Question 1

Is this a forward or reverse cable?

Accepted Answer

I connected the single connector end to my adapter card, the other ends go to 4 different SAS hard drives. Power cables to the drives are also required. 
Works well.

Question 2

What is the 9Pin connection for?  I didn't get any type of documentation with this cable set.

Accepted Answer

I found this information on adaptec com about "where to connect the grey sideband cable".
It is not normally used, but can be IF you have a "managed" enclosure.
I also found this information when looking up the "SFF-8448" standard.
I think it allows the system to display the current status for each drive and so which one failed IF you have a that uses the extra cable. It might also disable the interface to the "bad drive"

Questions & Answers