USB Alternative
eSATA
eSATA is the external form of Serial ATA, designed for direct-attached external storage.
Characteristics
| Technology family | Serial ATA |
|---|---|
| Primary purpose | External direct-attached storage |
| Data | Yes |
| Hot plugging | Supported by the eSATA standard and compatible hardware |
| Standard eSATA power | Not provided through the standard eSATA connector; separate powered variants also existed |
| Typical devices | External hard drives, storage enclosures, and direct-attached storage systems |
| Current status | Legacy or niche on modern consumer hardware |
