Description: M.2 is a specification for a connector that allows for high-speed data transfer and storage devices. This standard, which replaces the older mSATA interface, was designed to maximize performance and efficiency in the physical space of devices. M.2 supports a variety of interfaces, including SATA and PCI Express (PCIe), allowing users to choose the option that best suits their needs. One of the standout features of M.2 is its ability to support the NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) protocol, which optimizes data transfer speeds in solid-state drives (SSDs). This translates to faster load times and improved overall performance compared to previous technologies. Additionally, the M.2 format is more compact, enabling hardware manufacturers to design thinner and lighter devices, ideal for laptops and ultrabooks. In summary, M.2 represents a significant advancement in storage connectivity, offering superior speeds and greater flexibility in hardware design.
History: The M.2 specification was introduced by the PCI-SIG organization in 2013 as part of an effort to standardize storage and expansion connectors. Its development focused on the need for a more efficient and versatile format than mSATA, which had become obsolete due to speed and size limitations. Since its launch, M.2 has evolved to include support for the NVMe protocol, allowing SSDs to achieve much higher data transfer speeds. As storage technology has advanced, M.2 has become the preferred standard for storage devices in various computing platforms including laptops and desktops.
Uses: M.2 is primarily used in laptops, desktops, and servers to connect solid-state drives (SSDs) and other expansion devices. Its compact design allows manufacturers to integrate high-performance storage into thinner and lighter devices. Additionally, M.2 is also used in expansion cards to add capabilities such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and other peripherals, making it a versatile connector in the hardware realm.
Examples: Examples of devices that use M.2 connectors include SSDs like the Samsung 970 EVO, which leverages the NVMe protocol to deliver exceptional read and write speeds. M.2 modules can also be found in expansion cards that provide Wi-Fi connectivity in modern laptops, such as the Intel Wireless-AC 9260.
