Apricorn Aegis Secure Key 3 NXC 128GB USB 3.2 Type C Flash Drive Instruction Manual

1. Product Overview

The Apricorn Aegis Secure Key 3 NXC is a hardware-encrypted USB 3.2 Type C flash drive designed for secure data storage. It features an integrated keypad for PIN authentication, eliminating the need for software installation. This device is FIPS 140-2 Level 3 Validated, ensuring a high level of security for your data.

• FIPS 140-2 Level 3 Validated: Meets stringent security standards.
• 256-Bit AES-XTS Hardware Encryption: All data is encrypted in real-time.
• USB 3.2 with Type C Connector: Provides fast data transfer and broad compatibility.
• Integrated Keypad: For PIN authentication without software.
• Separate Admin and User Modes: Allows for flexible access control.
• Internal Battery: Powers the keypad for initial setup and authentication.

Image: The Apricorn Aegis Secure Key 3 NXC flash drive, shown with its protective cap on the left and with the cap removed, revealing the keypad and USB-C connector, on the right.

2. Setup

2.1 Initial Charging

Before first use, ensure the internal battery is charged. Connect the Aegis Secure Key to a powered USB-C port. The device will charge automatically. A full charge is recommended for optimal performance.

2.2 Setting the Administrator PIN

The first step to using your Aegis Secure Key is to set an Administrator PIN. This PIN controls all device settings and access.

1. Press the LOCK button. The LOCK and UNLOCK LEDs will blink.
2. Press the LOCK button again. The LOCK LED will glow solid red.
3. Enter a PIN of 7 to 16 digits.
4. Press the LOCK button. The LOCK LED will blink red.
5. Re-enter the same PIN.
6. Press the LOCK button. The UNLOCK LED will glow solid green, indicating the Admin PIN is set.

Note: Remember your PIN. There is no backdoor or recovery method for forgotten PINs on hardware-encrypted devices.

Image: A close-up view of the Aegis Secure Key 3 NXC's integrated keypad, showing the numbered buttons and LED indicators.

3. Operating Instructions

3.1 Unlocking the Drive

To access your data, the drive must be unlocked using the Administrator or User PIN.

1. Connect the Aegis Secure Key to a USB-C port on your computer or device.
2. The LOCK LED will glow solid red.
3. Enter your Administrator or User PIN.
4. Press the UNLOCK button. The UNLOCK LED will glow solid green, and the drive will be accessible.

Image: The Aegis Secure Key 3 NXC connected to the USB-C port of a laptop, ready for data access.

3.2 Transferring Data

Once unlocked, the Aegis Secure Key functions like a standard USB flash drive. You can drag and drop files, copy, paste, and delete data as needed. The drive is compatible with PC, Mac, and Linux operating systems.

3.3 Locking the Drive

To secure your data, always lock the drive when not in use.

• Manual Lock: Press the LOCK button. The LOCK LED will glow solid red, indicating the drive is locked.
• Automatic Lock: The drive will automatically lock after a period of inactivity (approximately 15 minutes) or when safely ejected from the host device.
• Power Off: Disconnecting the drive from the USB port will also automatically lock it.

Important: Always safely eject the drive from your operating system before physically removing it to prevent data corruption.

4. Maintenance

4.1 Battery Care

The internal Lithium Polymer battery powers the keypad. To maintain battery health:

• Regularly connect the drive to a powered USB port to ensure the battery remains charged.
• Avoid extreme temperatures, which can degrade battery performance.

4.2 Physical Care

• Keep the protective cap on the USB-C connector when not in use to prevent dust and damage.
• Handle the device carefully to avoid physical impact to the keypad or casing.
• Ensure the USB-C connector is properly aligned when inserting it into a port to prevent damage.

4.3 Data Backup

While the Aegis Secure Key provides robust security, it is good practice to regularly back up critical data to another secure location to prevent data loss from unforeseen circumstances.

5. Troubleshooting

• Drive Not Recognized:

  Ensure the drive is fully inserted into the USB-C port. Verify the drive is unlocked (green LED solid). Try a different USB-C port or computer. Ensure the internal battery has sufficient charge.

• "Disk Not Ejected Correctly" Warning:

  This warning may appear if the drive automatically locks due to inactivity or is physically removed without safe ejection. While generally harmless for this device, always attempt to safely eject the drive from your operating system before removal to prevent potential data issues.
• Keypad Unresponsive or Partially Working:

  Ensure the battery is charged. If issues persist, contact Apricorn support. Hardware keypad failures can prevent access to data.

• Frequent Disconnections:

  Check the USB-C cable and port for damage. Ensure the drive is firmly connected. If using a hub, try connecting directly to the computer. Ensure the drive's internal battery is adequately charged.

• Forgotten PIN:

  Due to the hardware encryption, there is no PIN recovery mechanism. If the Administrator PIN is forgotten, the drive will need to be reset, which will erase all data. User PINs can be reset by the Administrator.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty and Support

7.1 Warranty Information

For detailed warranty information regarding your Apricorn Aegis Secure Key 3 NXC, please refer to the official Apricorn website or the warranty card included with your product. Warranty terms and conditions may vary by region and purchase date.

7.2 Technical Support

Should you encounter any issues not covered in this manual or require further assistance, please visit the official Apricorn support website for FAQs, drivers, firmware updates, and contact information for technical support.

Official Apricorn Website: www.apricorn.com

8. Media Resources

No official product videos were available for embedding in this manual.