Sonnet Echo Express SE1 - Thunderbolt 3

The Sonnet Echo Express SE1 is a Thunderbolt 3 to PCIe expansion chassis designed to enable the us...

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Wex Photo VideoSonnet Echo Express SE I - Thunderbolt 3 to PCIe Expansion Chassis - Black
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Product Information

Full details

The Sonnet Echo Express SE I is a compact Thunderbolt 3 to PCIe expansion chassis designed for creative professionals and users needing to add specialized PCIe cards to Thunderbolt 3-equipped computers lacking internal expansion slots. Its key benefit is enabling high-performance PCIe cards, such as video capture or high-speed networking cards, to function seamlessly with modern, slim computers. A minor caveat is its single-card capacity, requiring careful selection of the most critical expansion need.

All features

ColourBlack
Model Part NumberECHO-EXP-SE1-T3
BrandSonnet

Extended Product Information

FAQs

What is the maximum length of a PCIe card that can be installed?

The Sonnet Echo Express SE I supports PCIe cards up to 7.75 inches (19.7 cm) in length.

Can I install two PCIe cards in this chassis?

No, the Echo Express SE I is designed to accommodate only one PCIe card.

Does this chassis require its own power supply?

Yes, the Echo Express SE I includes an external AC power adapter and requires it to be connected to a power outlet.

How many displays can I connect?

You can connect up to two 4K displays at 60Hz or one 5K display at 60Hz through the Thunderbolt 3 ports.

Will this work with older Thunderbolt ports (e.g., Thunderbolt 2)?

No, the Echo Express SE I specifically requires Thunderbolt 3 ports for its operation and full bandwidth.

What operating systems are supported?

It supports macOS 10.12 Sierra and later, as well as Windows 10 and later.

What is the purpose of the ThunderLok 3 clip?

The ThunderLok 3 clip is a retainer that secures the Thunderbolt 3 cable to the Echo chassis, preventing accidental disconnections that could lead to data loss.

Can I connect USB-C devices to the second Thunderbolt 3 port?

Yes, the second Thunderbolt 3 port supports USB 3.1 Gen 2 (10Gbps) devices when using the appropriate USB-C cable or adapter.

Troubleshooting

Chassis is not recognized by the computer.

Ensure the Thunderbolt 3 cable is securely connected to both the chassis and the computer. Verify that the Thunderbolt 3 drivers are up to date on your computer. Try a different Thunderbolt 3 port on your computer and ensure the ThunderLok 3 clip is not obstructing the connection. Confirm that the AC power adapter is connected and the unit has power.

PCIe card is not functioning correctly or shows errors.

Confirm the PCIe card is fully seated in the slot. Check the Sonnet PCIe Card Thunderbolt Compatibility Chart to ensure the specific card model is supported. Try reseating the card. If the card has external power requirements, ensure they are met. Test the card in another compatible enclosure or computer if possible.

Poor performance or frequent disconnects.

Ensure you are using the included 0.5-meter Thunderbolt 3 cable, as longer or lower-quality cables can degrade performance. Close unnecessary applications that might be consuming system resources. Check for macOS or Windows updates, as well as Thunderbolt controller driver updates.

Chassis fan is noisy.

The fan speed adjusts based on temperature. If the fan is constantly at high speed, it may indicate the installed PCIe card is generating excessive heat or the chassis ventilation is blocked. Ensure all vents are clear and the PCIe card is not overheating. If noise persists under normal conditions, contact support.

Cannot daisy-chain additional Thunderbolt devices.

Verify that the additional Thunderbolt devices are connected correctly using appropriate Thunderbolt 3 cables. Ensure the devices themselves are compatible with daisy-chaining and are functional. Try connecting devices one at a time to identify a potentially faulty device or cable.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Enables the use of professional PCIe cards with computers that lack internal expansion slots.
  • High 40Gbps Thunderbolt 3 interface provides ample bandwidth for demanding applications.
  • Compact design with a small footprint suitable for desktop use.
  • Supports daisy-chaining of multiple Thunderbolt devices.
  • Quiet operation suitable for noise-sensitive environments.
  • Includes essential cables and a connector retainer clip for secure connection.

Cons

  • Limited to a single PCIe card installation.
  • Requires a Thunderbolt 3 port on the host computer.
  • Does not support full-length PCIe cards.
  • External power adapter is required (included).

Setup, Compatibility & Care

Setup:

  1. Ensure your computer has a Thunderbolt 3 port.
  2. Install your chosen PCIe card into the x8 PCIe slot within the Echo Express SE I chassis. Ensure the card fits within the length, height, and width constraints, and that any daughter cards are properly seated.
  3. Connect the Echo Express SE I to your computer using the included 0.5-meter Thunderbolt 3 (40Gbps) cable. Secure the cable to the chassis using the included Sonnet ThunderLok 3 retainer clip.
  4. Connect the provided AC power adapter to the Echo Express SE I and plug it into a power outlet.
  5. Power on your computer. The Echo Express SE I will automatically power on and be recognized by your operating system.

Compatibility:

  • Host Interface: Thunderbolt 3 (40Gbps).
  • Supported PCIe Cards: One half-length+, full-height, single- or double-width PCIe card (up to 7.75 inches long). Supports PCIe 3.0, PCIe 2.0, and PCIe 1.1 cards.
  • Operating Systems: macOS 10.12 Sierra and later; Windows 10 and later.
  • Daisy-Chaining: Supports up to five additional Thunderbolt devices.
  • Displays: Supports two 4K displays @ 60Hz or one 5K display @ 60Hz.

Care:

  • Keep the chassis clean by wiping the exterior with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents.
  • Ensure the ventilation openings are clear of dust and obstructions to maintain optimal airflow and cooling.
  • Periodically check the Thunderbolt cable and ThunderLok 3 clip for any signs of damage.
  • The internal fan is temperature-controlled and does not require user maintenance. It is designed for quiet operation.

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