External SATA (eSATA) cables are designed to connect external SATA devices to either external SATA ports or internal SATA connectors. Unlike cables for internal applications eSATA cabling must be shielded. The eSATA connectors are keyed differently to prevent the use of internal SATA cables in external applications. While internal SATA connectors have an "L" shaped key eSATA connectors use smaller vertically offset keys. This shielded eSATA cable is certified to perform to SATA 6 Gbps performance standards. Each end is terminated in an eSATA connector for use with external SATA devices and controller ports only. Note that SATA 6 Gbps cables are backwards compatible and can be use d with SATA 3 Gbps and SATA 1. 5 Gbps devices.