ICY BOX IB-2915MSCL-C31 User Manual

1. Introduction

The ICY BOX IB-2915MSCL-C31 is a versatile docking station and cloning solution designed for both 2.5-inch/3.5-inch SATA HDDs/SSDs and M.2 NVMe/SATA SSDs. It offers high-speed data transfer via USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10 Gbps) and features a standalone offline cloning function, allowing for bit-by-bit duplication without the need for a computer. This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your device.

Figure 1: ICY BOX IB-2915MSCL-C31 Docking Station Overview

This image displays the top view of the ICY BOX IB-2915MSCL-C31 docking station, highlighting its various ports and indicators for different drive types.

2. Package Contents

Please verify that all items are present and in good condition:

• 1 x IB-2915MSCL-C31 Docking Station
• 1 x Power Supply Unit
• 1 x USB Combination Cable (USB-C to USB-C with USB-A adapter)
• 3 x M.2 Rubber Attachments
• 1 x User Manual

3. Product Features

• Tool-Free Installation: Supports 2.5-inch/3.5-inch HDD/SSD and M.2 NVMe/SATA SSDs with easy, tool-free insertion.
• Software-Free Cloning: Perform bit-by-bit cloning from 2.5-inch/3.5-inch SATA or M.2 SATA HDD/SSD to M.2 NVMe SSD, or vice versa, ideal for backups and system migration.
• High-Speed Connectivity: Features USB 3.2 Gen 2 protocol, providing data transfer speeds up to 10 Gbps via the included USB-C and USB-A compatible cable.
• Stable Design: Equipped with non-slip rubber feet to ensure stability during operation and prevent desk scratches.
• Plug & Play Docking: Functions as an external storage device when connected to a host computer, offering data transfer rates up to 10 Gbit/s.

4. Setup and Installation

4.1 Connecting to Power and Host

1. Connect the provided power supply to the DC IN port on the docking station and then to a power outlet.
2. Connect the USB combination cable to the USB-C port on the docking station.
3. Connect the other end of the USB cable (USB-C or USB-A, using the adapter if necessary) to an available USB port on your computer.

4.2 Installing 2.5-inch/3.5-inch SATA Drives

1. Ensure the docking station is powered off or disconnected from the computer if not in use.
2. Gently slide your 2.5-inch or 3.5-inch SATA HDD/SSD into the designated SATA bay until it firmly connects with the SATA connector.
3. The tool-free design ensures a secure fit.

Figure 2: Tool-Free Installation for 2.5"/3.5" Drives

This image illustrates the simple, tool-free process of inserting a 3.5-inch HDD and a 2.5-inch SSD/HDD into their respective bays on the docking station.

4.3 Installing M.2 SATA/NVMe SSDs

1. Ensure the docking station is powered off or disconnected from the computer.
2. Locate the M.2 slots on the docking station (M.2 SATA and M.2 NVMe).
3. Insert your M.2 SSD into the corresponding slot at an angle, then gently push down until it is flat.
4. Secure the M.2 SSD with one of the provided rubber attachments by placing it over the notch at the end of the SSD and pressing it into the securing hole.

Figure 3: Tool-Free Installation for M.2 SSDs

This image demonstrates the three-step process for installing an M.2 SSD into the docking station: insert at an angle, push down, and secure with the rubber attachment.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Docking Station Mode

When connected to a computer, the IB-2915MSCL-C31 functions as an external drive enclosure. Inserted drives will be recognized by your operating system as external storage. This mode supports hot-swapping of drives (ensure safe removal procedures are followed by your OS before physically removing a drive).

Figure 4: Rapid Data Transfer in Docking Mode

This image shows the docking station connected to a laptop, illustrating its use for rapid data transfer as an external storage device.

5.2 Offline Cloning Function

The docking station supports standalone cloning, meaning no computer connection is required for the cloning process. This function creates a bit-by-bit identical copy of the source drive onto the target drive.

5.2.1 Preparing for Cloning

• Source Drive: Insert the drive you wish to clone from into the designated SOURCE slot (e.g., 2.5"/3.5" SATA or M.2 SATA).
• Target Drive: Insert the drive you wish to clone to into the designated TARGET slot (M.2 NVMe).
• Important: The target drive must be equal to or larger in capacity than the source drive. All data on the target drive will be erased during the cloning process.

Figure 5: Backup Simplified - Drive Combinations

This image illustrates different drive combinations for backup and cloning, showing M.2 SATA, M.2 NVMe, 2.5-inch SATA, and 3.5-inch SATA drives in their respective source and target positions.

5.2.2 Cloning Process Steps

1. Ensure both source and target drives are correctly inserted and the device is disconnected from any computer.
2. Press and hold the 'CLONE' button for approximately 3-5 seconds until the cloning progress LEDs (25%, 50%, 75%, 100%) begin to flash.
3. Release the 'CLONE' button.
4. Press the 'CLONE' button again briefly to start the cloning process.
5. The progress LEDs will illuminate sequentially to indicate the cloning status.
6. Once all progress LEDs are solid (100%), the cloning process is complete.

5.2.3 Cloning Progress Indication

The front panel features LED indicators to show the cloning progress:

• 25%, 50%, 75%, 100%: Indicate the percentage of cloning completion.
• NVMe / SATA LEDs: Indicate the type of drive currently active.
• Power LED: Indicates device power status.

Figure 6: Cloning Progress Indication

This image highlights the LED indicators on the docking station, showing the cloning progress (0% to 100%), drive type (NVMe, SATA), and power status.

5.2.4 Bidirectional Cloning

The IB-2915MSCL-C31 supports cloning in both directions:

• From 2.5"/3.5" SATA HDD/SSD to M.2 NVMe SSD.
• From M.2 SATA SSD to M.2 NVMe SSD.

Figure 7: Bidirectional Cloning Capability

This image displays a diagram illustrating the bidirectional cloning paths supported by the device, showing data flow from M.2 SATA to M.2 NVMe, and from 2.5"/3.5" SATA to M.2 NVMe.

5.2.5 Precision Cloning

The cloning process performs a bit-by-bit duplication, ensuring an exact copy of the source drive. This is crucial for maintaining data integrity and bootability for operating system drives.

Figure 8: Precision Cloning Process

This image visually represents the precision cloning process, showing data being duplicated bit by bit from a source drive to a target M.2 NVMe SSD.

6. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the device. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosols.
• Storage: Store the device in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Handling: Handle the device and inserted drives with care to prevent damage. Avoid dropping or subjecting the device to strong impacts.

7. Troubleshooting

• Device not recognized by computer:
  • Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to both the docking station and the computer.
  • Try a different USB port on your computer.
  • Verify that the power adapter is correctly connected and the device is powered on.
  • Check Device Manager (Windows) or System Information (macOS) to see if the device is listed.
• Cloning process does not start or fails:
  • Ensure the docking station is disconnected from any computer before initiating offline cloning.
  • Verify that the source and target drives are correctly inserted into their respective slots.
  • Confirm that the target drive's capacity is equal to or larger than the source drive's capacity.
  • Ensure the 'CLONE' button is pressed and held for 3-5 seconds until LEDs flash, then pressed again briefly to start.
  • Check for any physical damage to the drives or connectors.
• Slow data transfer speeds:
  • Ensure you are connected to a USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10 Gbps) compatible port on your computer.
  • Verify the quality of the USB cable. Use the provided cable.
  • Performance can be affected by the speed of the installed drives.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

ICY BOX products are designed for reliability and performance. For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official ICY BOX website or contact your local distributor. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.

For further assistance, visit: www.icybox.de