Mantiz Saturn Pro Thunderbolt 3 - User Manual

The Mantiz Saturn Pro is an external desktop graphics docking station designed to enhance the graphical capabilities of compatible notebooks. It allows users to connect external AMD Radeon™ or NVIDIA® GeForce®/Quadro® graphics cards, effectively transforming a laptop into a powerful desktop gaming or workstation platform. This device is particularly useful for users who require high-performance graphics for tasks such as gaming, video editing, 3D rendering, or other graphically intensive applications, but prefer the portability of a laptop.

Function Description

The primary function of the Mantiz Saturn Pro is to provide a robust external graphics solution. It connects to a compatible notebook via a Thunderbolt™ 3 (USB-C™) cable, which supports data transfer speeds of up to 40Gbps. This high-speed connection is crucial for ensuring that the external graphics card can communicate efficiently with the laptop, minimizing latency and maximizing performance. The docking station is equipped with a PCI-Express x16 slot, designed to accommodate a single, double-width, full-length PCI-E graphics card. This allows for a wide range of powerful GPUs to be installed, offering flexibility to users based on their specific performance needs and budget.

Beyond its core graphics expansion capability, the Mantiz Saturn Pro also acts as a power hub. It features a built-in 750-watt power supply, which is more than sufficient to power high-end graphics cards. Additionally, it provides up to 100 watts of power output to the connected laptop via the Thunderbolt™ 3 cable. This means that compatible notebooks can be charged while connected to the Saturn Pro, reducing cable clutter and simplifying the setup.

The device also extends the connectivity options of the laptop. It includes multiple USB 3.0 ports, allowing users to connect peripherals such as keyboards, mice, external hard drives, or other USB devices. A LAN port is also integrated, providing a stable wired internet connection, which is often preferred for gaming and other bandwidth-intensive activities over Wi-Fi. Furthermore, an SD card slot is available for convenient media transfer. These additional ports enhance the overall utility of the docking station, making it a comprehensive expansion solution.

Usage Features

Setting up and using the Mantiz Saturn Pro involves a straightforward process. Users begin by unlocking the eGPU enclosure, which typically involves turning a locking mechanism. Once unlocked, the internal structure can be pulled open, revealing the PCI-E slot and other internal components. The next step is to remove the PCI-E cover and any locking screws, preparing the slot for the graphics card.

Installing a compatible GPU involves carefully inserting the graphics card into the PCI-E slot and then connecting the necessary 12V power cables from the internal power supply to the GPU power slots. After the GPU is securely in place, a screw is tightened to hold it firmly. The docking station also supports the installation of an SSD, which can be tightened onto a dedicated slot and connected to a SATA cable, further expanding storage options for the user.

Once all internal components are installed, the internal structure of the Mantiz eGPU is pushed back into the enclosure, and the locking screw is tightened to secure it. Finally, the device is connected to a power supply unit (PSU), and the system is turned on. The Thunderbolt 3 cable is then used to connect the Mantiz eGPU to the laptop. It is crucial to note that the Mantiz Saturn Pro eGPU will not function or activate without being connected to a Thunderbolt 3 compatible laptop. This ensures proper communication and power delivery between the devices.

The Mantiz Saturn Pro is designed for use with notebooks that support Thunderbolt 3 external graphics cards and are running Windows® 10 64-bit (or higher). It is compatible with PCI-E graphics cards, offering a wide range of choices for users. The ultimate external graphics solution provides powerful performance at the user's convenience, allowing for easy setup and teardown as needed.

Maintenance Features

Maintaining the Mantiz Saturn Pro involves adhering to several safety guidelines and best practices to ensure its longevity and safe operation. Users are advised to operate the equipment within a temperature range of 0°C (32°F) and 40°C (104°F). If the ambient temperature exceeds this range, it is recommended to unplug and turn off the device to allow it to stabilize, preventing potential overheating or damage.

The device should always be placed on a stable desktop to ensure proper ventilation and prevent any obstruction of the air vents. It is important not to block the ventilation grids or vents, as these are critical for dissipating heat generated by the internal components, especially the powerful graphics card and power supply. Installing the device according to the manufacturer's instructions helps maintain optimal airflow.

To prevent electric shock and damage, the Mantiz Saturn Pro should never be used or installed on water or wet surfaces, nor should it be exposed to rain or excessive moisture. It should also be kept away from heat sources, open flames, radiators, stoves, candles, or other heated surfaces.

Before cleaning, the device should always be unplugged. Users should avoid using spray or liquid cleaners directly on the unit. Instead, a dry cloth can be used to wipe down the exterior.

The power cord should be protected from being walked on, pinched, or damaged, particularly at the plugs, sockets, and where it exits the equipment. Users should avoid overloading wall outlets, extension cords, and plugs, as this can lead to fire or electric shock.

Foreign objects should never be inserted or pushed into any openings of the product. If any cables are damaged or wires are exposed, the product should not be used to prevent electric shock. Only the power adapter provided with the product should be used to avoid system short circuits.

The device should not be tampered with or abused, which includes dropping, shaking, crushing, excessive bending, puncturing, tearing, or inserting foreign objects. Disassembling the device will invalidate the 30-day warranty. If the device is operating abnormally and the fault cannot be resolved, users should unplug it and contact Mantiz service for support, as repairs should only be performed by qualified maintenance personnel.

In the event of thunder and lightning, or if the device will not be used for an extended period, it is advisable to unplug it from the power supply for protection. The Mantiz Saturn Pro eGPU relies on a Thunderbolt 3 connection to a laptop to function; without this connection, it will not work or activate. This ensures that the device is only active when properly connected and utilized.