Nintendo Switch 2 can gain microSD Express adapter for SSD M.2

An open project at Github has announced that an adapter is under development that allows you to connect a SSD M.2 2230 nvme The MicroSD Express slot of the new Nintendo Switch 2, paving the way for expandable, faster and more affordable storage.

PCIE Direct Connection

The Switch 2 console already offers compatibility with the standard SD Express 7.1which exposes a interface PCIe Gen3 x1 e protocolo NVMe through slot microSD.

What the adapter maps directly is these signs for a SSD M.2 2230, without the need for a protocol translation. That is, the Switch 2 controller himself does the job.

Possible performance advantages

Initial tests indicate reading/recording speeds up to about 1 GB/snear the boundary of PCIE X1.

In addition, SSDs M.2 2230 offer higher capacity for lower price Compared to microSD Express: A 1 TB SSD can come out for about $ 66 (approximately R $ 368 without tax), while high capacity microSD cards still cost much more.

Remembering that Samsung’s 256 GB Microsd Express is for R $ 398 in sight in Brazil through official channels.

Project Internship

In the SDEX2M2 Github, the responsible have already developed:

• PCB layout and electric scheme
• Microsd Express Pin Maps
• Ferrite bead to filter noise
• List of Materials
• Initial tests in progress

They still correct details and validate the design. There is an alert to limit SSDs low-voltage e low-power (reduced voltage and consumption) as some models can overload the slot.

LIMITATIONS AND CARE

• Compatible only with switch 2does not work on old microSD slots
• Larger SSDs can lock or damage the console without proper filtering
• Assembly can result in a fragile, fragile SSD SSD, subject to physical damage

As they explain in Github:

In the hardware protocol, no translation is required – Switch 2 controller already takes care of it. Just create the plate and connect SSD M.2 2230

This claim shows that the adapter works mainly mapping electrical signals, without extra layers that reduce performance.

What changes in practice?

• Bigger and cheaper storage: SSDS M.2 may offer a capacity of 1 TB or more at a price lower than microSD Express.
• Speed ​​near the slot limit: Great for large games or intensive charges.
• And open and open project: The user or makers can manufacture their own custom plate.
• Technical risk: Unofficial Mod can nullify warranty or damage hardware; Ideal for those who have enthusiast profile.

Also read:

A promising mod, but it requires caution

Although the project of adapting SSDs M.2 to Switch 2 is technically viable and already has interesting results, This is not an official or risk -free solution. The use of this type of modification should be made with full awareness that there are electrical and physical limitations involved and that the design of the console was not designed to operate with external SSDs of this size.

Still, for those who seek cost-effective storage alternatives And you are willing to explore open hardware solutions, the project offers a very attractive path. It remains to follow the evolution of the initiative in Github and the results of ongoing tests, which should clarify whether adaptation will be practical for everyday use.

In the coming months, the adoption of SD Express and PIE on new generation consoles tends to open even more doors for this type of innovation – and this can be just the beginning.

Fonte: GitHub