Check if the 7700K supports an expansion card with two PCIe x16 ports functioning in x8/x8 mode.
Check if the 7700K supports an expansion card with two PCIe x16 ports functioning in x8/x8 mode.
I constructed a Plex server a few years back using parts from an old gaming PC (just one x16 port) and now want to add another HBA for extra drives. All the information I’m getting about dual 16-bay slots only works in x8 or x4 mode when both are used, since each HBA needs eight lanes. Someone suggested a workstation board from Supermicro, but it’s around $300 on eBay. I’ve found used 7th-gen boards for about $50, though none of them support the required x8/x8 configuration. I’m looking for a gaming motherboard that fits my needs without ECC support—though I understand it’s good practice for my situation but I’m trying to keep costs down. It could be either a gaming or workstation model, as long as it’s reasonably priced. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
The HBA being used offers 16 lanes at 6Gb/s SAS, while the LSI model supports 8 lanes of PCIe 2.0. I thought they’d require similar lane counts.
They claim to require eight lanes per direction, but there might be other factors at play.
Thanks! This will simplify searching on eBay, thank you for your assistance.
The focus is on achieving x8 performance, but you don’t have to use that level for your cards—just a full-size slot or an open back design works if bandwidth is the priority. What counts is the available bandwidth, not the card specifications. If connected drives can’t reach x8 speed, then x8 isn’t worth it.
Sure, just the two HBAs. I understand the 7700k can't handle that, but I appreciate you bringing it up. You're right about the limitations—I've posted a few times before.