What is an eSATA connector?
John Campbell
Updated on April 04, 2026
What is an eSATA connector?
eSATA is a SATA connector accessible from outside the computer, to provide a signal (but not power) connection for external storage devices. eSATAp combines the functionality of an eSATA and a USB port, and a source of power in a single connector.
What common device will eSATA support?
It is often used for external disk drives as well as cameras, keyboards, mice, etc. eSATA is a SATA interface with external connectors on the PC designed for talking to external disk drives outside the case. The connector and cable is slightly different from an internal SATA cable.
Is eSATA same as USB?
In particular, eSATA has clearly been shown to be faster than USB 2.0. Today, USB 3.0’s SuperSpeed 5 Gbps (Gigabits per second) is more than ten times faster than USB 2.0’s top theoretical speed of 480 Mbps (Megabits per second).
Why is eSATA used?
eSATA is a SATA interface with external connectors on the PC designed for talking to external disk drives outside the case. The connector and cable is slightly different from an internal SATA cable. You would use an eSATA if you had an external drive with power and an eSATA connector on it.
What is the difference between eSATA and SATA?
SATA stands for Serial Advanced Technology Attachment whereas eSATA stands for External Serial Advanced Technology Attachment. eSATA is much faster than and more reliable than SATA. SATA is used as a connector for internal devices only whereas an eSATA is used as a connector for external devices.
How do I use external eSATA?
eSATA External Hard Drive FAQ
- Make sure that your eSATA cable for external hard drive is unplugged.
- Connect the eSATA cable from the back of the drive to the connector on your PC.
- Plug the drive into the electrical outlet and turn on all power switches.
- Wait for the drive to appear on your computer.
How do I power my eSATA drive?
The original eSATA specification does not provide power. You’ll need a USB cable or wall adapter to power the hard drive. The new eSATAp specification utilizes the USB bus to provide power over one cable, but is relatively rare.
The eSATA connectors are designed to prevent the substitution of internal cables that are unshielded for external cables. Additionally, to limit the risk of damage from electrostatic discharge (ESD), the plug is inserted farther into the connector before it is in place than was previously the case — .26 in (6.6 mm) instead of .20 in (5 mm).
When do I need tempo eSATA data cables?
When using an eSATA Serial ATA host controller and connecting external drive enclosures, you need Tempo eSATA data cables! Unlike thin, internal SATA data cables, these cables offer superior shielding and connectors with metal contacts to provide enhanced EMI protection and improved durability required for external use.
What is sonnet eSATA?
Sonnet’s exclusive eSATA data cables with locking connectors fasten securely at both ends, ensuring a secure connection to Sonnet Tempo SATA E4P, Tempo SATA X4P and Tempo SATA 6Gb PCIe controllers, and Fusion F3, D400QR5, R400QR5, R400P, D500P, and D800P2 storage systems. Buy Now Key Features
Why is my eSATA not working correctly?
Some eSATA enclosures may cause minor issues, resulting in the eSATA not working correctly, in these given scenarios: With an eSATA drive attached, AHCI mode enabled, and eSATA disabled in BIOS, eSATA must be enabled in the BIOS.