1. Product Overview
The MAIWO 2 Bay HDD Docking Station is a versatile external enclosure designed for 3.5-inch SATA I/II/III hard disk drives. It supports up to 48TB total capacity (24TB per bay) and features USB 3.0 connectivity for high-speed data transfer. With multiple RAID modes, a built-in cooling fan, and an automatic sleep function, it provides a reliable and efficient solution for data storage and management.
Package Contents
- MAIWO 2 Bay HDD Docking Station
- USB 3.0 Type-A to Type-A Data Cable
- 12V 4A Power Adapter
- User Manual (this document)
Device Components
- Hard Drive Indicator: Shows the status of installed hard drives.
- RAID LED Adapter: Indicates the active RAID mode.
- Reset button: Used for resetting the device or RAID configuration.
- Wind Control Button: Adjusts the cooling fan speed.
- Power Switch: Turns the device on/off.
- USB 3.0 Interface: Connects the docking station to your computer.
- RAID Transfer Button: Used in conjunction with the RAID Setting switches to apply RAID configurations.
- Power Supply Interface: Connects to the 12V 4A power adapter.
2. Setup Guide
Hardware Installation
Follow these steps to install your 3.5-inch SATA hard drives into the enclosure:
- Step 1: Take the plastic panel out of the enclosure.
- Step 2: Put the 3.5-inch HDD into the plastic panel and secure it with screws. (If using 2.5-inch HDD/SSD, an additional 2.5 to 3.5 mounting bracket is required, not included).
- Step 3: Put the plastic panel back into the enclosure and secure it with 3 screws.
- Step 4: Place the enclosure on the provided bracket for stability.
Connecting to Your Computer
- Connect the 12V 4A power adapter to the Power Supply Interface (DC 12V) on the docking station and plug it into a power outlet.
- Connect one end of the USB 3.0 Type-A to Type-A data cable to the USB 3.0 Interface on the docking station.
- Connect the other end of the USB 3.0 cable to an available USB 3.0 port on your computer.
- Turn on the docking station using the Power Switch.
The docking station is plug-and-play. Your operating system (Windows/Mac OS/Linux) should automatically detect the new hardware.
3. Operating Instructions
RAID Mode Configuration
The MAIWO docking station supports four RAID modes: RAID 0, RAID 1, LARGE (JBOD), and NORMAL (PM). You can configure these modes using the RAID Setting switches and the RAID Transfer Button on the rear panel.
IMPORTANT: Please back up all important data before changing RAID modes. Changing RAID modes will erase all data on the hard drives. For new drives, initialize and format them after setting the RAID mode.
| RAID Mode | Function Specification | Switch 1 | Switch 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| RAID 0 | Theoretical rate is twice that of a single disk, making reading and writing faster and more efficient. (Striping) | ON | ON |
| RAID 1 | Double disk guard backup, stores important data after damage to one disk, data will not be lost. (Mirroring) | OFF | ON |
| LARGE (JBOD) | Combined capacity is equal to the actual capacity of two hard disks, creating large-capacity storage space. (Concatenation) | ON | OFF |
| Normal (PM) | Two hard disks work independently, not affecting each other, making data storage simpler and more convenient. (Port Multiplier) | OFF | OFF |
To change RAID mode: Set the switches according to the table, then press and hold the RAID Transfer Button for 3-5 seconds until the RAID LED Adapter changes, indicating the new mode is active.
Data Transfer
The docking station utilizes a USB 3.0 Type-A interface, offering high-speed data transmission up to 5Gbps. It supports UASP protocol for enhanced performance on Windows 8.1 and above operating systems.
Automatic Sleep Function
To conserve energy and extend hard drive lifespan, the docking station features an automatic sleep design. If there is no action within 3 minutes, the device will enter sleep mode. It will automatically wake up upon activity.
4. Maintenance
Cooling System
The docking station is equipped with a powerful built-in cooling fan and a full aluminum body to ensure efficient heat dissipation, preventing your hard drives from overheating and maintaining optimal performance.
Physical Protection
The enclosure features a unique drop-resistant design. The bottom bracket is equipped with four circular wear-resistant, non-slip silicone pads, and both sides have shockproof pads to protect the hard disk box from scratches and impacts during handling and operation.
General Care
- Keep the device in a clean, dry environment.
- Avoid exposing the device to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight.
- Do not block the ventilation holes.
- Clean the exterior with a soft, dry cloth.
5. Troubleshooting
- Device not recognized: Ensure all cables (USB and power) are securely connected. Try a different USB port on your computer. Verify the power switch is in the 'ON' position.
- Hard drives not appearing: If using new hard drives, they may need to be initialized and formatted through your operating system's Disk Management utility after setting the desired RAID mode. Ensure hard drives are properly seated in their bays.
- Slow transfer speeds: Ensure you are connected to a USB 3.0 port on your computer. For optimal performance, ensure your operating system supports UASP (Windows 8.1 or above).
- RAID configuration issues: Always back up data before changing RAID modes. If a RAID configuration fails, ensure the switches are set correctly and press the RAID Transfer Button firmly for 3-5 seconds. Re-initialize and format drives if necessary.
- Overheating: Ensure the cooling fan is operating and not obstructed. Check that the ambient temperature is within acceptable limits.
6. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Maiwo |
| Model Number | MAIWO (FRSMART Series) |
| Drive Bays | 2 |
| Compatible Drives | 3.5-inch SATA I/II/III HDD (2.5-inch HDD/SSD requires mounting bracket) |
| Max Capacity per Bay | 24TB |
| Total Max Capacity | 48TB |
| External Interface | USB 3.0 Type-A |
| Transfer Speed | Up to 5Gbps (USB 3.0) |
| RAID Modes | RAID 0, RAID 1, LARGE (JBOD), NORMAL (PM) |
| Cooling | Built-in fan with two-speed control |
| Case Material | Aluminum |
| Power Adapter | 12V 4A |
| Operating System Support | Windows, Mac OS, Linux |
| Features | LED Progress Indicator, Plug & Play, Automatic Sleep |
7. Warranty and Support
Warranty Information
This product comes with a 1-year warranty from the date of purchase, covering manufacturing defects. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
Technical Support
For technical assistance or inquiries, please contact the seller or manufacturer's support channels. Refer to the product packaging or seller's website for contact details.
8. User Tips
- Data Backup: Always back up critical data before performing any RAID configuration changes, as this will erase existing data on the drives.
- Internet Access for Files: This docking station can be used for backing up files and accessing them from the internet if connected to a computer that is itself connected to the internet and configured for remote access or network sharing.
- New Drive Preparation: Remember to initialize and format new hard drives through your operating system's Disk Management utility after installing them and setting the desired RAID mode.
- Optimal Performance: For the best transfer speeds, ensure your computer has USB 3.0 ports and your operating system supports UASP (Windows 8.1 or newer).
- Cooling: Utilize the two-speed wind control button to adjust the cooling fan for optimal temperature management, especially during prolonged use or heavy data transfers.
