Minisforum EOP4A: Unusual OCuLink adapter card launches globally
Minisforum has quietly started selling the EOP4A, which has launched today alongside the BD895i SE motherboard. A PCIe to OCuLink adapter card, the EOP4A aims to simplify eGPU and storage setups for mini PCs that lack full-length PCIe slots.Nonetheless, the new accessory can connect with PCIe x1, x4, x8 or x16 slots
As the picture below shows, the EOP4A contains just an OCuLink port on its rear, which Minisforum clarifies is an SF-8612 interface to connect with eGPUs like its DEG1 (curr. $99 on Amazon). Thus, the adapter should deliver PCIe 4.0 ×4 with a 64 Gbps peak bandwidth. It is worth noting that one can only achieve these speeds when the EOP4A is placed in an x4, x8 or x16 PCIe 4.0 or PCIe 5.0 connector. Otherwise, peak bandwidth will drop significantly, particularly when pairing the EOP4A with a PCIe 3.0 connector.
Moreover, the company has included a redriver chip to reduce data errors and maintain signal integrity. Apparently, the 40 x 80 mm adapter provides a plug-and-play experience with no dedicated drivers required too. For reference, Minisforum includes 8 cm low-profile and 12 cm full-height brackets as well.
The EOP4A can be picked up from Minisforum for £69 (~$93) in the UK and €55 (~$65) in the Eurozone, reduced from alleged £89 (~$119) and €69 (~$94) MSRPs, respectively. While listed on Minisforum's US website, the device is not currently orderable. Please see the company's product listing for more details.
Source(s)
Minisforum (1) (2) (3) via VideoCardz
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