Transcend 256GB MTS800 M.2 SATA III SSD Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your Transcend 256GB MTS800 M.2 SATA III 6Gb/s Solid State Drive (SSD). The MTS800 is designed to enhance your computer's performance with its compact M.2 form factor and high-speed data transfer capabilities. Please read this manual thoroughly before proceeding with installation or use.

Image: Transcend 256GB MTS800 M.2 SSD in its retail packaging, showing the product and its capacity.

2. Key Features

• High Performance: Utilizes SATA III 6Gb/s interface for fast read and write speeds.
• Compact M.2 Form Factor: 80mm length, ideal for ultrabooks, laptops, and other mobile computing devices.
• MLC NAND Flash Memory: Ensures superior stability, endurance, and reliability for demanding applications.
• DDR3 DRAM Cache: Improves access times and overall system responsiveness.
• Power Shield: Protects data integrity during unexpected power outages.
• Dev Sleep Mode: Allows the device to completely shut down the SATA interface to conserve battery life.
• Advanced Technologies: Supports S.M.A.R.T., TRIM, and NCQ commands for optimized performance and longevity.
• Error Correcting Code (ECC): Detects and corrects data transfer errors to prevent corruption.
• Garbage Collection: Manages memory blocks to maintain optimal performance.
• Wear-leveling: Distributes data evenly across memory cells to prolong the SSD's lifespan.

Image: The Transcend MTS800 M.2 SSD, emphasizing its ultra-thin design, MLC NAND flash, DDR3 DRAM cache, and high durability.

Image: Visual representation of the MTS800 SSD's potent features, including Error Correcting Code (ECC), Garbage Collection, Wear-leveling, DevSleep, and DDR3 DRAM cache.

3. Setup and Installation

Installing the Transcend MTS800 M.2 SSD requires opening your computer case or laptop. If you are unfamiliar with hardware installation, it is recommended to seek assistance from a qualified technician. Always back up your data before performing any hardware changes.

3.1 Compatibility Check

Ensure your motherboard or laptop supports M.2 SATA III 6Gb/s SSDs of the 80mm (2280) form factor. Refer to your device's manual for specific M.2 slot specifications and compatibility. The MTS800 is compliant with all M.2 form factors from Type 2242, 2260, to 2280.

3.2 Physical Installation Steps

1. Power Off: Completely shut down your computer and disconnect all power cables. For laptops, remove the battery if possible.
2. Open Case: Open your computer's case or laptop's bottom panel to access the motherboard.
3. Locate M.2 Slot: Identify the M.2 slot on your motherboard. It typically has a small screw stand-off at the end.
4. Insert SSD: Gently insert the Transcend MTS800 SSD into the M.2 slot at a 30-degree angle. The gold contacts should slide in smoothly.
5. Secure SSD: Push the SSD down until it is parallel with the motherboard. Secure it with the small screw provided with your motherboard or laptop.
6. Close Case: Reassemble your computer or laptop.

Image: The Transcend MTS800 M.2 SSD positioned next to a laptop, illustrating its suitability for ultrabooks and lightweight notebooks.

3.3 Software Setup

1. Boot Up: Power on your computer. Access the BIOS/UEFI settings to ensure the SSD is recognized.
2. Initialize and Format: For a new SSD, you will need to initialize it in Disk Management (Windows) or Disk Utility (macOS/Linux) and then format it before use.
3. Operating System Installation/Migration: You can install a fresh operating system on the SSD or migrate your existing OS from another drive using cloning software.
4. OS Requirements: Compatible with Windows XP/Vista/7/8 or Linux Kernel 2.6.31, or later.

4. Operation

Once installed and configured, your Transcend MTS800 SSD operates like any other storage drive. Its primary benefit is significantly faster data access and system responsiveness compared to traditional hard disk drives.

4.1 Everyday Use

• Use the SSD for your operating system and frequently accessed applications to maximize performance.
• Store large files or less frequently used data on a secondary hard drive if available, to preserve SSD space and performance.

4.2 Transcend SSD Scope Software

Transcend offers the free SSD Scope software, which allows you to monitor the health of your SSD, enable TRIM, update firmware, and perform other maintenance tasks. It is highly recommended to download and install this utility from the official Transcend website.

5. Maintenance

Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your SSD.

• TRIM Command: Ensure TRIM is enabled in your operating system. TRIM helps the SSD manage deleted data blocks, preventing performance degradation over time. SSD Scope software can verify and enable TRIM.
• S.M.A.R.T. Monitoring: The SSD supports Self-Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology (S.M.A.R.T.). Use SSD Scope or other diagnostic tools to monitor the drive's health status.
• NCQ (Native Command Queuing): This feature optimizes the order of read/write commands, improving performance. It is typically enabled automatically by your operating system and SATA controller.
• Firmware Updates: Periodically check the Transcend website or use SSD Scope for firmware updates. Firmware updates can improve performance, stability, and compatibility.
• Avoid Full Capacity: While not strictly necessary, keeping some free space (e.g., 10-15%) on your SSD can help maintain performance, especially for wear-leveling and garbage collection algorithms.

6. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Transcend MTS800 SSD, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

• SSD Not Detected:
  • Ensure the SSD is correctly seated in the M.2 slot.
  • Check BIOS/UEFI settings to confirm the M.2 slot is enabled and the drive is recognized.
  • Verify that your motherboard's M.2 slot supports SATA-based M.2 SSDs (some slots are PCIe-only).
  • Test the SSD in another compatible system if possible.
• Performance Issues:
  • Ensure TRIM is enabled.
  • Check for the latest SATA drivers for your motherboard.
  • Verify that the SSD is connected to a SATA III (6Gb/s) port.
  • Run Transcend SSD Scope to check drive health and optimize settings.
• Operating System Errors:
  • Perform a clean installation of the operating system.
  • If cloning, ensure the cloning process was successful and the source drive was healthy.
  • Check for OS updates.

For further assistance, please visit the official Transcend support website or contact their customer service.

7. Specifications

Note: Speed may vary due to host hardware, software, usage, and storage capacity.

Image: Detailed specifications for the Transcend MTS800 M.2 SSD, including dimensions, capacity, speeds, and operating conditions.

8. Warranty and Support

The Transcend MTS800 SSD comes with a Three-year Limited Warranty. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.

For warranty claims, technical support, or to download the latest drivers and SSD Scope software, please visit the official Transcend website: www.transcend-info.com.

Note: Warranty does not apply when SSD Scope's wear-out indicator displays 0% within the warranty coverage.