LC-Power LC-DOCK-U3-III USB 3.0 Dual Bay HDD Docking Station User Manual

1. Overview

The LC-Power LC-DOCK-U3-III is a versatile USB 3.0 dual bay docking station designed for 2.5-inch and 3.5-inch SATA HDDs/SSDs. It provides a convenient solution for accessing multiple hard drives, data backup, and disk cloning without the need for a computer connection. This manual provides detailed instructions for setup, operation, and maintenance of your docking station.

Image 1.1: Front view of the LC-Power LC-DOCK-U3-III Docking Station, showing two drive bays and LED indicators.

2. Product Features

• Supports two 2.5-inch or 3.5-inch SATA I/II/III HDDs/SSDs simultaneously.
• USB 3.0 interface for high-speed data transfer (up to 5 Gbps).
• Backward compatible with USB 2.0.
• Standalone clone function (computer-independent disk duplication).
• LED indicators for power, activity, and cloning progress.
• Plug & Play functionality, no driver installation required for most operating systems.
• Compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems.

3. Package Contents

Please check the package for the following items:

• LC-Power LC-DOCK-U3-III Docking Station
• USB 3.0 Cable
• Power Adapter
• User Manual (this document)

Image 3.1: Retail packaging of the LC-Power LC-DOCK-U3-III, showing the product and key features.

4. Setup Instructions

Follow these steps to set up your docking station:

1. Connect Power: Connect the included power adapter to the DC 12V port on the back of the docking station and then plug it into a power outlet.
2. Connect to Computer (Optional for cloning): Connect the USB 3.0 cable from the docking station's USB 3.0 port to an available USB 3.0 port on your computer. If your computer only has USB 2.0 ports, the device will still function but at USB 2.0 speeds.
3. Insert Hard Drives:
   • Ensure the docking station is powered off (ON/OFF switch in OFF position).
   • Carefully insert your 2.5-inch or 3.5-inch SATA HDDs/SSDs into the drive bays. Ensure they are firmly seated.
4. Power On: Flip the ON/OFF switch on the back of the docking station to the ON position. The power LED will illuminate.

Image 4.1: Rear panel of the docking station, highlighting the USB 3.0 port, DC 12V power input, and ON/OFF switch.

Image 4.2: Example of 2.5-inch and 3.5-inch hard drives correctly inserted into the docking station bays.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1. Data Transfer Mode (Connected to Computer)

1. Ensure the docking station is connected to your computer via the USB 3.0 cable and powered on.
2. Insert one or two SATA HDDs/SSDs into the bays.
3. Your operating system should automatically detect the drives. They will appear as removable storage devices.
4. You can now access, read, and write data to the drives as you would with any other external storage.
5. Important: Always use the "Safely Remove Hardware" option in your operating system before disconnecting the docking station or removing drives to prevent data corruption.

5.2. Standalone Clone Function

The cloning function allows you to duplicate a source drive to a target drive without a computer connection. The target drive must be equal to or larger than the source drive's capacity.

1. Preparation:
   • Ensure the docking station is powered off and disconnected from the computer.
   • Insert the Source Drive (the drive you want to copy FROM) into the HDD1 (Source) bay.
   • Insert the Target Drive (the drive you want to copy TO) into the HDD2 (Target) bay.
   • Verify that the target drive has equal or greater capacity than the source drive. All data on the target drive will be overwritten.
2. Start Cloning:
   • Power on the docking station.
   • Press and hold the "Clone" button (often labeled "One Touch Clone" or similar) for approximately 3-5 seconds until the cloning progress LEDs begin to flash.
   • Release the button. The cloning process will begin.
3. Monitor Progress: The LED indicators (e.g., 25%, 50%, 75%, 100%) will illuminate sequentially to show the cloning progress.
4. Completion: Once all progress LEDs are solid, the cloning process is complete.
5. Power Off and Remove: Power off the docking station before removing the drives.

Warning: Do not interrupt the cloning process. Doing so may result in data loss or corruption on both drives.

6. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the docking station. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents.
• Storage: When not in use, store the docking station in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Handling: Handle the docking station and hard drives with care to avoid physical damage. Avoid dropping or subjecting the device to strong impacts.

7. Troubleshooting

8. Specifications

9. Safety Information

• Do not expose the device to moisture, dust, or extreme temperatures.
• Use only the provided power adapter. Using unauthorized adapters may damage the device and void the warranty.
• Do not attempt to disassemble or repair the device yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
• Keep the device away from strong magnetic fields.
• Ensure proper ventilation around the device during operation.

10. Warranty and Support

LC-Power products are covered by a limited warranty. For detailed warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official LC-Power website. For technical support, troubleshooting assistance, or to inquire about replacement parts, please contact LC-Power customer service through their official channels.

LC-Power Official Website: www.lc-power.com