I'm using a DGX spark that has a 2242 NVMe slot, which is smaller than standard NVMe sizes. Finding a 4TB NVMe drive for this slot has been a challenge, so I'm considering an extension cable. However, I've been browsing Amazon and don't see any with real reviews, which makes me nervous. I'm concerned that if I pick a bad one, it could harm my $3000 AI workstation and the $400 4TB NVMe drive I just bought. Are M.2 PCIe extension cables generally trustworthy, or is there a specific brand I can rely on? I'm okay with paying a premium for assurance on reliability. For context, I'm looking at the 'RIITOP M.2 NVMe Extension Cable, NVMe Extender for Both M Key and B+M Key SSD in Size 2280/2260/2242/2230 Support PCIe 4.0 and SATA 6Gbps (1FT)' on Amazon. Thanks for your help!
2 Answers
To be honest, I don’t think there's a foolproof option out there. Instead of relying solely on extension cables, you might consider getting a PCIe-NVMe expansion card specifically designed for 2242 sizes. They tend to be more reliable and can accommodate larger drives without issues.
The risk of damaging your setup with a low-quality extension cable is pretty minimal. Most of the time, if they don’t work, they'll simply fail without causing any harm. Just ensure you pick a reputable brand!
Could you give me an example of a good PCIe-NVMe expansion card? I'd appreciate any recommendations!