Lexar NM790 4TB M.2 2280 PCIe Gen4x4 NVMe SSD Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the Lexar NM790 4TB M.2 2280 PCIe Gen4x4 NVMe Solid State Drive. It covers installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your device. The Lexar NM790 SSD is designed for high-performance computing, offering exceptional read and write speeds for demanding applications, gaming, and professional content creation.

Image 1.1: Lexar NM790 SSD highlighting its read speed of up to 7400MB/s and write speed of up to 6500MB/s.

2. Safety Information

Please read and follow these safety guidelines to prevent damage to the SSD and ensure safe operation:

• Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Prevention: Always handle the SSD by its edges. Wear an anti-static wrist strap or touch a grounded metal object before handling to discharge static electricity.
• Physical Handling: Avoid dropping or subjecting the SSD to physical shock. Do not bend or apply excessive force to the drive.
• Power Off: Ensure your computer or console is completely powered off and disconnected from the power source before installation or removal.
• Environmental Conditions: Store and operate the SSD within the specified temperature and humidity ranges. Avoid extreme temperatures and direct sunlight.
• Data Backup: Regularly back up your data. Lexar is not responsible for any data loss.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in the package:

• Lexar NM790 M.2 2280 PCIe Gen4x4 NVMe SSD

Note: Additional accessories such as mounting screws or heatsinks may not be included and might need to be purchased separately depending on your system requirements.

4. Installation Guide

4.1. PC/Laptop Installation

1. Prepare Your System: Power off your computer and disconnect all cables. Open the computer case or laptop back panel.
2. Locate M.2 Slot: Identify an available M.2 slot on your motherboard. It is typically labeled 'M.2' or 'NVMe'.
3. Insert SSD: Gently insert the Lexar NM790 SSD into the M.2 slot at a 30-degree angle. Push it in until it is fully seated.
4. Secure SSD: Press the SSD down and secure it with the provided screw (if applicable) or motherboard's retention mechanism.
5. Close System: Reassemble your computer or laptop.
6. BIOS/UEFI Configuration: Power on your computer and enter the BIOS/UEFI settings. Ensure the M.2 slot is enabled and configured correctly (e.g., NVMe mode).
7. Initialize and Format: In your operating system, open Disk Management (Windows) or Disk Utility (macOS). Initialize the new SSD and create a new partition, then format it.

Image 4.1: The Lexar NM790 SSD correctly installed into a motherboard's M.2 slot.

4.2. PlayStation 5 (PS5) Installation

The Lexar NM790 SSD is compatible with PlayStation 5. A heatsink is required for PS5 installation (sold separately).

1. Prepare PS5: Power off your PS5 completely and disconnect all cables. Place it on a soft cloth.
2. Remove Cover: Carefully remove the PS5 console cover.
3. Locate Expansion Slot: Identify the expansion slot cover, usually near the fan. Unscrew and remove it.
4. Install Heatsink: Attach a compatible M.2 heatsink to your Lexar NM790 SSD according to the heatsink manufacturer's instructions.
5. Insert SSD: Insert the SSD with the heatsink into the expansion slot. Ensure it clicks into place.
6. Secure SSD: Secure the SSD with the screw and spacer provided in the PS5 expansion slot.
7. Reassemble: Replace the expansion slot cover and the PS5 console cover. Reconnect all cables.
8. Format SSD: Power on your PS5. The system will prompt you to format the new M.2 SSD. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Image 4.2: The Lexar NM790 SSD shown in context with a PlayStation 5, indicating compatibility.

5. Operation

The Lexar NM790 SSD is designed for high-speed data access and storage. Once installed and formatted, it functions like any other storage drive in your system.

5.1. Key Features and Performance

• Exceptional Performance: Achieve sequential read speeds up to 7400 MB/s and sequential write speeds up to 6500 MB/s.
• Power Efficiency: Consumes up to 40% less power compared to DRAM cache-enabled PCIe Gen 4 SSDs, contributing to longer battery life in laptops and cooler operation.
• Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0: Utilizes your device's DRAM for smoother data transfer and consistent performance without interruptions.
• Dynamic SLC Caching: Enhances write performance by dynamically allocating a portion of the NAND flash memory as Single-Level Cell (SLC) cache.
• Designed For: Ideal for hardcore gamers, professionals, and content creators who require fast loading times, quick file transfers, and seamless multitasking.

Image 5.1: Features of the Lexar NM790 SSD, including HMB 3.0 and Dynamic SLC Caching.

Image 5.2: The Lexar NM790 SSD's power efficiency, consuming up to 40% less power.

Image 5.3: The Lexar NM790 SSD is suitable for professional creators and gamers.

6. Maintenance

To maintain the performance and reliability of your Lexar NM790 SSD, consider the following:

• Firmware Updates: Periodically check the Lexar official website for firmware updates. Updating firmware can improve performance, stability, and compatibility.
• TRIM Command: Ensure the TRIM command is enabled in your operating system. TRIM helps the SSD manage data more efficiently, preventing performance degradation over time.
• Avoid Overfilling: While SSDs perform well even when nearly full, leaving some free space (e.g., 10-15%) can help maintain optimal performance.
• Temperature Management: Ensure adequate airflow within your PC case or console to prevent excessive heat buildup, especially during prolonged heavy use. For PS5, a heatsink is mandatory.
• Data Backup: Always maintain regular backups of your important data to an external storage device.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Lexar NM790 SSD, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

• SSD Not Detected:
  • Check physical connection: Ensure the SSD is correctly seated in the M.2 slot.
  • BIOS/UEFI settings: Verify that the M.2 slot is enabled and configured for NVMe.
  • Drivers: Ensure your operating system has the latest NVMe drivers installed.
  • Initialize/Format: For new SSDs, it must be initialized and formatted in Disk Management (Windows) or Disk Utility (macOS/PS5).
• Slow Performance:
  • PCIe Lane: Confirm the SSD is installed in a PCIe Gen4x4 compatible slot. Using a Gen3 slot will limit performance.
  • TRIM: Ensure TRIM is enabled in your operating system.
  • Firmware: Update SSD firmware to the latest version.
  • Temperature: Check SSD temperature. High temperatures can cause thermal throttling, reducing performance. Ensure proper cooling.
• Operating System Not Booting:
  • Boot Order: Check BIOS/UEFI boot order to ensure the SSD is set as the primary boot device.
  • OS Installation: Verify that the operating system was installed correctly on the SSD.

If problems persist, contact Lexar customer support for further assistance.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

9.1. Product Warranty

The Lexar NM790 SSD comes with a Five-year limited warranty. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

9.2. Customer Support

For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or warranty inquiries, please visit the official Lexar support website or contact their customer service. You can typically find contact information and support resources on the Lexar website:

www.lexar.com/support