IO Crest SI-PEX40137 8-Port SATA III PCIe Expansion Card

IO Crest SI-PEX40137 8-Port SATA III PCIe Expansion Card — image 1
IO Crest SI-PEX40137 8-Port SATA III PCIe Expansion Card — image 2
IO Crest SI-PEX40137 8-Port SATA III PCIe Expansion Card — image 3
IO Crest SI-PEX40137 8-Port SATA III PCIe Expansion Card — image 4
IO Crest SI-PEX40137 8-Port SATA III PCIe Expansion Card — image 5
IO Crest SI-PEX40137 8-Port SATA III PCIe Expansion Card — image 6
86%
87%
Performance
90%
Reliability
85%
Installation Ease
91%
Compatibility with FreeNAS/ZFS
88%
Data Transfer Speed
83%
Build Quality
84%
Form Factor/Fit
90%
Hot Plug and Swap Functionality
92%
Value for Money
80%
Motherboard Compatibility
75%
Customer Support
82%
Long-Term Durability
More

Overview

The IO Crest SI-PEX40137 8-Port SATA III PCIe Expansion Card is a straightforward solution for those looking to expand their PC storage. With eight SATA III ports, it allows you to add multiple drives to your system without the need for RAID functionality. This SATA expansion card supports data transfer rates up to 6Gbps per port, ensuring high-speed performance. Compatible with major operating systems such as Windows, Linux, and FreeNAS, it is ideal for users looking to extend storage on custom-built PCs or home servers. The card’s simple installation and compatibility with various systems make it a versatile addition for storage-heavy tasks.

Features & Benefits

The IO Crest 8-port card uses the Marvell 9215 chipset, which enhances its bandwidth and reliability, making it a solid choice for storage expansion. Its PCIe x4 interface ensures fast data transfer speeds up to 6Gbps, ideal for tasks that require high data throughput. This expansion card also supports hot plug and hot swap functionality, allowing users to add or remove drives without rebooting the system. While it does not support RAID, it integrates well with FreeNAS's ZFS RAID configuration for those needing a robust storage solution without complicated setup.

Best For

This PCIe storage controller is a great option for users who need to add extra storage to their PCs without the complexity of RAID. It's especially well-suited for those running FreeNAS or ZFS on their home servers, providing seamless integration with minimal hassle. Small businesses or hobbyists looking for a cost-effective storage solution will appreciate the card's performance and ease of use. Its eight ports provide ample space for multiple drives, and its compatibility with a range of operating systems ensures it fits into diverse system configurations.

User Feedback

Users generally praise the reliable performance of the IO Crest SI-PEX40137 8-Port SATA III PCIe Expansion Card, particularly when connecting multiple hard drives. Many report that installation is straightforward, though it requires a compatible motherboard with a PCIe x4 slot. Some users have noted that while it works seamlessly with FreeNAS and ZFS, the lack of RAID support may be a limitation for those expecting more complex setups. Overall, the card’s stability across various operating systems is a frequent highlight in user reviews, with no significant compatibility issues reported.

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Pros

  • Easy to install with support for multiple hard drives connected simultaneously.
  • Provides 8 SATA III ports, which is ideal for users expanding storage capacity.
  • Supports high-speed data transfer up to 6Gbps per port, making it suitable for data-heavy tasks.
  • Compatible with popular operating systems like Windows, Linux, and FreeNAS.
  • Hot plug and hot swap support allow for flexible hardware management without rebooting.
  • Great value for hobbyists or small businesses needing a cost-effective way to expand storage.

Cons

  • Requires a compatible motherboard with a PCIe x4 slot for installation, which may limit compatibility with older systems.
  • No built-in RAID support, which might be a dealbreaker for users who need RAID functionality.
  • Some users report minor performance drops under heavy data loads, particularly with multiple devices connected.
  • Not suitable for enterprise-level applications requiring high-performance RAID configurations.
  • The card may not be a good choice for users without technical expertise, as installation requires familiarity with PCIe slots.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from multiple platforms and languages, we’ve compiled the scores for the IO Crest SI-PEX40137 8-Port SATA III PCIe Expansion Card. We filtered out spam, incentivized, and off-topic reviews, ensuring that only authentic, high-quality feedback informed the ratings. Both strengths and pain points are reflected in the scores, giving you an honest view of what real users think about this product. The insights are based on a wide range of global sources, offering a diverse perspective on its performance and usability.

Performance
87%
Users are pleased with the stable and consistent performance of this SATA expansion card. It handles multiple hard drives without any noticeable slowdowns, and the 6Gbps data transfer rate is appreciated for storage-intensive tasks like large file transfers and media management.
Some users report occasional performance drops when pushing the card to its limits with multiple high-demand devices. There are also a few complaints about the card not maintaining peak speeds consistently under heavy load.
Reliability
90%
Many buyers highlight the reliability of this PCIe storage controller. After long-term use, it consistently performs well without significant issues, even when connected to multiple storage devices. The Marvell 9215 chipset is a key factor in its durability and solid performance over time.
A few users mention that while the card works well for most, some experience occasional dropout or connectivity issues, particularly when using older or less powerful hardware configurations.
Installation Ease
85%
Several users find installation easy and straightforward, especially if they already have a compatible motherboard with a PCIe x4 slot. The low-profile bracket included is a helpful feature for fitting the card into smaller cases, making the setup process more flexible.
Some buyers struggle with installation, particularly when their system doesn’t have a compatible PCIe x4 slot. A few users also note the lack of comprehensive documentation, which could make the process more confusing for less experienced users.
Compatibility with FreeNAS/ZFS
91%
This SATA expansion card is highly regarded for its seamless compatibility with FreeNAS and ZFS RAID setups. Users who run home servers with these configurations find it an excellent addition, providing reliable connectivity and speed for their storage needs.
A minor downside is that it doesn't offer native RAID support, which limits its appeal for those looking to build traditional RAID arrays. However, users who primarily use ZFS RAID have not found this to be an issue.
Data Transfer Speed
88%
The 6Gbps transfer speed is a standout feature for users handling large amounts of data. Many users report that this speed is ideal for tasks like media editing, file storage, and server backups, where fast and efficient data transfer is crucial.
A few users find that under heavy data usage, the card’s speed can dip slightly, especially when all ports are actively in use. While still adequate for most tasks, it may not be the best option for extremely high-demand environments.
Build Quality
83%
The card’s build quality is generally well-received, with a sturdy form factor that feels durable and reliable. The inclusion of a low-profile bracket is also a nice touch, making it easier to integrate into smaller PC cases.
Some users have reported concerns about the card’s physical design, with a few noting that it feels a bit flimsy, especially when installing in cramped cases. Additionally, some buyers find the heat dissipation to be less efficient than expected.
Form Factor/Fit
84%
The standard PCIe form factor fits easily into most desktop builds, and the low-profile bracket makes it more versatile for smaller cases. It’s an ideal choice for users with limited space inside their PC case.
A few buyers with very compact or specialized cases report that the card can be difficult to install due to its size. It may not fit well in extremely tight spaces without additional modifications.
Hot Plug and Swap Functionality
90%
The hot plug and hot swap features are especially useful for users who frequently add or remove drives without needing to shut down the system. This feature is particularly valuable for those managing large storage arrays or backup systems.
There have been isolated reports of compatibility issues with certain operating systems or older motherboards, where hot swapping doesn’t always function as expected. However, these cases seem to be relatively rare.
Value for Money
92%
For the price, this SATA expansion card offers excellent value. It provides a great balance of performance, reliability, and compatibility, particularly for users needing to expand their PC storage without breaking the bank.
While it offers great value for many users, some may feel it lacks certain features like RAID support, which might limit its appeal for those looking for a more comprehensive storage solution.
Motherboard Compatibility
80%
20%
When installed in compatible motherboards, the card works smoothly and provides excellent functionality. Users with newer systems or those with PCIe x4 slots appreciate its ease of integration and reliable performance.
The card requires a specific motherboard slot (PCIe x4), which can limit its compatibility with older or budget motherboards. Users without the required slot have reported installation difficulties or inability to use the card.
Customer Support
75%
25%
Some users have found customer support to be responsive when issues arise, with helpful solutions for setup or troubleshooting. The response times are generally decent, and support is available through various channels.
Others have expressed frustration with slow or unhelpful responses, especially for more complex technical inquiries. A few users feel that the support team could be more knowledgeable or proactive in resolving issues.
Long-Term Durability
82%
18%
Many users find that this card holds up well over time, continuing to perform reliably even after prolonged use in demanding environments. It’s well-suited for long-term deployments in server or workstation setups.
However, some buyers have mentioned occasional performance degradation after extended usage with multiple devices. The lack of active cooling may contribute to some of these issues, particularly in high-temperature environments.

Suitable for:

The IO Crest SI-PEX40137 8-Port SATA III PCIe Expansion Card is ideal for users seeking to expand storage without the complexity of RAID setups. It’s especially well-suited for home server builders, such as those running FreeNAS or ZFS, who need extra ports for connecting multiple drives. Small businesses or hobbyists who want to upgrade their storage capabilities on a budget will also benefit from this device’s reliable performance and ease of installation. Users who handle large data sets or engage in media-intensive tasks like video editing or backups will appreciate the 6Gbps transfer speed per port, ensuring fast, efficient data handling.

Not suitable for:

This PCIe storage controller may not be the best choice for users who require native RAID functionality, as it does not support RAID configurations out of the box. Individuals looking for a more comprehensive storage solution with built-in RAID support might find this card limiting. Additionally, those with older motherboards that lack a PCIe x4 slot will face installation difficulties, as the card requires this specific interface. Lastly, users who plan to push the card’s performance limits in extremely high-demand environments may find occasional performance dips under heavy load, making it less suitable for enterprise-level use or systems with very high throughput requirements.

Specifications

  • Port Count: Offers 8 SATA III ports for connecting multiple drives to your system.
  • Data Transfer Speed: Supports data transfer rates of up to 6Gbps per port, ideal for high-performance storage tasks.
  • Chipset: Equipped with the Marvell 9215 chipset for improved data bandwidth and system reliability.
  • Interface: Uses a PCIe x4 interface to connect to the motherboard for fast data communication.
  • Hot Plug Support: Supports hot plug functionality, allowing users to connect and disconnect devices without shutting down the system.
  • Hot Swap Support: Provides hot swap support, enabling users to replace hard drives or SSDs without rebooting the system.
  • RAID Support: Does not support hardware RAID, but works well with ZFS RAID configurations in FreeNAS.
  • Operating Systems: Compatible with Windows, Linux, and FreeNAS operating systems.
  • Form Factor: Standard PCIe form factor, suitable for most desktop motherboards with an available PCIe slot.
  • Low Profile Bracket: Comes with a low profile bracket for compatibility with smaller computer cases.
  • Power Requirements: Powered directly through the PCIe x4 slot, no external power connector needed.
  • Mounting Type: Includes both standard and low profile brackets for flexible installation in various chassis sizes.
  • Weight: The card weighs approximately 0.29 kg, making it lightweight for easy handling and installation.
  • Installation Slot: Requires an available PCIe x4 slot on the motherboard for installation.
  • Compatibility with FreeNAS: Works seamlessly with FreeNAS for building home servers, though it requires configuring ZFS RAID for RAID functionality.
  • Drive Compatibility: Supports a wide range of hard drives and SSDs using SATA III interface, allowing for easy storage expansion.
  • Physical Dimensions: The card has a standard PCIe size, making it compatible with full-sized and mid-tower computer cases.
  • System Requirements: Requires a system with a PCIe x4 slot and a compatible operating system for optimal performance.

FAQ

This expansion card is designed to add 8 additional SATA III ports to a PC, allowing users to connect more hard drives or SSDs for extra storage. It is ideal for users looking to expand their storage capacity, particularly in desktop PCs or home servers.

The IO Crest SI-PEX40137 8-Port SATA III PCIe Expansion Card works with Windows, Linux, and FreeNAS. It provides flexible compatibility for both general PC users and those setting up a FreeNAS server.

Typically, this expansion card is plug-and-play on Windows and Linux, with no need for additional drivers. However, if you're using FreeNAS or a custom setup, you may need to configure it within the operating system's settings.

No, this expansion card does not support RAID functionality. However, it works seamlessly with ZFS RAID configurations in FreeNAS, which can still provide RAID-level performance if needed.

Each port on this PCIe expansion card supports a high-speed data transfer rate of up to 6Gbps. This makes it suitable for high-performance storage applications like video editing, large backups, and server setups.

Yes, installation is generally straightforward, as long as your PC has an available PCIe x4 slot. Some users have noted that it's a simple process if you're familiar with adding internal hardware, but make sure to check compatibility with your motherboard.

No, this card requires a motherboard with a PCIe x4 slot. It may not be compatible with older or budget systems that only support x1 or x16 slots. Be sure to verify your motherboard's specifications before purchasing.

Yes, this PCIe expansion card is well-suited for server setups, particularly those running FreeNAS or other Linux-based systems. It provides reliable connectivity for multiple drives, making it ideal for home servers or small business storage solutions.

Yes, the IO Crest SI-PEX40137 comes with a low profile bracket, making it compatible with smaller form factor cases that require a more compact design.

If the card isn’t recognized, ensure your motherboard has a PCIe x4 slot and check that all connections are secure. You may also need to update your BIOS or adjust system settings, especially in FreeNAS or Linux environments. If problems persist, consult the product manual or reach out to the manufacturer for support.