1. Introduction
This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your MZHOU M.2(A+E Key) to 2 Ports SATA3.0 6G Multiplier expansion card. This product is designed to expand your PC's storage capabilities by converting an M.2 (A+E Key) slot into two standard SATA 6G interfaces, allowing for the connection of additional SSDs or mechanical hard drives.
Utilizing PCIe 3.0 bandwidth, this expansion card offers significantly faster data transmission speeds compared to PCIe 2.0, ensuring high performance and reliability for your storage solutions.
2. Product Overview
The MZHOU M.2(A+E Key) to 2 Ports SATA3.0 6G Multiplier is a compact and efficient solution for expanding SATA connectivity. It features two standard SATA ports, enabling simultaneous connection of two SATA-interface SSDs or HDDs. The card is built around the JMB582 chip, known for its stable performance and high-speed data handling.
Figure 2.1: M.2(A+E Key) Connector and SATAIII Ports
The card's compact design, measuring approximately 30mm x 23mm, allows for easy integration into various systems.
Figure 2.2: Card Dimensions and PCIe 3.0 Bandwidth
3. Package Contents
Please verify that all items listed below are included in your package:
- 1 x M.2(A+E Key) to 2-port SATA Card
- 2 x SATA Cables
- 1 x M.2 Screw
Figure 3.1: Included Package Contents
4. System Requirements
The MZHOU M.2(A+E Key) to 2 Ports SATA3.0 6G Multiplier is compatible with the following operating systems:
- Windows 7 (X86 / X64)
- Windows 8 / 8.x / 10 (X86 / X64) (Windows built-in driver)
- Linux based operating system
Figure 4.1: Compatible Operating Systems
5. Setup and Installation
Follow these steps to install the MZHOU M.2 SATA expansion card into your system:
- Power Off System: Ensure your computer is completely powered off and unplugged from the power source before beginning installation.
- Open Computer Case: Carefully open your computer's case to access the motherboard.
- Locate M.2 (A+E Key) Slot: Identify an available M.2 (A+E Key) slot on your motherboard. Refer to your motherboard's manual if you are unsure of the location.
- Connect SATA Cables: It is recommended to connect the SATA data cables to the expansion card before mounting the card to the motherboard. This can prevent potential damage due to the card's flexible nature.
- Insert Expansion Card: Gently insert the M.2(A+E Key) expansion card into the M.2 slot at a slight angle. Once seated, push down the card and secure it with the provided M.2 screw.
- Connect Drives: Connect the other end of the SATA data cables to your SSDs or mechanical hard drives. Ensure your drives also have power connected from your power supply unit.
- Close Case and Power On: Close your computer case, plug in the power cord, and power on your system.
Figure 5.1: Card Installed with SATA Cables
The card is designed to be driver-free for most modern operating systems, utilizing built-in drivers for seamless integration.
6. Operating Instructions
Once installed, the MZHOU M.2 SATA expansion card will function as an extension of your motherboard's SATA capabilities. Connected drives should be detected automatically by your operating system.
- Drive Detection: After booting your system, verify that the newly connected drives are recognized in your operating system's Disk Management (Windows) or Disk Utility (Linux) tools.
- Formatting/Partitioning: If you are using new drives, you may need to initialize, format, and partition them before they can be used for storage.
- Data Transfer: You can now transfer data to and from the connected drives at high speeds, leveraging the PCIe 3.0 bandwidth.
7. Maintenance
The MZHOU M.2 SATA expansion card requires minimal maintenance. To ensure optimal performance and longevity:
- Keep Clean: Periodically inspect your computer's interior for dust accumulation, especially around expansion cards and cooling components. Use compressed air to gently remove dust.
- Handle with Care: When handling the card, avoid touching the gold contacts or electronic components directly. Always hold it by the edges.
- Secure Installation: Ensure the card remains securely fastened in its M.2 slot to prevent accidental disconnections or damage.
8. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your MZHOU M.2 SATA expansion card, consider the following troubleshooting steps:
- Card Not Detected:
- Ensure the card is fully seated in the M.2 (A+E Key) slot.
- Verify that your motherboard's M.2 slot supports A+E Key type.
- Check your motherboard's BIOS/UEFI settings to ensure the M.2 slot is enabled and configured correctly.
- Drives Not Detected:
- Confirm that the SATA data cables are securely connected to both the expansion card and the drives.
- Ensure the drives are receiving adequate power from your power supply.
- Check Disk Management (Windows) or Disk Utility (Linux) to see if the drives appear as uninitialized or unformatted.
- POST Issues / System Instability:
- Some users have reported POST issues after reboot or shutdown. Check the manufacturer's website for potential firmware updates for the JMB582 chip. Updating firmware may require temporarily disabling driver signature enforcement on Windows.
- Ensure your motherboard's BIOS is up to date.
- Drives Appear as Removable Storage:
- This is a known characteristic for some M.2 to SATA adapters and typically does not affect functionality. It can usually be ignored.
9. Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Model Number | MZHOU M 2 |
| Hardware Interface | PCI Express (M.2 A+E Key) |
| Output Ports | 2 x SATA 3.0 (6Gbps) |
| Chipset | JMB582 |
| Compatible Devices | Personal Computer |
| Item Weight | 0.01 Kilograms (0.35 ounces) |
| Package Dimensions | 4.96 x 2.83 x 1.38 inches |
10. Scope of Application
This M.2 SATA expansion card is versatile and can be widely used in various computing environments:
- PC Computers
- Servers
- Industrial Computers
- Consumer Electronic Equipment
- Storage Devices
- NVR/DVR Systems
Figure 10.1: Diverse Applications
11. Support Information
For technical support or inquiries, please contact the manufacturer:
- Manufacturer: Meizhou Technology (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd
- Address: Room1002, Shangmei Times Plaza Building No.57 LongGuang East Road, Guangdong Shenzhen 518109
- Email: qiujinz@outlook.com
For European customers, the EC/REP contact is:
- Company: Zhou's Jade Star UG
- Address: Brunnenallee11A, 14478 Potsdam, Germany
- Email: jadestar.eu@gmail.com
Figure 11.1: Product Information Label
