mSATA options.

[jimma47]

Just a quick one. I have a relatively old but still performing Z77 motherboard. Gigabyte Z77X-UD3H that has an mSATA connector.
Some photos of my rig: http://forum.overclock3d.net/showthread.php?t=72329

The mSATA is currently unused and I'm aware it will run at SATA 2 speeds on this mobo if it is connected.

I'm looking at buying a new SSD and I'm wondering two things:

1. Is mSATA upgradeable?

That is; if I update my system in a year or two and everything has gone to M.2 will I be able to use the mSATA as a normal SSD? Obviously with some kind of connector adaptor or even an enclosure. Do these adaptors exist?

If not I can always re-purpose my current system into a server or the like.

2. The mSATA port is below the CPU but directly adjacent to the back plate of my top graphics card (Strix 980) and underneath my Sound Card. Would the heat generated from the cards potentially cause issues with the SSD operation?

The only reason I'm looking to go mSATA is because it looks neat, reduces clutter etc and means one less 4xSATA cable running from my PSU. It's only five dollars more to go mSata over traditional. Plus - the empty slot annoys me. It's like when you have blanks in your car where switches can be. What are they for?? Drives me mad.

Any thoughts or experiences appreciated.
Cheers

 

[NeverBackDown]

Better off just sticking to Sata 3 as it won't be going away for a while or getting a PCI drive. Saves the hassle and Msata just kinda came and went. Don't think Z170 boards even have them afaik. Sata express would be a better option than Msata tbh. However I would still recommend Sata 3/PCI.

 

[jimma47]

Better off just sticking to Sata 3 as it won't be going away for a while or getting a PCI drive. Saves the hassle and Msata just kinda came and went. Don't think Z170 boards even have them afaik. Sata express would be a better option than Msata tbh. However I would still recommend Sata 3/PCI.

Thanks for that.

Yeah PCI is already full of GPU, Bluetooth/wifi and sound card. The WiFi or sound card can go though as an option.

I have two SSD's already mounted on SATA 3 ports and the rest of the SATA connectors are only SATA 2 (2 HDD's and 2 vacant). Obviously if I'm looking at a 1TB drive and I do go down the standard SSD route I'll use the SATA3 connection for that.

cheers