DIY CFexpress Cards: A Cheaper Alternative to Expensive Storage Option

Fed up with expensive CFexpress cards? Just make one yourself!

CFexpress cards have become increasingly popular in recent years, thanks to their high-speed performance and compatibility with many professional cameras. However, these cards can come with a hefty price tag, with some models costing hundreds of dollars for a single card. But what if we told you that you can make your own CFexpress card for a fraction of the cost?

It might sound like a daunting task, but creating your own CFexpress card is actually possible with the right tools and some technical know-how. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of making your own CFexpress card, from the necessary equipment to the steps involved in creating the card.

What you'll need:

Before you start making your CFexpress card, you'll need to gather the necessary equipment. Here's what you'll need:

• A CFexpress connector (Type B)

• A PCIe-to-CFexpress adapter card

• A blank M.2 NVMe SSD

• A heat gun or a hot air rework station

• A soldering iron and solder

• A multimeter

• An anti-static wrist strap

Step 1: Preparing the M.2 NVMe SSD

The first step is to prepare the M.2 NVMe SSD that will be used as the memory storage for your CFexpress card. You'll need to remove the original enclosure from the SSD by carefully unscrewing it. Be sure to ground yourself with an anti-static wrist strap before handling the SSD to prevent any damage from electrostatic discharge.

Once you've removed the enclosure, you'll need to prepare the SSD for the next step. This involves removing any thermal pads or stickers that may be on the SSD, as well as cleaning the surface of the SSD with isopropyl alcohol.

Step 2: Attaching the CFexpress connector

Next, you'll need to attach the CFexpress connector to the M.2 NVMe SSD. This requires using a heat gun or a hot air rework station to melt the solder on the existing pins of the SSD, and then removing the pins with a soldering iron. You'll then need to solder the new CFexpress connector onto the SSD, making sure to follow the pinout diagram and the polarity of the connector.

Step 3: Attaching the PCIe-to-CFexpress adapter card

Once the CFexpress connector is securely attached to the M.2 NVMe SSD, you can then attach the PCIe-to-CFexpress adapter card. This involves inserting the M.2 NVMe SSD with the CFexpress connector into the adapter card, and then securing it with screws.

Step 4: Testing and verification

Before you start using your newly created CFexpress card, it's important to test and verify that it's functioning properly. This involves using a multimeter to check the voltage and continuity of the various pins on the CFexpress connector. You can also test the speed and performance of the card using a benchmarking tool.

Conclusion:

Creating your own CFexpress card may seem like a challenging task, but it's actually achievable with the right tools and some technical knowledge. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can save yourself a significant amount of money while still enjoying the benefits of a high-speed and reliable CFexpress card. Just remember to take your time, follow the instructions carefully, and prioritize safety throughout the process.