1. Introduction
This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of the Akasa Lokstor M21 2 Bay 2.5" Mobile Rack (Model AK-IEN-03). This device allows you to install two 2.5-inch SATA Solid State Drives (SSDs) or Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) into a single standard 3.5-inch PC drive bay, offering convenient and tool-free access to your storage devices.
2. Product Overview
2.1 Key Features
- Accommodates two 2.5" SATA SSDs/HDDs (up to 9.5mm height) in a single 3.5" PC drive bay.
- Tool-free design for easy installation and removal of 2.5" drives.
- Durable stainless steel and plastic construction.
- Integrated security lock with key for drive protection.
- Supports SATA I, II, and III interfaces with transfer rates up to 6Gbps.
- Hot-swap functionality supported (requires compatible system configuration).
2.2 Components
The Akasa Lokstor M21 includes the mobile rack unit and necessary accessories for installation.
Figure 1: Front view of the Akasa Lokstor M21 mobile rack, showing the two drive bays and eject mechanisms.
Figure 2: Diagram highlighting key features: (1) Steel structure, (2) Security lock with key, (3) Two 2.5" SATA SSD/HDD bays, (4) Tool-free HDD access mechanism.
3. Setup and Installation
3.1 Installing the Mobile Rack into a PC Bay
- Ensure your computer is powered off and disconnected from the main power supply.
- Open your computer case to access the internal drive bays.
- Locate an available 3.5-inch drive bay. This is typically a bay designed for floppy drives or card readers.
- Slide the Akasa Lokstor M21 into the 3.5-inch bay from the front of the case until it is flush with the front panel.
- Secure the mobile rack using screws through the side mounting holes into the drive bay frame.
3.2 Connecting Cables
- Connect the SATA data cables from the mobile rack's rear connectors to available SATA ports on your motherboard.
- Connect the SATA power cable from your power supply unit (PSU) to the mobile rack's power connector.
- Ensure all connections are secure.
Figure 3: Rear view of the mobile rack, illustrating the SATA data and power connections for the two drive bays.
3.3 Installing 2.5" SSD/HDD
- Ensure the security lock (if engaged) is in the unlocked position.
- Gently slide your 2.5-inch SSD or HDD into one of the available bays until it clicks securely into place. The tool-free mechanism will engage the drive's SATA connectors.
- Repeat for the second drive if desired.
Figure 4: A 2.5-inch drive being inserted or ejected from the mobile rack, showcasing the tool-free mechanism.
Note on Hot-Swapping: For hot-swapping functionality (inserting or removing drives while the system is running), ensure that AHCI mode is enabled in your computer's BIOS/UEFI settings for the SATA controller connected to the mobile rack. If AHCI is not enabled, drives may not be detected or may cause system instability when hot-swapped.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1 Drive Insertion and Removal
- To Insert: Align the 2.5" drive with an empty bay and push it firmly until it locks into place.
- To Remove: Ensure the security lock is disengaged. Press the eject button or lever on the front of the bay to release the drive, then pull it out.
4.2 Using the Security Lock
The Akasa Lokstor M21 features a key lock mechanism to secure your drives in place, preventing accidental removal or unauthorized access.
Figure 5: The security lock mechanism with the key inserted, demonstrating how to lock or unlock a drive bay.
- To Lock: Insert the provided key into the lock slot on the front of the desired drive bay and turn it to the locked position. This will prevent the drive from being ejected.
- To Unlock: Insert the key and turn it to the unlocked position. The drive can now be ejected.
Important: Always remove the key after locking or unlocking to prevent loss or damage.
5. Maintenance
- Keep the mobile rack clean and free from dust. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning.
- Avoid exposing the unit to extreme temperatures or humidity.
- Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Ensure proper airflow around the unit within your PC case to prevent overheating of installed drives.
6. Troubleshooting
- Drive not detected:
- Check if the SATA data and power cables are securely connected to both the mobile rack and the motherboard/PSU.
- Ensure the 2.5" drive is fully inserted into the bay and locked into place.
- Verify that AHCI mode is enabled in your system's BIOS/UEFI settings for the SATA controller.
- Test the drive directly connected to the motherboard to rule out drive failure.
- Hot-swapping not working:
- Confirm AHCI mode is enabled in BIOS/UEFI.
- Ensure your operating system supports hot-swapping for SATA devices.
- Always safely eject drives through the operating system before physical removal.
- Drive difficult to insert/eject:
- Ensure the security lock is in the unlocked position.
- Verify the drive is correctly oriented and not obstructed.
- Do not force the drive; check for any foreign objects in the bay.
7. Specifications
| Model Number | AK-IEN-03 |
| Application | HDD mobile rack for 3.5" PC bay |
| Designed For | 2 x 2.5" SATA SSD/HDD (9.5 mm high) |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 140 x 101.6 x 25 mm (5.51 x 4 x 0.98 inches) |
| Material | Stainless steel and plastic |
| SATA Compatibility | SATA I / II / III |
| Interface | SATA |
| Transfer Rate | Up to 6Gbps (SATA III) |
| Hot Swap Support | Yes (requires AHCI enabled) |
| Compatible Devices | Desktop PCs |
| Item Weight | 0.32 ounces (approx. 9 grams) |
8. Warranty and Support
8.1 Warranty Information
Specific warranty terms for the Akasa Lokstor M21 (AK-IEN-03) may vary by region and retailer. Please refer to the warranty information provided at the point of purchase or visit the official Akasa website for detailed warranty policies.
8.2 Technical Support
For technical assistance, troubleshooting beyond the scope of this manual, or inquiries regarding your Akasa product, please visit the official Akasa support website or contact their customer service department. Contact information can typically be found on the Akasa website:
