Drive adapter ICY BOX MB413L-B — MCIO 8i SFF-TA-1016 to 2× MCIO 4i SFF-TA-1016

The ICY BOX MB413L-B is a drive adapter that converts a single MCIO 8i SFF-TA-1016 connection into two MCIO 4i SFF-TA-1016 interfaces. Designed for storage systems and server environments, this adapter allows splitting a multi-lane MCIO link into two independent ports so additional drive enclosures or hot-swap bays can be connected without replacing existing controllers. The adapter supports reorganization and expansion of MCIO-based setups while keeping the original MCIO standard and physical interface types.

Advantages

The adapter provides a practical method to divide one MCIO 8i connection into two MCIO 4i ports while maintaining compatibility with SFF-TA-1016 mechanical and electrical characteristics. It is intended for use in rack-mounted servers and storage arrays where space and port density matter, enabling expansion without major hardware changes. The passive conversion approach minimizes changes to the host controller configuration and preserves existing cabling and drive enclosures.

Suitable for

• Expanding storage capacity in server and NAS environments
• Connecting additional hot-swap drive bays to an existing MCIO 8i port
• Reorganizing multi-drive enclosures that use SFF-TA-1016 interfaces
• Lab and testing setups requiring split MCIO links

Key specifications

• Interface conversion: MCIO 8i SFF-TA-1016 to 2 × MCIO 4i SFF-TA-1016
• Compatible with MCIO-based storage systems and server environments
• Physical connector standard: SFF-TA-1016 form factor
• Function: port splitting for additional drive enclosures or hot-swap bays

How to use

Install the adapter between the host's MCIO 8i SFF-TA-1016 port and downstream cabling or enclosures. Ensure the host system is powered down or that hot-swap procedures recommended by the server or storage vendor are followed when connecting hardware. After connection, verify that the two resulting MCIO 4i ports are recognized by the enclosure or downstream devices and that cabling is properly secured to prevent signal loss or accidental disconnection.

Recommendations

Use the adapter in systems that adhere to the MCIO and SFF-TA-1016 specifications and follow vendor guidelines for hot-swap operations and cable management. Verify compatibility with the host controller and downstream enclosures before deployment to ensure expected behavior and performance.