1. Introduction
The AOOSTAR EG01/EG02 EGPU Dock is designed to enhance the graphics performance of your laptop or mini PC by connecting an external graphics card. It features high-speed OCuLink and Thunderbolt 5 interfaces, offering superior data transmission and power delivery capabilities. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your EGPU dock.
2. Product Features
- OCuLink Interface: Features a safety lock to prevent data cable disconnection during movement. Offers superior transmission efficiency compared to traditional USB/Thunderbolt solutions, reducing signal interference and providing faster speeds. Ideal for external graphics cards and high-speed storage devices.
- Dual Thunderbolt 5 Ports: Provides up to 80Gbps bidirectional bandwidth, twice the speed of the previous generation. The left port offers 27W power to downstream devices and supports DisplayPort video protocol. The right port is a Thunderbolt 5 input port, connecting to Thunderbolt 5 devices and providing up to 140W power to upstream devices.
- DC Power Supply Port: The graphics card dock supports 6-pin to DC power conversion, delivering robust power to mini PCs or other devices.
- PCIe 4.0 x4 Anti-Interference Expansion Interface: Features metal armor with a theoretical bandwidth of up to 64 GT/s, providing enhanced signal interference resistance and greater stability.
- Dual-Specification Power Supply Compatibility: Supports ATX/SFX standard power supplies, seamlessly accommodating both high-performance ATX units and compact SFX power supplies to flexibly meet diverse power requirements.
- Detachable Multi-Functional Mount: Stackable design saves 40% of desktop space for your computer or other items.
- Supports Lenovo TGX Hot-Swap: Applicable for Thinkbook 14+/16+ 2024 Core Edition laptops.
- DC Adapter Cable: Comes with a DC adapter cable for use in two locations with just one adapter.
3. Setup Instructions
- Prepare the Graphics Card: Ensure your external graphics card is compatible with the PCIe 4.0x4 interface.
- Install Graphics Card: Carefully insert your graphics card into the PCIe slot on the EGPU dock. Secure it with any provided fasteners.
- Connect Power Supply: Connect a compatible ATX or SFX power supply to the EGPU dock. Ensure all necessary power cables (e.g., 6-pin/8-pin PCIe power connectors) are securely attached to the graphics card.
- Assemble the Stand (Optional): If using the detachable multi-functional mount, assemble it according to the diagram to save desktop space. The stand allows for stacking a mini PC above the graphics card.
- Connect to Host Device:
- For OCuLink Connection: Connect the OCuLink cable from the EGPU dock to your laptop or mini PC's OCuLink port.
- For Thunderbolt 5 Connection: Connect a Thunderbolt 5 cable from the EGPU dock's input port (right port) to your laptop or mini PC's Thunderbolt 5 port.
- Connect Peripherals: Connect your monitor(s) to the output ports of the installed graphics card. Connect any other USB peripherals to the available USB ports on the EGPU dock or your host device.
- Power On: Power on the external power supply for the EGPU dock, then power on your laptop or mini PC.
4. Operating Instructions
Once the EGPU dock is set up and connected, your host device should automatically detect the external graphics card. You may need to install the latest drivers for your specific graphics card from the manufacturer's website.
- Gaming: Enjoy enhanced gaming performance by utilizing the power of a dedicated external graphics card.
- Content Creation: Accelerate video editing, 3D rendering, and other graphics-intensive tasks.
- Charging: The Thunderbolt 5 input port can provide up to 140W of power to charge your connected laptop while in use.
5. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Regularly clean the exterior of the EGPU dock with a soft, dry cloth. Ensure ventilation openings are free from dust and obstructions to maintain optimal airflow.
- Cable Management: Keep all cables organized and free from kinks or excessive tension to prevent damage.
- Storage: When not in use for extended periods, store the EGPU dock in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
6. Troubleshooting
- Device Not Recognized:
- Ensure all cables (OCuLink/Thunderbolt, power) are securely connected.
- Verify that the external power supply for the EGPU dock is turned on.
- Check your laptop's BIOS/UEFI settings to ensure Thunderbolt/OCuLink external GPU support is enabled.
- Install or update the latest graphics card drivers from the manufacturer's website.
- No Display Output:
- Confirm that your monitor is connected to the graphics card output ports, not your laptop's integrated graphics ports.
- Try a different display cable or monitor.
- Ensure the graphics card is fully seated in the PCIe slot and receiving adequate power.
- Poor Performance:
- Ensure your laptop's Thunderbolt/OCuLink port supports the full bandwidth (e.g., 80Gbps for Thunderbolt 5).
- Verify that your graphics card drivers are up to date.
- Check for any background applications consuming excessive resources on your host device.
7. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | EG01 / EG02 |
| Type | Laptop Docking Station (eGPU Dock) |
| Interface | OCuLink, Thunderbolt 5 (PCIe 4.0x4) |
| Thunderbolt 5 Bandwidth | Up to 80Gbps bidirectional |
| Thunderbolt 5 Power Delivery | 27W (output to downstream), 140W (input from upstream) |
| Power Supply Compatibility | ATX / SFX standard power supplies |
| Material | Plastic |
| Length | 31cm |
| Width | 21.5cm |
| Package | Yes |
| Origin | Mainland China |
| Certification | CE |
| High-concerned chemical | None |
| Plug Type | EU Plug, US Plug, JP Plug, UK Plug, AU Plug (depending on region) |
8. User Tips
- Compatibility Check: Before purchasing or connecting, always verify that your laptop or mini PC's USB4/Thunderbolt port is compatible with external GPUs and supports the required bandwidth for optimal performance.
- Space Saving: Utilize the detachable multi-functional mount to stack your mini PC on top of the EGPU dock, effectively saving desktop space.
- Power Convenience: The included DC adapter cable allows for flexible power setup, potentially eliminating the need for a separate adapter for your host device if it can be powered via the dock's DC interface.
9. Warranty and Support
AOOSTAR products are designed for reliability and performance. For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the official AOOSTAR website or contact your retailer. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
