Abstract: Embodiments presented herein provide for hot swappable connections to various storage devices. In one embodiment, a storage controller includes an interface operable to connect to at least one of a storage device and a midplane connected to a plurality of Non Volatile Memory Express (NVMe) storage devices. The storage controller also includes a processor operable to detect when the interface is connected to the mid-plane, to determine that the NVMe storage devices each have a x4 NVMe connection, and to communicate sideband signaling, including a reference clock, to the NVMe storage devices through the midplane via Inter-Integrated Circuit (I2C) upon determining that the NVMe storage devices each have a x4 NVMe connection.

Abstract: Embodiments presented herein provide for hot swappable connections to various storage devices. In one embodiment, a storage controller includes an interface operable to connect to at least one of a storage device and a midplane connected to a plurality of Non Volatile Memory Express (NVMe) storage devices. The storage controller also includes a processor operable to detect when the interface is connected to the mid-plane, to determine that the NVMe storage devices each have a x4 NVMe connection, and to communicate sideband signaling, including a reference clock, to the NVMe storage devices through the midplane via Inter-Integrated Circuit (I2C) upon determining that the NVMe storage devices each have a x4 NVMe connection.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to an apparatus configured for providing a plurality of exit routes to a single type of cable. The apparatus includes a board configured to have a notch. The notch is dimensioned to have a first predetermined distance from a lowest edge of the notch to a pin A1 location on the board and a second predetermined distance from an edge of the board to the pin A1 location. The apparatus also includes a plurality of connectors configured for receiving a cable of the plurality of the single type of cable. Each cable is inserted into a respective connector, and each cable exits the board through the notch. The cable may exit the board through a plurality of routes without requiring changes to the dimension of the board or placement of the connectors.

Abstract: A universal controller connector is modular, scalable and enables ease of connection between various storage devices (e.g., hard drives) and the same midplane controller. The universal controller connector solves the need for modularity and scalability for use with new storage controllers requiring midplane connections by managing connections between midplane controller and interface modules. The connection form factor enables universal connectivity of modules to a controller.