Tag: M.2 SSD

  • Satechi SSD Enclosure Expands Mac Mini Storage to 8TB

    Satechi SSD Enclosure Expands Mac Mini Storage to 8TB

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sleek Design: The Satechi USB4 Slim NVMe SSD Enclosure is only 0.63 inches thick and matches the dimensions of the Mac Mini, allowing for easy placement without taking up extra space.

    2. Convenient Storage: The short USB-C cable can be stored inside the enclosure, enhancing portability, and it is compatible with both Macs and Windows computers.

    3. High Storage Capacity: Supports NVMe SSDs up to 8TB, offering a cost-effective alternative to Apple’s internal storage options.

    4. Fast Speeds: The enclosure can achieve data transfer speeds of up to 3,100 MB/s.

    5. Affordable Pricing: Priced at $119, the enclosure requires a separately purchased compatible SSD, making it a budget-friendly option for storage expansion.

    While numerous docking stations for the Apple Mac Mini come with an M.2 SSD slot, the new USB4 Slim NVMe SSD Enclosure from Satechi prioritizes a sleek design over extra connectivity features. This accessory measures just 0.63 inches in thickness and matches the dimensions of the current Apple Mac Mini, measuring 5 inches in both length and width.

    Convenient Design

    This SSD enclosure can easily be placed on top of or beneath the Mac Mini, ensuring it doesn’t occupy any extra space on your desk. The short USB-C cable can be conveniently stored inside the enclosure, which enhances its portability. Since it connects through USB-C, this storage expansion device is also compatible with other Macs and even Windows computers. However, it’s important to note that a compatible SSD isn’t included with the purchase. The enclosure works with standard heatsink-less NVMe SSDs in the M.2 2280 format.

    Storage Capacity

    It supports SSDs with capacities up to 8TB, which can help users save a significant amount of money. For instance, Apple charges an extra $800 for an additional 2TB of internal SSD storage for the Mac Mini. By comparison, an 8TB WD Black M.2 SSD is currently priced at $609 on Amazon, while 2TB SSDs can be purchased for around $115 on Amazon. Satechi claims that this enclosure can achieve speeds of up to 3,100 MB/s.

    The Satechi USB4 Slim NVMe SSD Enclosure for the Apple Mac Mini is available for order at a price of $119. The company has not shared information about a worldwide launch, but Satechi products typically reach other markets within a few weeks following their release in the US. As previously mentioned, a compatible SSD for storage expansion needs to be bought separately.

    Conclusion

    Satechi’s new product exemplifies a balance between design and functionality, making it a practical choice for users who want to expand their Mac Mini’s storage without compromising on space.

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    Satechi SSD Enclosure Expands Mac Mini Storage to 8TBSatechi SSD Enclosure Expands Mac Mini Storage to 8TBSatechi SSD Enclosure Expands Mac Mini Storage to 8TB

     

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 microSD Express to M.2 2230 SSD Adapter News

    Nintendo Switch 2 microSD Express to M.2 2230 SSD Adapter News

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch 2 lacks expandable M.2 SSD storage, relying solely on a built-in microSD Express slot.
    2. NVNTLabs is developing a converter to turn microSD Express cards into M.2 2230 SSDs, but the project is still in early stages.
    3. Early attempts to use the adapter have encountered errors, indicating that the project requires further development.
    4. If successful, the converter could provide more economical and faster storage options for the Nintendo Switch 2.
    5. Updates on the project can be followed on GitHub and Bilibili, with additional information available on X at @NVNT_R.

    Unlike many portable gaming devices available today, such as the Steam Deck and Asus ROG Ally, the Nintendo Switch 2 does not come with the option for expandable M.2 SSD storage. Instead, users are limited to the built-in microSD Express slot, which requires a compatible card to use.

    Modding for Expansion

    A creative modder is working on a solution to this limitation using a combination of hardware and software tricks. The group known as NVNTLabs on GitHub has begun developing a converter that could turn a microSD Express card into an M.2 2230 SSD. Theoretically, this is achievable since the microSD Express can be adapted to an SD Express PCIe Gen3 x1 interface. However, this project is still in its infancy and may take a while to finalize.

    Early Attempts and Challenges

    One user on Bilibili tried to use the adapter with their newly purchased Nintendo Switch 2 but encountered an error message (2016-0641). According to Nintendo’s support site, this error code indicates a problem with the SD card, highlighting that the project is still a work in progress.

    If this project is successful, it could enable a simple dongle that offers improved storage options for the Nintendo Switch 2. As it stands, a 256 GB microSD Express card is priced at around $56 (~4.5 GB per dollar) on Amazon. In contrast, a 1 TB WD Black M.2 2230 NVMe SSD can be purchased for $99 (~10.10 GB per dollar), making it a more economical choice. Additionally, utilizing the PCIe Gen 3 interface could lead to shorter loading times.

    Stay Tuned for Updates

    Keep an eye on NVNTLabs over on GitHub and follow their progress. Also, check out Bilibili for more user experiences and updates on this intriguing development. You can also follow them on X at @NVNT_R.

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    Nintendo Switch 2 microSD Express to M.2 2230 SSD Adapter NewsNintendo Switch 2 microSD Express to M.2 2230 SSD Adapter News

     

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  • Beelink Launches ME Mini PC Series for NAS Market

    Beelink Launches ME Mini PC Series for NAS Market

    Key Takeaways

    1. Beelink is entering the NAS market with the new ME series, starting with the ME mini NAS system.
    2. The ME mini features a compact design, measuring 99×99.2×98.3 mm, and includes an integrated power supply for easy setup.
    3. It offers six M.2 slots for SSDs, allowing a maximum storage capacity of 24 TB.
    4. The NAS will use an x86 CPU and includes two 2.5 GbE LAN ports along with an efficient cooling system.
    5. No pricing or release date has been announced, and additional Pro and Max models are mentioned without further details.

    Beelink has revealed a new product series called the ME series. This signifies the company’s foray into the NAS market, and the ME mini is set to be one of the initial NAS systems launched within this new mini PC range. Not much information has been provided regarding this first product in the series.

    Compact Design

    In their official announcement, Beelink highlighted that the ME mini will have a compact size, measuring 99×99.2×98.3 mm. Despite its small dimensions, this NAS system will come equipped with an integrated power supply, allowing users to power the device using just a single cable.

    Storage Capacity

    Naturally, the petite size means the ME mini won’t accommodate a 3.5-inch drive, which is common in many NAS systems. Nevertheless, it features six M.2 slots, each capable of housing a 4 TB SSD (currently, a 2 TB Samsung 990 EVO Plus costs $129.99 on Amazon). This configuration allows the system to offer a maximum storage capacity of 24 TB.

    The exact processor that will be used in the NAS hasn’t been disclosed, but Beelink confirmed it will be an x86 CPU. Furthermore, the announcement included information about two 2.5 GbE LAN ports and an efficient cooling system designed to maintain optimal temperatures for the internal storage drives.

    Pricing and Availability

    There is currently no information regarding the pricing, and Beelink has not revealed when the ME mini will be released. The announcement also refers to a Pro and Max model, but it does not provide further details about these variants.

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    Beelink Launches ME Mini PC Series for NAS Market

     

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