2010 Mac Mini Server Esata Mod

C

connectivitygroup

Well-known member
In case anyone is interested in doing this:

I finally got around to modifying our Mac Mini Server which we use for our mobile production computer to add Esata.

It's a pretty easy thing to do but it does involve cutting some stuff.

I am sure that doing this voids the warranty!


If anyone has any questions just let me know.
 
This looks great and pretty straight forward...just one question: What are you plugging the SATA cable into on the mini? You say this is for the Mac Mini Server, and that comes with 2 hard drives. Does that mean there is an extra SATA port inside? or are you removing one of the hard drives to use that SATA port? or lastly is there a way that you are adding an additional SATA port to the mini? Sorry for the questions, I'm just really excited to try this myself!!
 
@GalinMD
There are only 2 sata ports inside. I removed both of the harddrives that came with the server and installed 1 SSD leaving the other sata open for the mod

@MJS
It looks like I could have done it with those 2 cables but I like the simplicity of just 1 cable and I don't mind epoxying the connector. I am pretty sure if I ever need to replace the apple sata connector I can get the whole sata connector ribbon cable that plugs into the motherboard
 
I didn't get the server model because I wanted the faster graphics card for video editing. I'm now looking at doing what you've done and am going to get the iFixit Kit and use the cable - http://www.ifixit.com/Apple-Parts/Mac-Mini-Dual-Hard-Drive-Kit/IF171-005-1

SO I'm wondering what drive can I power with the Mini using the second esata port? Obviously I can power a 2.5 inch drive but what about a bigger drive? Perhaps the enclosure will be supplying the power?

Also how to I go from the cable provided in the iFixit kit to an esata male cable that can fit in the back of an estat drive?

(I've given up on TB - too $$$$$ and as you can see using a mini for HD video editing I'm on a bit of a budget :))
 
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