OWC Express 1M2 40Gb/s Portable NVMe SSD Instruction Manual

1. Overview

The OWC Express 1M2 is an ultra-fast, ultra-compatible, and ultra-reliable portable NVMe SSD solution designed for high-performance data transfer and storage. It features a patent-pending heat-dissipating aluminum enclosure that ensures consistent top speeds without thermal throttling. This bus-powered, palm-sized drive is ideal for professionals and enthusiasts requiring robust and flexible storage on the go.

• Ultra-fast: Achieves over 2x faster performance than Thunderbolt portable enclosures, with up to 3151MB/s real-world speeds.
• Ultra-compatible: Works seamlessly with USB4, Thunderbolt, and USB-C computers and devices.
• Ultra-reliable & Innovative: Features a patent-pending heat-dissipating design for rugged protection and silent, consistent performance.
• Flexible DIY: Supports your choice of NVMe M.2 2280, 2242, or 2230 SSDs.
• Portable: Bus-powered and palm-sized for convenient use anywhere.

Image: The OWC Express 1M2 highlighting its speed, faster than Thunderbolt with up to 3151MB/s.

Image: The OWC Express 1M2 emphasizing its universal compatibility with USB4, Thunderbolt, and USB-C devices.

2. Setup and Drive Installation

The OWC Express 1M2 is designed for easy user installation of an NVMe M.2 SSD. Follow these steps to install your drive:

1. Locate the two Phillips screws on the back of the enclosure.
2. Remove these screws using the provided screwdriver.
3. Gently slide the top cover off the enclosure to reveal the internal board.
4. Carefully insert your NVMe M.2 2280, 2242, or 2230 SSD into the M.2 slot on the board.
5. Secure the SSD with the retaining screw.
6. Ensure the thermal pad is correctly positioned to make contact with the SSD for optimal heat dissipation.
7. Slide the top cover back onto the enclosure and re-insert the two Phillips screws to secure it.
8. Attach the adhesive rubber feet over the screws for a clean finish and added stability.

Image: The OWC Express 1M2 disassembled, illustrating the internal layout for SSD installation and the included screwdriver.

3. Operating Instructions

Once your NVMe SSD is securely installed, connect the OWC Express 1M2 to your computer or device using the included 40Gb/s USB-C cable. The drive is bus-powered, meaning it draws power directly from your connected device, eliminating the need for an external power adapter.

• Connection: Use the provided USB-C cable to connect the Express 1M2 to a compatible USB4, Thunderbolt, or USB-C port on your computer.
• Compatibility: The drive is compatible with Mac (Apple Silicon M1/M2/M3/M4 & iPad) and PC (Windows machines with USB4, Thunderbolt 3 or higher).
• Data Transfer: The drive will appear as an external storage device. You can drag and drop files, use it for video editing, photo storage, general data backup, or as a scratch disk for demanding applications.
• Performance: Expect real-world speeds of up to 3151MB/s when connected to USB4 (40Gb/s) ports. Speeds may vary based on the host system and specific NVMe SSD used.

Image: The OWC Express 1M2 connected to a laptop, demonstrating its portable and bus-powered operation.

Image: The OWC Express 1M2 showcasing its versatility for video, photo, audio, general storage, and backup tasks.

4. Maintenance

The OWC Express 1M2 is designed for durability and consistent performance. Minimal maintenance is required:

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the aluminum enclosure. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Heat Management: The aluminum heat sink enclosure is designed to dissipate heat passively. Ensure adequate airflow around the device, especially during prolonged heavy use, to maintain optimal operating temperatures.
• Storage: When not in use, store the drive in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

Image: The OWC Express 1M2 highlighting its rugged and cool design, with a patent-pending heat-dissipating enclosure to protect the SSD.

5. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your OWC Express 1M2, consider the following:

• Drive Not Detected:
  • Ensure the USB-C cable is securely connected to both the Express 1M2 and your computer.
  • Try connecting to a different USB4/Thunderbolt/USB-C port on your computer.
  • Test with a different compatible USB-C cable.
  • Verify that the NVMe SSD is correctly installed inside the enclosure.
  • Check your computer's Disk Management (Windows) or Disk Utility (Mac) to see if the drive is recognized but unformatted.
• Slow Performance:
  • Ensure you are connected to a USB4 or Thunderbolt 3/4 port for maximum speeds. Older USB standards will result in lower speeds.
  • Close any unnecessary applications that might be consuming system resources.
  • Ensure the drive is not overheating. While designed for heat dissipation, extreme ambient temperatures or blocked airflow can affect performance.
  • Check the health of your NVMe SSD using appropriate software.
• Intermittent Disconnections:
  • Ensure the cable connection is stable and not loose.
  • Try a different USB-C cable, as faulty cables can cause disconnections.
  • Update your computer's USB/Thunderbolt drivers.

6. Specifications

7. What's in the Box

• OWC Express 1M2 Enclosure
• 40Gb/s USB-C cable
• Screwdriver (for enclosure assembly)
• Assembly Manual and User Guide

8. Warranty and Support

The OWC Express 1M2 enclosure comes with a 2-Year OWC Limited Warranty. For complete solution (enclosure + OWC SSD), a 3-Year OWC Limited Warranty applies. For technical support, product registration, and additional resources, please visit the official OWC website or contact their customer service.

For further assistance, please refer to the official OWC support channels.