Question 1

I have a Dell desktop running Win 8.1 Pro with a motherboard that has an Intel H61 chipset, (a) which I understand does not support AHCI, and (b) is only SATA II compatible. I have recently purchased a 2.5” SSD and would like to make that SATA III compatible (and, if possible AHCI compatible as well). How may I achieve that? If I install this  PCI-Express 2.0 Controller Card (available on Newegg), into a PCI slot on my computer and then connect the SSD to this controller card (or to the motherboard, not sure what would plug into what), would it make my SSD, SATA III compatible? Also, would I need to upgrade the cable that connects the SSD to the motherboard/PCI controller card? Thanks.

Accepted Answer

OK.  The card will work for you, but it isn't the best solution;  I bought it to use for external SATA drives.  I would try your SSD with the Intel board before committing to SATA III, as I'm not sure a SATA III board would increase your throughput enough to be worth it.  There is a version of this board with internal SATA sockets that I would look at.  These boards will connect their SATA drives exactly as motherboards do, except that the drive would go to the board instead of the SATA connection on the motherboard.  But try the motherboard first--you may not find it worthwhile to get this SATA card.

Question 2

Trying to make it work on a mac pro using 10.6.8... Does it work? it says yes on the specs.

Accepted Answer

I don't MAC, my "642" is in a P7PC, Sorry.

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