Sonnet xMac mini server to PCLe Card Expansion w/ Thunderbolt 3 Ports enclosure. One port goes to computer the other to downstream items.
- Please Note: This is an Xmac mini server Thunderbolt 2 chassis. The Thunderbolt 2 card as been removed and a brand new Thunderbolt 3 Card Installed. The unit functions just like a Thunderbolt 3 Unit. The only difference is the USB plugs are slightly different. There are three USB 3.0 plugs (two at rear one at front) and two Thunderbolt 3 Plugs at rear of unit. There is an HDMI Port and Gigabyte Ethernet plug.The unit as had all 5 fans in unit replaced with "Quite Fans". There are other accessories that could be used. These are not included but can be purchased at the Online Sonnet Store if needed. There is room for a full sized Pcle Card and a half sized card. All interior cables are included and one of the Thunderbolt 3 Cable that connects to computer. This is a 1U rack space enclosure.
Important Note: Computer Is included along with a Sonnet Tempo Dual PCIe Card with a 1 TB drive Installed. Another drive can be Installed. The Computer is a 2014 Mac mini (see photos) I have tested unit thoroughly by connecting a full sized Sonnet Fusion Card with 2 Hard Drives connected. I have also connected a UAD Pcle Quad Card and a UAD Pcle Solo Pcle card. All items worked flawlessly. There is room for another 1/2 size card that can be Installed under the Thunderbolt 3 card. I also connected an 2018 Mac Mini w/ Thunderbolt 3 connectors and all worked as expected. GarageBand And Final Cut Pro are Installed on Computer. To make the 2014 Mac Mini work a Thunderbolt 3 to Thunderbolt 2 adaptor is needed and Included along with Thunderbolt 2 cable to connect to display port. There are two Thunderbolt 3 Retaining clips and a Thunderbolt 3 Cable. The only flaw I can see with enclousure is there are peg type holders at front of unit (picture included) for the cover. One is broke off on right side. I installed foam stripping to hold cover in place properly. Please keep in mind when cover installed it will effectively mess with WIFI and Bluetooth which in turn could render the unit where it not working right. There are inexpensive Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adaptors that can fix this if needed. The Ethernet plug should not be affected. Monitor is not Included.
If you are in the market for something like this, look no further. This unit is clean and works great!!
Please do contact me if you have any questions