Introduction
The Mustpoint Dual NVMe PCIe Adapter is designed to expand your system's storage capabilities by allowing you to connect two M.2 NVMe Solid State Drives (SSDs) to a single PCIe 4.0 x16 slot. This adapter also provides an additional PCIe x16 slot (with x8 signal) for expanding other PCIe devices, making it a versatile solution for systems requiring enhanced storage and expansion options. This manual provides detailed instructions for installation, operation, and troubleshooting.
Package Contents
Please verify that all items listed below are present in your package:
- 1x M.2 NVMe to PCI-E Adapter
- 1x Screw Driver
- 2x M2 Silver screws
- 2x standoffs
Figure 1: Contents included in the Mustpoint Dual NVMe PCIe Adapter package.
Product Features
- Dual NVMe SSD Support: Adds two M.2 NVMe SSD slots via a single PCIe 4.0 x16 interface, significantly enhancing storage capacity and speed.
- Additional PCIe Expansion: Features an extra PCIe x16 slot (with x8 signal) for connecting other PCIe devices, maximizing motherboard utility.
- Compact and Efficient Design: NVMe SSD slots are positioned on both positive and negative sides of the card, allowing for a smaller form factor.
- Individual LED Indicators: Each SSD slot has a dedicated LED indicator to show its working status, providing clear visual feedback.
- Wide M.2 NVMe SSD Compatibility: Supports M.2 PCI-e NVMe SSDs of various sizes, including 22x30mm, 22x42mm, 22x60mm, 22x80mm, and 22x110mm.
Figure 2: Front and back views of the adapter, highlighting its dual-sided design.
Figure 3: Detailed diagram of the adapter, showing key components and dimensions for various M.2 SSD sizes.
Specifications
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | Dual NVMe PCIe Adapter |
| Hardware Interface | PCI Express 4.0 |
| Compatible Devices | M.2 NVMe SSD (M Key), Other PCIe Device (x16 slot with x8 signal) |
| Supported M.2 SSD Sizes | 22x30mm, 22x42mm, 22x60mm, 22x80mm, 22x110mm |
| Operating System Compatibility | Windows 10 (for soft RAID) |
| Dimensions (Approx.) | 150mm x 38mm (0.01 x 0.01 x 0.01 inches as per package dimensions) |
| Item Weight | 0.16 ounces |
Figure 4: Approximate dimensions of the adapter card.
Setup and Installation
Proper installation is crucial for the optimal performance of your Mustpoint Dual NVMe PCIe Adapter. Please follow these steps carefully.
1. Hardware Requirements
- Available PCIe Slot: Your motherboard must have an available PCI-e 4.0 or 3.0 x16 slot.
- PCIe Bifurcation Support: The motherboard must support PCIe x16 Bifurcation and be configurable to "PCI-e x8x4x4" in the BIOS/UEFI settings. This is essential for both NVMe SSDs to be recognized. Common motherboards supporting this feature include most server boards, X299, and X399 chipsets.
- NVMe SSDs: All SSDs used with this adapter must be M.2 PCI-e (M Key) NVMe SSDs. SATA-based M.2 (B+M Key) SSDs are NOT supported.
- CPU Channels: Ensure your CPU has sufficient PCIe lanes to support the adapter and connected devices.
2. Motherboard BIOS Configuration
Before installing the adapter, access your motherboard's BIOS/UEFI settings and enable PCIe Bifurcation for the slot where you intend to install the adapter. Look for settings related to "PCIe Slot Configuration," "PCIe Bifurcation," or similar, and set the x16 slot to "x8x4x4" mode. Refer to your motherboard's manual for specific instructions.
3. Installing M.2 NVMe SSDs onto the Adapter
- Identify the M.2 slots on both sides of the adapter.
- Carefully insert your M.2 NVMe SSD into the M.2 slot, ensuring the notch on the SSD aligns with the key in the slot. The SSD should slide in at a slight angle.
- Gently push down the SSD until it is flat against the adapter. Secure it with the provided M2 screw and standoff. Repeat for the second SSD if applicable.
Figure 5: Supported M.2 NVMe SSD sizes for installation.
Figure 6: Example of M.2 NVMe SSD installation on the top side of the adapter.
Figure 7: Example of M.2 NVMe SSD installation on the bottom side of the adapter.
4. Installing the Adapter into the Motherboard
- Power off your computer and disconnect all cables.
- Open your computer case.
- Locate an available PCIe 4.0 or 3.0 x16 slot on your motherboard.
- Carefully align the adapter with the PCIe slot and press down firmly until it is fully seated. Ensure the retention clip (if present) clicks into place.
- Secure the adapter to the case with a screw if your case provides a mounting point.
- Close your computer case, reconnect all cables, and power on the system.
Figure 8: Adapter installed in a typical PC setup.
Operating Notes
- RAID Configuration: This 2-Port NVMe PCIe Adapter does not support hardware RAID. However, you can configure a software RAID (e.g., RAID 0, RAID 1) using Windows 10's built-in Disk Management tools or third-party software. For optimal performance and compatibility in a software RAID setup, it is recommended that both SSDs are of the same model and capacity.
- LED Indicators: The adapter features individual LED indicators for each NVMe SSD slot. These LEDs will illuminate to indicate the working status of the installed SSDs. Refer to your operating system's disk management utility to confirm SSD detection and status.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Mustpoint Dual NVMe PCIe Adapter, please refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:
- SSDs Not Detected:
- Ensure PCIe Bifurcation is correctly enabled in your motherboard's BIOS/UEFI (set to "x8x4x4").
- Verify that the installed SSDs are M.2 NVMe (M Key) and not SATA-based M.2 (B+M Key).
- Check that the adapter is fully seated in the PCIe x16 slot.
- Confirm that the SSDs are securely installed on the adapter with the provided screws.
- Test each SSD individually if possible, or try them in another compatible system to rule out SSD issues.
- Performance Issues:
- Ensure the adapter is installed in a PCIe 4.0 or 3.0 x16 slot that is not bandwidth-limited by other devices.
- Verify that your CPU has sufficient PCIe lanes.
- Check for updated motherboard BIOS/UEFI firmware.
- System Instability/Crashes:
- Ensure all components are properly seated and secured.
- Check system temperatures to ensure adequate cooling.
- Temporarily remove other PCIe devices to isolate the issue.
Maintenance
The Mustpoint Dual NVMe PCIe Adapter requires minimal maintenance. To ensure its longevity and optimal performance:
- Keep your computer's interior clean and free of dust to prevent overheating and ensure proper airflow around the adapter.
- Ensure your system's cooling solution is adequate, especially if running high-performance NVMe SSDs.
- Avoid physical shock or excessive force when handling or installing the adapter.
Warranty and Support
For warranty information or technical support regarding your Mustpoint Dual NVMe PCIe Adapter, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or contact Mustpoint customer service directly. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
For further assistance, you may visit the official Mustpoint website or contact their support channels as listed on their product packaging or website.
