addlink S93 - User Manual

addlink S93
Gen4x4 Laptop SSD
Installation Guide

Summary

Introduction

Important Notice

Warranty Precautions

Ensure laptop's warranty won't be voided by opening or making modifications.

Seek Professional Assistance

Seek expert help if uncertain about the installation process.

Handle Static Electricity

Discharge static by touching a grounded metal object before handling the SSD.

Work in Safe Environment

Do not use in wet environments; work in a static-safe environment.

Proper SSD Handling

Hold SSD by edges, avoid touching connectors or components.

Backup Crucial Data

Backup all crucial data before starting the installation.

Verify SSD Compatibility

Ensure your laptop supports M.2 NVMe 2280 SSDs.

Prepare Bootable OS

Prepare a bootable USB with desired OS if SSD is primary drive.

Do Not Tamper with Label

Do not remove or tamper with the SSD's label or sticker.

Preparation

Secure Your Data

Secure your data by creating backups.

Required Installation Tools

List of tools required for installation: screwdriver, SSD, manual, adapter.

SSD Installation

Power Off Laptop

Ensure the laptop is completely off and unplugged before proceeding.

Detach Laptop Battery

Disconnect the laptop battery if it is possible to do so.

Ground Yourself

Use an anti-static wristband or touch grounded metal periodically.

Open Laptop Case

Carefully open the laptop's back panel to access internal components.

Organize Screws

Keep screws organized by size and type to avoid confusion during reassembly.

Align SSD to Slot

Locate the M.2 slot and align the SSD with its notch for insertion.

Insert SSD Correctly

Insert the SSD at a 30-degree angle and then press it down gently.

Secure SSD with Screw

Fasten the SSD in place using the motherboard's screw.

Reassemble Laptop

Reattach the laptop's back panel and the battery.

Verify SSD Detection

Turn on the laptop and verify if the SSD is detected correctly.

Initializing the SSD

Access Disk Management Tool

Open 'Disk Management' if the SSD does not appear in 'My Computer' or 'This PC'.

Initialize Disk Partition

List the SSD as 'Unallocated', right-click, and select 'Initialize Disk'.

Choose Partition Style (MBR;GPT)

Select MBR or GPT based on preference and SSD size.

Create and Format New Volume

Create a new volume and format the SSD for use.

Single Storage Slot Laptops

Backup and Prepare OS

Backup data externally and prepare a bootable OS USB.

Replace Primary Drive

Refer to the 'SSD Installation' section for replacing the primary drive.

Configure Boot Order

Access BIOS/UEFI and set USB as the primary boot device.

Install Operating System

Follow prompts and select the SSD as the installation destination.

Post-Install SSD Initialization

The SSD may require initialization after the OS installation.

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Important Technical Specifications
3. Usage Features
4. Maintenance Features

The addlink S93 Gen4x4 Laptop SSD is a high-performance storage solution designed for Intel and AMD laptops, offering an upgrade path for users seeking faster boot times and responsive applications. This installation guide provides comprehensive instructions for setting up and initializing the SSD, whether it's for secondary storage or as a primary drive in single-slot laptop configurations.

Function Description:

The addlink S93 is a solid-state drive (SSD) designed to replace or augment existing storage in compatible laptops. It leverages the PCIe Gen4x4 interface, which provides significantly higher data transfer speeds compared to older SATA or PCIe Gen3 interfaces. This makes it ideal for demanding tasks such as gaming, video editing, and running multiple applications simultaneously. The SSD's primary function is to store the operating system, applications, and user data, offering quicker access times and improved overall system responsiveness. Its ultra-slim 2.25mm profile ensures compatibility with a wide range of modern laptops, where space is often at a premium.

Important Technical Specifications:

• Model: addlink S93 Gen4x4 Laptop SSD
• Form Factor: M.2 2280
• Interface: PCIe Gen4x4 NVMe
• Profile: Ultra-slim 2.25mm
• Compatibility: Designed for Intel and AMD laptops that support M.2 NVMe 2280 SSDs.
• Capacities: Available in 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB.
• Warranty: Comes with addlink's five-year warranty.

Usage Features:

• Enhanced Performance: The Gen4x4 interface delivers superior read and write speeds, significantly reducing boot times and application loading times. This translates to a smoother and more efficient user experience.
• Power Efficiency: The ultra-slim profile and design contribute to better power efficiency, which can help extend laptop battery life, a crucial factor for mobile users.
• Versatile Storage Solution: The addlink S93 can be used as a secondary storage drive to expand a laptop's capacity or as a primary boot drive for a complete performance overhaul.
• Easy Installation (with precautions): The guide outlines a straightforward installation process, though it emphasizes the importance of following safety guidelines and consulting professional assistance if needed.
• Compatibility with Modern Laptops: Specifically designed for laptops supporting the M.2 NVMe 2280 standard, ensuring broad compatibility with contemporary Intel and AMD systems.
• Multiple Capacity Options: With 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB options, users can choose the capacity that best suits their storage needs, from casual use to extensive data storage.
• Bootable Drive Capability: When used as a primary drive, the SSD can host the operating system, enabling faster system startup and overall operation. The guide provides steps for preparing a bootable USB and installing the OS.
• Disk Management Integration: For secondary storage, the SSD can be easily initialized and formatted using standard operating system disk management tools, allowing users to create new volumes and manage partitions.

Maintenance Features:

• Warranty Protection: The five-year warranty provided by addlink offers peace of mind, covering potential defects and ensuring long-term reliability. However, users are cautioned against removing or tampering with the SSD's label or sticker, as this may void the warranty.
• Data Backup Recommendation: Prior to installation, the guide strongly recommends backing up all crucial data. This is a critical maintenance practice to prevent data loss during hardware upgrades or system reconfigurations.
• Static Electricity Precautions: Users are advised to discharge static electricity by touching a grounded metal object before handling the SSD. This protects the sensitive electronic components from potential damage, contributing to the longevity of the device.
• Proper Handling Guidelines: The guide emphasizes holding the SSD by its edges and avoiding contact with connectors or components. This prevents physical damage and ensures proper functionality.
• Environmental Considerations: The product should not be used in wet environments, and installation should occur in a static-safe environment. Adhering to these environmental guidelines helps maintain the SSD's integrity and performance over time.
• Organized Reassembly: For installation, users are advised to organize screws by size and type to avoid confusion during reassembly, which is a good practice for maintaining the laptop's structural integrity and ensuring all components are properly secured.
• BIOS/UEFI Configuration: For single-slot laptops where the SSD becomes the primary drive, users will need to access the BIOS/UEFI to set the USB as the primary boot device for OS installation. This is a standard procedure for system maintenance and upgrades.
• Disk Initialization: After physical installation, especially when used as secondary storage or after OS installation, the SSD may require initialization through the operating system's Disk Management utility. This prepares the drive for use by creating partitions and formatting them.

addlink S93 Specifications

General

Brand	addlink
Model	S93
Category	Storage
Language	English