Design
Product colour	Red
Mean time between failures (MTBF)	5839751 h
Certification	CE, FCC
Internal
Features
Chipset	Renesas - µPD720231A
Data transfer rate (max)	6 Gbit/s
Logistics data
Harmonized System (HS) code	84733020
Products per master (outer) case	60 pc(s)
Master (outer) case width	380 mm
Master (outer) case length	498 mm
Master (outer) case height	320 mm
Operational conditions
Operating temperature (T-T)	5 - 50 °C
Storage temperature (T-T)	-25 - 70 °C
Operating relative humidity (H-H)	15 - 90%
Packaging data
Cables included	USB
Package width	143 mm
Package depth	174 mm
Package height	33 mm
Package weight	110 g
Package volume	100 cm³
Quick installation guide
Ports & interfaces
Host interface	Micro-USB
Output interface	M.2
Power
USB powered
Technical details
Compliance certificates	RoHS
Weight & dimensions
Width	56 mm
Depth	88 mm
Height	11 mm
Weight	21.8 g

The Startech.com USB to M.2 SATA Converter (Type PIB2M21) is an integrated component for expanding the data storage capacity of Raspberry Pi models and other development interfaces. It enables the direct connection of an M.2 NGFF SATA SSD drive via the USB-A port of the development environment, overcoming the limited internal storage options. The device is specifically designed for applications based on compact development platforms, such as monitoring systems, media players, digital display boards, or IoT and automation solutions.

Applications

The converter is suitable for all Raspberry Pi models as well as other development interfaces equipped with a USB-A port. It is used in projects requiring extended storage performance without the need for additional external drives or complex network storage solutions. The combination of compact design and direct integration makes it particularly suitable for space-constrained installation scenarios, such as in embedded systems or industrial applications.

Features and Specifications in Detail

The device features a host interface in micro-USB format, which connects to the USB-A port of the development environment. The output interface is an M.2 socket (NGFF, B-Key), supporting M.2 SATA SSDs with form factors 2230, 2242, 2260, and 2280. The maximum data transfer rate is 6 Gbit/s, matching the SATA III specification. Power supply is provided via the USB cable, eliminating the need for an additional power source. The operating temperature range is 5 °C to 50 °C, and the relative humidity during operation is 15 % to 90 %. The mean time between failures (MTBF) is 5,839,751 hours, indicating high reliability.

Technology Explained Simply

The converter operates using a Renesas chipset (µPD720231A), enabling communication between the USB host and the M.2 SATA drive. Data transfer occurs via USB 2.0 with a maximum speed of 480 Mbit/s, while the SATA interface supports a higher bandwidth of 6 Gbit/s. Compatibility with M.2 SATA SSDs is ensured by the B-Key connector. It is important to use only SATA-based M.2 drives, identifiable by two cutouts (Key B and Key M), as PCIe-based drives (with only Key M) are not compatible. Power is supplied via the USB cable, simplifying installation.

Compatibility and Accessories

The converter is compatible with all Raspberry Pi models and other development interfaces featuring a USB-A port. The package includes a USB cable, mounting materials including spacers, and a quick installation guide. Installation requires no additional device drivers, as the system operates independently of the operating system. An integrated LED indicator signals device activity.

Mounting and Installation

Mounting is achieved by securing the converter to the development interface using the included spacers. The M.2 drive is inserted into the integrated socket and secured. The USB cable is connected to the USB-A port of the development environment. Installation is tool-free and requires no additional drivers or software configuration.

Operational Advantages

Using the converter enables flexible storage expansion without additional external devices. Its compact design and direct integration into the development environment reduce space requirements. High reliability (MTBF 5,839,751 h) and easy installation make it a practical solution for custom applications. Powering via USB reduces the number of required cables and simplifies system architecture.

Certifications and Compliance

The device complies with CE and FCC certifications and is RoHS-compliant. Compliance with these standards ensures safe and interference-free operation in various environments, including industrial and commercial applications.

Product Color and Design

The device is red, making it visually distinct from other components. Dimensions are 56 mm (width), 88 mm (depth), and 11 mm (height), with a weight of 21.8 g. The compact design fits well with the form factor of Raspberry Pi models and other development platforms.

Operating Conditions

The operating temperature range is 5 °C to 50 °C, and the storage temperature range is -25 °C to 70 °C. Relative humidity during operation is 15 % to 90 %. These specifications make the converter suitable for use in indoor environments and controlled industrial settings.