ASUS ROG STRIX Arion M.2 NVMe SSD External Enclosure User Manual

1. Introduction

The ASUS ROG STRIX Arion is a high-performance external enclosure designed for M.2 NVMe SSDs, offering fast data transfer speeds via USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C. Its robust aluminum alloy construction and thermal pads ensure efficient heat dissipation, maintaining optimal performance. This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your device.

2. Package Contents

Verify that all items listed below are present in your package:

• ROG Strix Arion portable Enclosure
• Pin Ejector
• USB-C to USB-C Cable
• USB-C to USB-A cable
• R Hook and Protective holder

3. Features

• USB Type-C 3.2 Gen 2: Provides data transfer speeds up to 10 Gbps.
• M.2 NVMe SSD Support: Compatible with 2230/2242/2260/2280 form factor M.2 PCIe NVMe SSDs.
• Dual Cables Included: Comes with one USB Type-C to Type-C cable and one USB Type-C to Type-A cable for broad compatibility.
• Aluminum Alloy ROG Case with Thermal Pads: Designed for aggressive heat dissipation to keep M.2 drives cool.
• ASUS Aura Sync RGB Lighting: Customizable RGB lighting effects that can synchronize with other Aura Sync enabled products.
• Screwdriver-Free Installation: Easy and quick SSD installation without the need for tools.

4. Setup Instructions

4.1. Opening the Enclosure

1. Locate the small pinhole on the side of the enclosure, near the USB-C port.
2. Insert the included pin ejector (or a similar thin tool) into the pinhole and gently press until the enclosure cover releases.
3. Carefully slide the cover off to reveal the internal M.2 slot.

4.2. Installing the M.2 NVMe SSD

1. Ensure your M.2 NVMe SSD is compatible with the enclosure (2230/2242/2260/2280 form factors, M Key/B+M Key).
2. Gently insert your M.2 NVMe SSD into the M.2 slot at an angle.
3. Push down the SSD until it is flat and align the screw hole.
4. Secure the SSD using the provided thumbscrew. Ensure the thermal pads are correctly positioned to make contact with the SSD for optimal cooling.

4.3. Closing the Enclosure

1. Align the enclosure cover with the main body.
2. Slide the cover back into place until it clicks securely.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1. Connecting to a Device

1. Use the provided USB-C to USB-C cable or USB-C to USB-A cable to connect the enclosure to your computer or compatible device.
2. Ensure the connection is secure for optimal performance.

5.2. Initializing and Formatting the SSD

For a new M.2 NVMe SSD, it must be initialized and formatted before use. The process varies slightly depending on your operating system (Windows or macOS).

1. Connect the enclosure to your computer.
2. For Windows: Open Disk Management, find the unallocated drive, initialize it (GPT partition style recommended), and then create a new simple volume with your preferred file system (e.g., NTFS for Windows, exFAT for cross-platform compatibility).
3. For macOS: Open Disk Utility, select the external drive, and click 'Erase'. Choose a format (e.g., APFS for macOS, exFAT for cross-platform compatibility) and a scheme (GUID Partition Map).

5.3. ASUS Aura Sync RGB Lighting

The enclosure features customizable RGB lighting. Connect the device to an Aura Sync compatible system to personalize lighting effects through the ASUS Aura Sync software.

6. Maintenance

• Keep the enclosure clean and free from dust. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning.
• Avoid exposing the device to extreme temperatures or humidity.
• Do not attempt to disassemble the enclosure beyond the SSD installation process, as this may void the warranty.

7. Troubleshooting

• Device not recognized: Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to both the enclosure and your computer. Try a different USB port or cable. Verify the SSD is correctly installed inside the enclosure.
• Slow transfer speeds: Ensure you are using a USB 3.2 Gen 2 compatible port and cable. The performance of the M.2 NVMe SSD itself also affects speeds.
• Enclosure feels warm: This is normal during operation, especially during large data transfers, due to the aluminum alloy's heat dissipation properties. If it becomes excessively hot, ensure proper ventilation.
• RGB lighting not working: Ensure the enclosure is properly connected. If using Aura Sync, verify the software is installed and configured correctly.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official ASUS website or contact ASUS customer service. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.