Supermicro - CBL-SAST-1221D-85 Slimline X8 (LE) to Slimline X8 (STR)

The Supermicro CBL-SAST-1221D-85 stands out in the world of internal storage cabling with its dual Slimline X8 connectors, each offering a left-exit and straight orientation respectively—a combination that simplifies routing in dense server chassis. Unlike generic cables that force awkward bends, this 85 cm link is built for clean, low-profile connections between motherboards, backplanes, and high-speed drives. With eight lanes of SAS 3.0 or NVMe signaling, it delivers the bandwidth modern storage arrays demand while maintaining signal integrity through full shielding and 100-ohm impedance.

Highlights

• Dual Slimline SAS X8 (SFF-8654) male connectors: one left-exit, one straight
• Supports up to 12 Gbps per lane for SAS 3.0 and NVMe protocols
• 85 cm length ideal for mid-tower to rack-mount server cable management
• Copper conductors with shielding and 100-ohm impedance for reliable data transfer
• RoHS compliant and black jacket for a professional, tidy build

In daily use

When integrating high-density storage, every millimeter of cable routing matters. The left-exit connector on one end allows the cable to hug the motherboard or backplane surface, reducing strain and improving airflow. The straight connector on the opposite end plugs directly into a drive cage or controller without unnecessary twists. This orientation pairing is especially useful in 1U and 2U servers where vertical clearance is limited. The 85 cm reach covers most internal distances without excess slack, and the black jacket blends seamlessly into Supermicro's standard chassis aesthetics.

Full specifications

• Brand: Supermicro
• Model: CBL-SAST-1221D-85
• MPN: CBL-SAST-1221D-85
• Cable type: Internal SAS/NVMe data cable
• Connector 1: Slimline SAS X8 (SFF-8654), left exit (LE), male
• Connector 2: Slimline SAS X8 (SFF-8654), straight (STR), male
• Data transfer rate: Up to 12 Gbps per lane (SAS 3.0 compatible)
• Number of lanes: 8 (X8)
• Cable length: 85 cm (0.85 m)
• Conductor material: Copper
• Impedance: 100 Ohms
• Shielding: Yes
• Colour: Black
• RoHS compliant: Yes
• Application: Internal server/storage connectivity for SAS/NVMe drives
• Compatibility: Supermicro motherboards, backplanes, and storage devices supporting Slimline SAS X8

Final note

For system builders and IT professionals seeking a reliable, high-performance internal storage link, the CBL-SAST-1221D-85 offers the exact connector orientations and length needed for clean, efficient server builds. Its robust construction and verified specifications ensure stable operation in demanding environments.