I have an editing laptop with one eSATA input, and wish to use two external HDDs via eSATA. Do eSATA splitters exist? Is that possible?

I'm afraid I don't know anything at all about how eSATA controls the data streams, so feel free to point out that only a complete numpty would ask such a stupid question... ;-)

I did search and can't find a solution here or generally.

Hi, Ben..............

It's my understanding that a straightforward eSATA port can only handle one attached device.

HOWEVER, it is possible (not likely, but possible) that your machine has instead an eSATAp connector, if so, it should be so labelled.

eSATAp connectors can accept either eSATA connectors OR USB connectors of the correct format.

Whilst the eSATA connector still only handles one device, the USB connector can be used with multiple devices by means of a USB hub or concatenation.

What speed the USB bus has will be buried in the specs somewhere.

See:

Serial ATA - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serial_ATA)

and

eSATAp - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ESATAp)


CS

It is possible. You will need to have a eSATA port that supports a port multiplier.

Port multiplier - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Port_multiplier)

You will need to have a eSATA port that supports a port multiplier.

Why am I not suprised?

And just how do you go about finding out if it can support a port multiplier?

Now, that is a conversation with [insert name of laptop manufacturer here] product support I want to frame and hang on my wall, gotta be a classic.


CS

Here's an e-sata hub that gives you 5 ports...
5X1 External eSATA Port Multiplier: Amazon.co.uk: Electronics

A demo video...
eSATA SATA II Port MUltiplier SATA Port Multiplier Internal and External BridgeBoard by CoolGear (http://www.sataport.com/)

I think you want something like this:

Amazon.com: Syba Best Connectivity SATA II Expresscard/34mm and 2x eSATA ports: Electronics

How about this for a late thank you?

Very sorry to be so rude. Message to self - manage thread subscriptions better.