Yep. there are truly SATA only backplane connectors out there. And I don't doubt you've run into them.
I've also seen SATA only SFF-8087 to forward breakout cables. that's a @#$@#$ nightmare unless its labeled "SATA ONLY".
ID does indeed sell SATA only H/S products. I've seen them labeled as such.
I can only go off what
@Weapon posted. Here's the ID description from their linked web page :
"The ICY DOCK ToughArmor MB994SK-1B takes 4 x 2.5" SAS/SATA HDD/SSD from 5mm to 15mm height, and supports Hot Swap for quick and easy drive replacements."
Like I said I have the NON locking version of that cage. well quite a few actually as per my post.
In fact over the last hour I just tested 8 HBA's for someone using 2 cages and some cable creation SATA forward breakout cables. all 8 HGST SAS SSD's showed up every time.
Edit - Also, nothing wrong with calling ICY Dock too - explain what you are after see what they say!.
IMO
Rosewill makes a 3.5"/2.5" 4 bay SAS/SATA cage and its plastic, poorly designed interior cable connection/routing and typically 1 of your 4 bays will not work because of a cable that interferes with the drive seating. GARBAGE.
Athenatech makes 4 bay and 8 bay SAS cages. I've had nothing but trouble with them. GARBAGE.
iStar makes 4 bay SAS/SATA cages. Worked fine. pricey.
Startech makes 4 bay SAS/SATA cages. Worked fine. pricey.
ID makes a lot of 4 bay SAS/SATA and SATA only cages. Worked fine. pricey at list, but often can be found on sale around October-Dec.
If you are only hooking up 1 4xcage its a nice easy way with cable management etc in a mini/mid or tower these are nice. Watch your cooling if you are running HOT drives.
Going the route of the breakout and individual drive power is kinda PITA cable management but can be more flexible 2.5"? 3.5" connectors don't care.
Ultimately if you are a bit inexperienced then it is always bit of a gamble.
Did I match the right connectors?
Are my cables long enough?
Do I have the correct power from my ABC qunitex multi-variable PSU?
Are those power cables long enough?
If you are unsure buy from a reseller with a return policy that works for you!
Decision paralysis can eat you alive. this is SUPPOSED to be a fun hobby. You'll make mistakes. Plan for them and have a plan for when you do... good vendor/reseller selection when starting out is IMO a wise decision even if initially some products cost a bit more. Once you get a feel, know how it works go crazy on ebay or with small volume but good deal sellers etc.
