1. Introduction
This manual provides essential instructions for the setup, operation, and maintenance of your BUFFALO Mini Station HD-PCFS2.0U3-BBA 2TB Portable Hard Disk Drive. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the product to ensure proper functionality and data integrity. Keep this manual for future reference.
Image 1.1: Top view of the BUFFALO Mini Station Portable HDD, showcasing its sleek black design and indicator light.
2. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in the package:
- BUFFALO Mini Station HD-PCFS2.0U3-BBA Portable HDD (2TB)
- USB 3.1 (Gen1) cable (approximately 50 cm / 19.7 inches)
- Instruction Manual
3. Setup and Connection
3.1 Connecting to Your Computer
The BUFFALO Mini Station connects to your computer using a single USB cable, drawing power directly from the USB port. No external power adapter is typically required.
- Locate an available USB Type-A port on your computer.
- Connect one end of the supplied USB 3.1 (Gen1) cable to the USB port on the Mini Station.
- Connect the other end of the USB cable to the USB Type-A port on your computer.
Image 3.1: The portable HDD connected to a laptop via the included 50cm USB Type-A cable, demonstrating bus-powered operation without an external power source.
3.2 Initial Recognition and Power
Upon successful connection, the drive's indicator light will illuminate, and your computer should recognize the device. If the drive is not recognized, consider the following:
- Direct Connection: If using a bus-powered USB hub, disconnect the product from the hub and connect it directly to a USB port on your computer. Some USB hubs may not provide sufficient power.
- Self-Powered USB Hub: Utilize a USB hub that has its own external power supply.
- Optional AC Adapter: For situations requiring additional power, an optional AC adapter (model AC-DC5PSC2) can be used (sold separately).
3.3 Formatting
The drive is pre-formatted for immediate use with Windows operating systems (NTFS format). For use with Mac OS or other operating systems, you may need to reformat the drive to a compatible file system (e.g., exFAT) using your computer's disk utility. Refer to your operating system's documentation for instructions on disk formatting.
4. Operation
4.1 Data Transfer
Once connected and recognized, the Mini Station functions as a standard external hard drive. You can drag and drop files, copy and paste, or use backup software to transfer data to and from the drive.
Image 4.1: The portable HDD positioned next to a laptop, illustrating its use for data storage and backup, highlighting its USB 3.1 (Gen1) interface.
4.2 Operating System Compatibility
The BUFFALO Mini Station is compatible with a wide range of operating systems:
- Windows 10 (64/32-bit)
- Windows 8.1 (64/32-bit)
- Windows 7 (64/32-bit)
- OS X 10.10.1 or later
- Chrome OS
Image 4.2: A visual representation of the drive's broad compatibility with various operating systems, including Windows, Mac OS, and Chrome OS.
4.3 Mimamori Signal Fault Prediction Service
This device is compatible with the "Mimamori Signal" fault prediction service. This service is designed to notify you promptly if an abnormality is detected within the HDD, helping to prevent unexpected data loss. An internet connection is required for this service. For detailed information on the function and compatible operating systems, please refer to the official BUFFALO website.
Image 4.3: Illustration of the "Mimamori Signal" service, depicting an HDD abnormality being detected and a notification appearing on a laptop screen.
5. Maintenance
5.1 Care and Handling
- Avoid dropping or subjecting the drive to strong impacts.
- Keep the drive away from extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, and high humidity.
- Clean the exterior with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners.
- Ensure proper ventilation around the drive during operation.
5.2 Environmental Conditions
The operating environment (non-condensation) for this device is 5°C to 35°C (41°F to 95°F) with humidity between 20% and 80%.
Image 5.1: The compact design of the portable HDD, showing its dimensions (76mm width, 115mm length) and a surface finish designed to resist visible scratches, making it convenient for portability.
6. Troubleshooting
6.1 Drive Not Recognized
- Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to both the drive and the computer.
- Try connecting the drive to a different USB port on your computer.
- If using a USB hub, connect the drive directly to the computer or use a self-powered USB hub.
- Check your computer's Disk Management (Windows) or Disk Utility (Mac) to see if the drive is detected but unformatted or requires a drive letter assignment.
6.2 Slow Data Transfer
- Ensure you are connected to a USB 3.0 or USB 3.1 (Gen1) port on your computer for optimal speeds. USB 2.0 ports will result in slower transfer rates.
- Avoid running multiple demanding applications during large data transfers.
6.3 Drive Disconnects Randomly
- This may indicate insufficient power. Refer to section 3.2 for power-related troubleshooting.
- Ensure the USB cable is not damaged.
7. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | HD-PCFS2.0U3-BBA |
| Capacity | 2TB (2000 GB Mechanical Hard Disk) |
| Interface | USB 3.1 (Gen1) / USB 3.0 / USB 2.0 |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 115 x 76 x 14 mm (4.53 x 2.99 x 0.55 inches) |
| Weight | Approx. 175 g (6.9 oz) |
| Power Source | USB Bus Power |
| Operating System Compatibility | Windows 10/8.1/7, OS X 10.10.1+, Chrome OS |
| Operating Environment (non-condensation) | Temperature: 5-35°C, Humidity: 20-80% |
| Color | Black |
8. Warranty and Support
8.1 Product Warranty
The BUFFALO Mini Station HD-PCFS2.0U3-BBA comes with a 1-year limited warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers manufacturing defects. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims. The warranty does not cover damage caused by misuse, accidents, unauthorized modifications, or external factors.
8.2 Data Recovery Service
BUFFALO offers a data recovery service for situations involving important data loss. This service is available for a fee. It is recommended to consider this service before giving up on lost data. Please visit the official BUFFALO website for more details on eligibility and procedures.
Image 8.1: An image promoting BUFFALO's Data Recovery Service, emphasizing its availability for recovering important lost data.
8.3 Customer Support
For technical assistance, warranty inquiries, or further information, please visit the official BUFFALO support website or contact their customer service. BUFFALO is committed to providing reliable support, as evidenced by its recognition in support portals.
Image 8.2: A graphic highlighting BUFFALO's consistent achievement of the No.1 domestic market share for 15 consecutive years and its recognition with a '3 Stars Support Portal' award from HDI-Japan in 2022, indicating strong customer support.
