Icy Dock Launches EXLink MB409A5 PCIe Gen 5 x8 Adapter Card

The EXLink MB409A5 adapter card is designed to bridge PCIe Gen 5 x8 slots that support lane bifurcation with next-generation MCIO 8i (SFF-TA-1016) connectivity, delivering up to 256 Gbps of total bandwidth for high-speed NVMe signal transmission in advanced storage applications. By integrating a PCIe redriver and optimized signal conditioning, the MB409A5 allows system designers and integrators to deploy MCIO-based NVMe solutions with greater flexibility, even in platforms requiring longer trace lengths or cable connections.

Designed for Flexible PCIe Gen 5 Architecture

With a PCIe 5.0 x8 interface, the MB409A5 is designed to work with motherboards that support lane bifurcation (x4 / x4). When enabled, this allows the PCIe x8 interface to be split into two independent x4 NVMe links through MCIO connectivity, supporting up to two NVMe SSDs via compatible cabling.

If the motherboard does not provide PCIe bifurcation support, only a single NVMe SSD may be recognized.

Simple Way to Expand High-Speed NVMe Storage

he EXLink MB409A5 offers a clean and scalable approach to expanding PCIe Gen 5 NVMe storage using MCIO-based connectivity. *When paired with ICY DOCK’s ToughArmor MB601V5K-B and the MB413L-B MCIO 8i to dual MCIO 4i cable, system builders can easily configure two front-accessible U.2 / U.3 PCIe Gen 5 NVMe SSD bays from a single PCIe x8 slot.

This configuration simplifies high-density NVMe deployment without requiring specialized backplanes, making it ideal for servers and workstations that require removable NVMe storage while maintaining signal integrity and PCIe Gen 5 performance.

Maintain Stable High-Speed Signals with Integrated Redriver

As PCIe Gen 5 data rates increase, signal integrity becomes increasingly critical – especially when using longer PCB traces or external cables. The MB409A5 integrates a PCIe Gen 5 redriver to equalize and restore signals, helping sustain stable 32 GT/s transmission across four PCIe lanes.

This design enables MCIO-based NVMe connections to maintain full PCIe Gen 5 performance, even in complex system layouts where direct connections are not feasible.

PCIe Clock Buffer & Sideband Signal Management

To maintain accurate timing across connected devices, the MB409A5 features a built-in 100 MHz PCIe clock buffer, supporting stable synchronization over extended routing paths.

In addition, buffered PERST#, WAKE#, and CLKREQ# signals enhance system stability and responsiveness, making the adapter suitable for enterprise-grade platforms and continuous-operation environments.

Flexible Platform Compatibility

The MB409A5 is compatible with a wide range of PCIe host environments. It supports PCIe Gen 2 through Gen 5 slots and can be installed in x8, or x16 physical PCIe slots on motherboards. With no operating system limitations, the adapter is well suited for system integrators, OEMs, and solution providers building NVMe-enabled platforms across different hardware and software environments.

Simplify NVMe Upgrades with the ICY DOCK Selection Tool

NVMe Storage Selection Tool – an interactive guide that helps you find compatible mobile racks, cables, and adapters based on your system’s NVMe slot type and installation needs.

Perfect for system integrators and DIY users alike, it eliminates the guesswork from building your ideal removable NVMe storage solution.

Key Features

• PCIe 5.0 x8 interface with up to 256 Gbps total bandwidth
• MCIO 8i (SFF-TA-1016) connector for high-speed NVMe signal transmission
• Supports PCIe lane bifurcation for dual x4 NVMe configurations
• Integrated PCIe redriver for enhanced signal integrity over extended traces and cables
• 100 MHz PCIe clock buffer for stable enterprise timing
• Validated compatibility with ICY DOCK NVMe mobile racks and cables
• Universal PCIe slot support: PCIe 2.0 / 3.0 / 4.0 / 5.0
• Full-height bracket, CE/UKCA/RoHS/REACH compliant
• Ideal for server and workstation platforms adopting PCIe Gen 5 architectures
• Requires motherboard PCIe bifurcation (x4, x4) to access two SSDs (This adapter card itself does not perform bifurcation)
• 2-year limited warranty