A8N32: SATA-On-the-Go.. does it support multiple drives?

[smackbomb1216]

I have searched for this answer for a while now, to no avail. The rear SATA 3gb port on the A8n32-SLI Deluxe would be extremely useful to me if it allowed me to connect a 5-Drive external enclosure. Something like this here: http://www.usb-ware.com/sonnet-fusion-500p-port-multiplier-enclosure.htm

In that link it says to pair it up with a Sonnet Tempo SATA X4P Host Controller, but if I can get away with just using the Asus plug then I will be a happier and less broke man. Please someone answer this burning question for me!

Also, just to say it, am aware that the sonnet controller I listed above is PCI-X, which puts it out of the running anyways, so, if the sata on the go wont work, does anyone know of a good card (controller) that will?

 

[lopri]

This review here (P5N32-SLI) says it's possible. (Indeed up to 16 SATA devices!?) But I wouldn't bet on it. On top of that, I believe the SiI3132 is designed to support up to 2 SATA devices and uses X1 PCI-E lane. Even if you could connect multiple drives, you will have a severe bandwidth problem. Right now I have one SATA drive in a eSATA enclosure connected to that port, and so far I'm pleased with the performance. Faster than USB, for sure.

http://www.anandtech.com/mb/showdoc.aspx?i=2580&p=15