Why is the SATA Connector (J21) missing on newer Nitrogen6 MAX SBCs?

Answer

We no longer populate and install J21, the SATA connector, on Nitrogen6 MAX SBCs (for example, NIT6Q_MAX_QCA_BRD) by default on all newer boards, as was the case in earlier production; it must now be mounted separately – if needed. The hardware revision itself has not changed and remains the same in this context. This decision was made due to low demand observed in the field and because the original part number 1734058-2 from TE Connectivity / AMP went EOL. An alternative and closest matching replacement is 047080-4005 from Molex. Note: We purchased a final batch and still have inventory available to support customer requests. If you require the SATA connector to be present on your boards at shipment, please contact your local sales representative or FAE to discuss availability and options.