Must be used with Rock 4 heat sink (or ecoPI PRO cases) for proper mount together with Rock 4
The new M.2 Extension board v1.6 was improved based on the community feedback.
Improvements:
Gold plated connectors for stable data transmission
In the previous version the connectors where simple FPC connectors. They could easy break, and the ribbon cable could be mounted wrong. The connectors do not only avoid the cable to be plugged in wrongly, it also has a lock to avoid displacement of the connector.
Improved Ribbon cable with mounted gold plated connectors on both sides
The previous ribbon cable was always a subject to discussions. People complained that the cable was not providing stable data transmission, because the connection via FPC connector was not precise and well enough. They also said interference could happen because no ground lines where used for isolation inside of the ribbon cable.
Both issues have been addressed. Not only does the cable now have gold plated connectors on both sides, the layout also takes very much care about the shielding between the high speed data lines. Smart arrangement makes sure that no data is lost. The connectors do have additional springs to ensure a stable connection even when the board is moved.
The only disadvantage now is the fact, that the cable length can not easily be adjusted with replacement cables anymore.
Redesigned interface board to the M.2 connector of Rock 4
One of the sometimes complicated things was mounting the small interface board because it interfered a bit when the eMMC module on the bottom side of the board was mounted. I did not have any negative effects, though many thought it was not possible to mount them together.
The newley updated M.2 extension board with its updated features and specs will make the PCIe experience on your Rock Pi 4 leading edge!
