1. Introduction
The Lemorele TC800 is a versatile 9-in-2 USB-C docking station specifically designed for the Mac mini M4 and M4 Pro. It seamlessly integrates with your Mac mini, expanding its connectivity and storage capabilities without compromising its aesthetic or thermal performance. This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your docking station.
Figure 1: Lemorele TC800 Docking Station integrated with Mac mini, highlighting its design and features.
2. Key Features
- Designed for Mac mini M4/M4 Pro: Perfect port alignment and cohesive design.
- Dual 4K@60Hz Video Output: Equipped with DP 1.4 and HDMI 2.0 ports for dual-screen extension or mirror mode up to 4K 60Hz.
- High-Speed Data Ports: Includes 2x USB-A (5Gbps), 1x USB-A (10Gbps), and 1x USB-C (10Gbps) for rapid data transfer.
- Professional Card Reader: Built-in SD 3.0 and TF 3.0 card slots for efficient photography and video workflows.
- NVMe M.2 SSD Expansion Slot: Supports NVMe M.2 solid-state drives up to 10Gbps for high-speed storage expansion (SSD not included).
- Optimized Heat Dissipation: Engineered to maintain efficient cooling for your Mac mini.
- Plug and Play: Easy installation with no drivers required.
Figure 2: Overview of the TC800's ports and M.2 NVMe SSD enclosure.
3. Package Contents
Please check the package for the following items:
- Lemorele TC800 9-in-2 USB-C Docking Station
- User Manual
Figure 3: Items included in the package.
4. Setup Instructions
- Positioning: Place the Lemorele TC800 docking station on a stable, flat surface.
- Connect Mac mini: Gently place your Mac mini M4/M4 Pro onto the docking station, ensuring the USB-C host cable from the dock aligns and connects securely to the Mac mini's USB-C port. The design ensures a seamless and integrated fit.
- Power Access: The rounded corner design allows easy access to the Mac mini's power switch.
- External Devices: Connect your peripherals (monitors, USB devices, SD/TF cards) to the corresponding ports on the docking station.
Figure 4: Seamless integration of the TC800 with Mac mini.
Figure 5: Easy access to Mac mini power button.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1. Display Output
The TC800 supports dual 4K@60Hz video output via its DisplayPort (DP 1.4) and HDMI (HDMI 2.0) ports. Connect your monitors to these ports using appropriate cables. Your Mac mini will automatically detect the displays, allowing you to configure them for extended desktop or mirror mode through your Mac's display settings.
Figure 6: Dual 4K@60Hz display setup.
Figure 7: Triple display expansion capability.
Figure 8: Connecting to DP and HDMI monitors.
5.2. Data Transfer
Utilize the high-speed USB ports for connecting external drives, keyboards, mice, and other USB peripherals. The USB-C 10Gbps and USB-A 10Gbps ports are ideal for large file transfers, while the 5Gbps USB-A ports are suitable for standard peripherals.
Figure 9: High-speed data transfer in action.
5.3. Card Reader Functionality
Insert your MicroSD, SD, SDHC, or SDXC cards into the dedicated SD 3.0 and TF 3.0 slots for quick access to media files. This is particularly useful for photographers and videographers.
Figure 10: Using the integrated SD/TF card reader.
Figure 11: SD and TF card slots.
6. NVMe M.2 SSD Installation
The TC800 features a bottom-mounted NVMe M.2 SSD expansion slot for additional high-speed storage. Note: SSD is not included.
- Access Slot: Carefully detach the bottom cover of the docking station to reveal the M.2 SSD slot.
- Insert SSD: Insert your NVMe M.2 SSD (compatible with M Key and B&M Key, NVMe/PCIe protocols) into the slot at an angle.
- Secure SSD: Gently push down the SSD and secure it with the provided screw or retention mechanism.
- Reattach Cover: Replace the bottom cover of the docking station.
- Format Drive: Once connected to your Mac mini, the new SSD may need to be formatted through Disk Utility before use.
Figure 12: NVMe M.2 SSD installation.
Figure 13: Storage expansion potential.
Figure 14: Compatible SSD protocols and key types.
7. Heat Dissipation
The Lemorele TC800 is designed with an optimized cooling solution to ensure your Mac mini M4 operates efficiently without overheating. Its structure allows for proper airflow, preventing heat buildup even under heavy load.
Figure 15: Optimized cooling solution for Mac mini M4.
8. Specifications
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Model Number | TC800 |
| Brand Name | Lemorele |
| Compatible PC Devices | Mac Mini |
| Ports | 9 |
| Interface Type | USB Type-C |
| Standard | USB 3.1 Gen2 |
| Functions | Reader, Card Reader, DP, USB-C, HDMI-Compatible |
| SSD/HDD Slot | M.2 (NVMe PCIe, up to 10Gbps) |
| Video Output | Dual 4K@60Hz (HDMI 2.0, DP 1.4) |
| Card Reader | SD 3.0, TF 3.0 (MicroSD, SD, SDHC, SDXC compatible) |
| USB-A Ports | 2x 5Gbps, 1x 10Gbps |
| USB-C Ports | 1x 10Gbps (data), 1x Host Cable (4cm) |
| Package | Yes |
| Product Dimensions (L x W x H) | 22 cm x 21 cm x 4 cm (approx. 5 inch x 5 inch x 1.5 inch) |
| Product Weight | 0.5 kg |
9. Troubleshooting
- No Display Output:
- Ensure all display cables (HDMI, DP) are securely connected to both the dock and the monitor.
- Verify that your monitors are set to the correct input source.
- Check Mac mini's display settings to ensure external displays are detected and configured.
- Try restarting your Mac mini.
- USB Devices Not Detected:
- Ensure the USB-C host cable from the dock is firmly connected to your Mac mini.
- Try connecting the USB device to a different port on the dock.
- Test the USB device directly with your Mac mini to rule out device issues.
- SSD Not Appearing:
- Verify the M.2 SSD is correctly installed and secured in the slot.
- Open Disk Utility on your Mac mini to check if the SSD is detected but unformatted. Format it if necessary.
- Ensure the SSD is an NVMe M.2 type and compatible with the dock's specifications.
- Slow Data Transfer:
- Ensure you are using the 10Gbps USB-C or USB-A ports for high-speed devices.
- Check the cable quality; using a high-quality USB 3.1 Gen2 cable is recommended for optimal speeds.
- External factors like other connected devices or system load can affect transfer speeds.
10. User Tips
- For optimal performance, ensure your Mac mini's operating system is up to date.
- When connecting multiple high-bandwidth devices (e.g., dual 4K monitors and a high-speed SSD), ensure adequate power is supplied to your Mac mini.
- Keep the docking station's vents clear to maintain optimal heat dissipation.
- Always safely eject external storage devices (SSDs, SD cards) from your Mac mini before disconnecting them to prevent data corruption.
11. Warranty and Support
Lemorele products are designed for reliability and performance. For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the official Lemorele website or contact their customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.
