s transmission across four PCIe lanes. This design allows MCIO-based NVMe connections to sustain full PCIe Gen 5 performance, even in complex system layouts where direct connections are not possible.

PCIe Clock Buffer and Sideband Signal Management

To ensure precise timing across connected devices, the MB409A5 features a built-in 100 MHz PCIe clock buffer, supporting stable synchronization over extended routing paths. Buffered PERST#, WAKE#, and CLKREQ# signals further enhance system stability and responsiveness, making the adapter suitable for enterprise-grade platforms and continuous-operation environments.

Broad Platform Compatibility

The MB409A5 is compatible with a wide range of PCIe host environments, supporting PCIe Gen 2 through Gen 5 slots. It can be installed in x8 or x16 physical PCIe slots on motherboards and operates without any operating system limitations. This versatility makes the adapter well-suited for system integrators, OEMs, and solution providers building NVMe-enabled platforms across diverse hardware and software environments.

Streamlined NVMe Upgrades with the ICY DOCK Selection Tool

The NVMe Storage Selection Tool offers an interactive guide to help users identify compatible mobile racks, cables, and adapters based on their system’s NVMe slot type and installation requirements. This tool is ideal for both system integrators and DIY users, simplifying the process of building a removable NVMe storage solution tailored to specific needs.

  • PCIe 5.0 x8 interface delivering up to 256 Gbps total bandwidth
  • MCIO 8i (SFF-TA-1016) connector for high-speed NVMe signal transmission
  • Supports PCIe lane bifurcation for dual x4 NVMe configurations
  • Integrated PCIe redriver for enhanced signal integrity over extended traces and cables
  • 100 MHz PCIe clock buffer for stable enterprise timing
  • Validated compatibility with ICY DOCK NVMe mobile racks and cables
  • Universal PCIe slot support: PCIe 2.0 / 3.0 / 4.0 / 5.0
  • Full-height bracket, CE/UKCA/RoHS/REACH compliant
  • Ideal for server and workstation platforms adopting PCIe Gen 5 architectures
  • Requires motherboard PCIe bifurcation (x4, x4) to access two SSDs (adapter does not perform bifurcation itself)
  • 2-year limited warranty