1. Introduction
The SSK M.2 NVMe/SATA SSD Enclosure Adapter (Model SHE-C325) provides a convenient solution for converting your M.2 NVMe or SATA SSD into a portable external storage device. Featuring a durable aluminum alloy casing and high-speed USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gbps) interface, this enclosure ensures fast data transfer and excellent heat dissipation. It supports UASP and Trim protocols for optimized performance and longevity of your SSD.
2. Safety Information
- Do not expose the device to water or excessive moisture.
- Avoid dropping or subjecting the device to strong impacts.
- Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the enclosure, as this may void the warranty and cause damage.
- Ensure proper ventilation to prevent overheating during prolonged use.
- Keep out of reach of children.
3. Package Contents
Please check the package for the following items:
- SSK M.2 NVMe/SATA SSD Enclosure Adapter (Model SHE-C325)
- USB Type-C to Type-C Cable
- USB Type-C to Type-A Cable
- Thermal Pad
- Screwdriver
- Mounting Screws (Screw A, Screw B) and Washer
4. Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Model Number | SHE-C325 |
| Brand Name | SSK |
| Hard Disk Types | M.2 NVMe PCIe & SATA (M-Key / B+M Key) SSD |
| Supported SSD Sizes | 2242, 2260, 2280mm |
| Interface | USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C |
| Transfer Speed | Up to 10Gbps (1GB/s) |
| Case Material | Aluminum Alloy |
| Features | UASP, TRIM, S.M.A.R.T, Auto Sleep (20 min) |
| Compatibility | Windows 7/8/8.1/10, Linux, macOS |
| Plug-and-Play | Yes, no additional drivers required |
| Power Supply | Bus-powered (no external power needed) |
5. Compatibility
5.1 Supported SSDs
- M.2 NVMe PCIe SSDs (M-Key)
- M.2 SATA SSDs (B+M Key)
- Supported SSD form factors: 2242, 2260, 2280mm
5.2 Incompatible SSDs
- M.2 SATA SSDs (B Key only)
- M.2 PCIe AHCI SSDs
- M.2 PCIe devices such as WiFi cards or capture cards
- mSATA SSDs
- Any non-M.2 form factor SSDs
Always check your SSD label. If it prints "PCIE" or "NVME" and is M-Key, it is likely compatible. If it prints "SATA" and is B+M Key, it is compatible. If it prints "SATA" and is B-Key only, it is NOT compatible.
6. Setup and Installation
Follow these steps to install your M.2 SSD into the enclosure:
- Pull out the internal PCB board: Gently slide the internal PCB board out from the aluminum alloy casing.
- Insert SSD: Fully insert your M.2 SSD into the M.2 slot on the PCB board. Ensure the key type (M-Key or B+M Key) matches the slot.
- Secure the SSD: Clamp the provided washer into the notch at the end of the SSD. Then, use Screw A (from the installation pack) and the screwdriver to lock the washer from the back of the PCB, securing the SSD in place.
- Attach Thermal Pad: Peel off the protective film from both sides of the thermal pad and carefully place it onto the SSD chip. This helps with heat dissipation.
- Close the Enclosure: Carefully slide the PCB board with the installed SSD back into the aluminum alloy casing. Use Screw B to secure the enclosure.
7. Operating Instructions
7.1 Connecting to a Computer
- Connect one end of the provided USB Type-C cable to the enclosure's Type-C port.
- Connect the other end of the cable to an available USB Type-C port on your computer. If your computer only has USB Type-A ports, use the provided USB Type-C to Type-A cable.
- The blue indicator light on the enclosure will illuminate when connected. It will blink during data transfer.
- Your computer should automatically detect the new external drive. If it's a new SSD, it may need to be formatted before use (see Section 9.1).
7.2 Data Transfer
Once connected, you can drag and drop files to and from the external SSD as you would with any other storage device. The USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface allows for speeds up to 10Gbps, enabling rapid transfer of large files.
7.3 Auto Sleep Function
The enclosure features an auto-sleep function that activates after 20 minutes of inactivity to conserve power and extend the life of your SSD.
8. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the enclosure. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents.
- Heat Dissipation: The aluminum alloy casing and thermal pad are designed for excellent heat dissipation. Ensure the enclosure is not covered or placed in an enclosed space during operation to allow for proper airflow.
- Safe Removal: Always safely eject the external drive from your operating system before disconnecting the cable to prevent data corruption.
9. Troubleshooting
9.1 Drive Not Detected
- Check Connections: Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to both the enclosure and your computer. Try a different USB port or cable.
- SSD Installation: Verify that the M.2 SSD is correctly and fully inserted into the enclosure's slot and secured with the washer and screw.
- SSD Compatibility: Confirm that your M.2 SSD is compatible with this enclosure (NVMe PCIe M-Key or SATA B+M Key). Refer to Section 5.2 for incompatible types.
- New SSD Formatting: For a brand new SSD, it must be initialized and formatted before it appears in your operating system.
- Windows: Go to Disk Management, find the unallocated disk, initialize it (GPT recommended for larger drives), and create a new simple volume.
- macOS: Use Disk Utility to erase and format the drive.
- Operating System Support: Ensure your operating system (Windows 7/8/8.1/10, Linux, macOS) is supported.
9.2 Slow Transfer Speeds
- USB Port: Ensure you are connected to a USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gbps) or Thunderbolt 3 port on your computer for optimal performance. Connecting to a slower USB 2.0 or 3.0 port will limit speeds.
- Cable Quality: Use the provided high-quality USB cables.
- UASP/TRIM: Verify that your operating system supports UASP (USB Attached SCSI Protocol) and TRIM for M.2 SSDs, as these enhance performance.
- SSD Performance: The actual speed depends on the performance of your M.2 SSD.
9.3 Enclosure Gets Warm
It is normal for the aluminum alloy casing to become warm during operation, especially during heavy data transfer. This is due to its design for efficient heat dissipation from the SSD. If it becomes excessively hot, ensure proper ventilation and that the thermal pad is correctly installed.
10. User Tips
- For maximum speed, always connect the enclosure to a USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gbps) or Thunderbolt 3 port on your host device.
- If using with a new SSD, remember to initialize and format the drive through your operating system's disk management tools before it can be used.
- The enclosure is bus-powered, meaning it draws power directly from the USB port. No external power adapter is needed, making it highly portable.
- The blue indicator light provides a quick visual cue: solid blue when connected, blinking blue during data activity.
11. Warranty and Support
SSK products come with a standard manufacturer's warranty. For detailed warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the official SSK website or contact their customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.