1. Introduction
The Alxum Dual M.2 NVMe & Dual SATA 4-Bay SSD Enclosure Reader (Model S1114B) is a versatile external docking station designed for efficient data management. It supports simultaneous use of two M.2 NVMe PCIe 3.0 SSDs (2230/2242/2260/2280mm) and two SATA 6G drives (2.5"/3.5" HDDs/SSDs). Featuring a USB-C 10Gbps interface, UASP acceleration, and SSD TRIM command support, this device ensures high-speed data transfer and reliable performance across various operating systems including Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android. Its tool-free design and hot-swapping capability make drive installation and replacement simple and convenient.
2. What's in the Box
- Alxum Dual M.2 NVMe & Dual SATA 4-Bay SSD Enclosure Reader (Model S1114B)
- USB-C to USB-C Cable
- USB-C to USB-A Cable
- 12V 3A Power Adapter
- Product Manual
3. Setup
3.1 Component Overview
Familiarize yourself with the device's ports and indicators:
- M.2 NVMe Slots (x2): For M.2 NVMe PCIe 3.0 SSDs (2230/2242/2260/2280mm).
- SATA Ports (x2): For 2.5"/3.5" SATA HDDs/SSDs.
- USB-C 10Gbps Port: Connects to your host computer.
- 12V DC Power Input: For connecting the power adapter.
- Power Switch: To turn the device on/off.
- LED Indicators: Show power status and drive activity.
3.2 M.2 SSD Installation
- Open the M.2 NVMe slot by gently pulling the cover.
- Insert your M.2 NVMe SSD into the slot at an angle, ensuring the gold contacts align.
- Gently push down the SSD and secure it with the provided rubber plug or screw, depending on the design.
- Repeat for the second M.2 slot if installing two SSDs.
3.3 SATA Drive Installation
- Slide open the SATA drive bay cover.
- Gently insert your 2.5" or 3.5" SATA HDD/SSD into the bay, ensuring the SATA connectors align with the enclosure's internal connectors.
- Close the SATA drive bay cover until it clicks into place.
- Repeat for the second SATA slot if installing two drives.
3.4 Connecting to Host Device
- Connect the 12V DC power adapter to the enclosure's power input and then to a power outlet.
- Use the provided USB-C to USB-C cable or USB-C to USB-A cable to connect the enclosure to your computer's USB port.
- Flip the power switch on the enclosure to the 'ON' position. The power LED indicator will light up.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1 Drive Recognition
Once connected and powered on, your operating system should automatically detect the installed drives. For new drives, you may need to initialize and format them through your computer's Disk Management (Windows) or Disk Utility (macOS) before they appear in File Explorer or Finder.
4.2 Hot-Swapping
The Alxum enclosure supports hot-swapping, allowing you to insert or remove drives without powering down the device or restarting your computer. Always ensure that no data transfer is in progress before removing a drive to prevent data loss.
4.3 High-Speed Data Transfer
Leverage the USB-C 10Gbps interface for rapid data transfer. The device supports PCIe 3.0 NVMe transmission, UASP acceleration, and SSD TRIM command, optimizing performance for large files and 4K video transfers.
4.4 S.M.A.R.T. Detection
The built-in S.M.A.R.T. (Self-Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology) detection monitors the health of your drives, providing insights into temperature, bad sectors, and other critical parameters to help prevent data loss.
5. Maintenance
5.1 Cleaning
Regularly clean the exterior of the enclosure with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using liquid cleaners or solvents that could damage the device.
5.2 Dust Protection
The SATA ports are equipped with protective covers to prevent dust accumulation when not in use. Ensure these covers are in place to maintain optimal performance and longevity of the ports.
5.3 Heat Dissipation
The enclosure is designed with superior heat dissipation features, including an aluminum shell and ventilation, to keep your drives cool during operation. Ensure proper airflow around the device.
6. Troubleshooting
6.1 Drive Not Detected
- Verify all cables (USB and power) are securely connected.
- Ensure the enclosure's power switch is in the 'ON' position.
- For new drives, check your computer's Disk Management (Windows) or Disk Utility (macOS) to see if the drive needs to be initialized and formatted.
- Try connecting the enclosure to a different USB port on your computer or a different computer to rule out port issues.
- Ensure the M.2 SSD is correctly seated and secured with its rubber plug/screw.
6.2 Slow Data Transfer Speeds
- Ensure you are using a USB 10Gbps (USB 3.2 Gen 2) port on your computer for optimal performance.
- Verify that the USB cable used is rated for 10Gbps data transfer.
- The actual speed may vary depending on the drive's performance, file size, and host system configuration.
7. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | S1114B |
| Data Transfer Rate | 10 Gigabytes Per Second (USB 3.2 Gen 2) |
| Hardware Interface | USB 3.2 Gen 2 |
| Compatible Drives | Dual M.2 NVMe PCIe 3.0 SSDs (2230/2242/2260/2280mm), Dual SATA 6G (2.5"/3.5" HDDs/SSDs) |
| Max Number of Supported Devices | 4 (2 M.2, 2 SATA) |
| Compatible Operating Systems | Windows 7-11, macOS, Linux, Android |
| Item Weight | 12 ounces |
| Package Dimensions | 7.09 x 3.62 x 2.91 inches |
8. Warranty and Support
Alxum products typically come with a manufacturer's warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included in your product packaging for specific terms and conditions. For technical support, troubleshooting assistance, or any product-related inquiries, please contact Alxum customer service. You can usually find contact information on the product packaging or the official Alxum website.
