Newer Technology Voyager S3

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Summary

Introduction

Package Contents

Lists the items included in the Newer Technology Voyager S3 package.

Ports & Interfaces

Top View Features

Details the SATA connector, flap, eject button, and LEDs on the top of the Voyager S3.

Rear View Features

Details the power switch, DC-IN, and USB 3.0 port on the rear of the Voyager S3.

Usage Instructions

Attaching to Your Computer

Steps to connect the Voyager S3 docking station to a computer via USB 3.0.

Attaching a Drive

Procedure for inserting a SATA hard drive into the dock and powering it on.

Macintosh Hard Drive Usage

Macintosh Initialization and Use

How to initialize and use a hard drive on a Macintosh computer with the Voyager S3.

Windows Hard Drive Usage

Windows Formatting and Use

How to use a hard drive on a Windows computer with the Voyager S3, including formatting.

Warranty Registration & Support

The Newer Technology Voyager S3 SATA Hard Drive Docking Solution is a versatile external docking station designed to provide easy access to 2.5" and 3.5" SATA I/II hard drives. This device simplifies the process of connecting bare hard drives to a computer, allowing users to mount them on their desktop as external storage devices. It is compatible with both Macintosh and Windows operating systems, offering a straightforward plug-and-play experience for a wide range of users.

Function Description

The primary function of the Voyager S3 is to serve as an interface between internal SATA hard drives and a computer via a USB 3.0 connection. This allows users to quickly and conveniently access data on hard drives without needing to install them internally into a computer enclosure. It supports both 2.5-inch and 3.5-inch SATA I/II drives, making it suitable for a variety of laptop and desktop hard drives.

The docking station features a top-loading design where a hard drive is inserted vertically into a dedicated slot. For 3.5" drives, a hinged flap provides access to the larger drive bay. Once a drive is docked, the Voyager S3 acts as an external drive enclosure, enabling data transfer, backup, and recovery operations. The USB 3.0 interface ensures high-speed data transfer rates, making it efficient for handling large files and extensive data sets.

The device includes a power LED to indicate its operational status and an activity LED that illuminates when the hard drive is being accessed, providing visual feedback on data transfer. A hard drive eject button is also integrated, allowing for safe and easy removal of docked drives. This feature helps prevent data corruption that can occur from abruptly disconnecting a drive.

Usage Features

Connecting the Voyager S3 to a computer is a simple, three-step process:

Power Connection: Plug the AC power cord into a wall outlet and then into the DC transformer. Connect the DC cord from the transformer to the Voyager S3's power receptacle.
Computer Connection: Connect the Voyager S3 to your computer using the provided USB 3.0 cable.
Drive Insertion: Ensure the Voyager S3 is turned off (the blue power LED should not be illuminated). Insert your SATA hard drive into the base of the docking station. For 3.5" drives, the hinged flap will accommodate the larger form factor. For 2.5" drives, they fit directly into the slot. Once the drive is securely seated, press the power button to turn the Voyager S3 on.

Once powered on and connected, the hard drive docked in the Voyager S3 will appear as an external drive on your computer.

Macintosh Usage:
- If the drive has been previously formatted and contains data, an icon for the drive will appear on the Desktop, and it can be used like any other external drive.
- For new, unformatted drives, an alert box will prompt you to initialize the drive. Clicking "Initialize..." will open Disk Utility (which can also be accessed via Applications > Utilities > Disk Utility).
- In Disk Utility, you can select the drive from the list, go to the "Erase" tab, and choose a volume format (e.g., "Mac OS Extended (Journaled)" is recommended for most Mac users). You can also assign a name to the drive.
- After confirming the erase operation, the drive's icon will appear on the Desktop, ready for use.
Windows Usage:
- No special drivers are required for Windows 98SE and higher.
- If the drive is already formatted, it will appear under "My Computer" as an external device.
- If the drive is not visible, it may need to be reformatted to a Windows-recognizable format. Reformatting will erase all existing data on the drive.
- Instructions for formatting drives on different Windows versions are available on the NewerTech distributor's website (Other World Computing) in their online Tech Center.

The hard drive eject button on the front of the docking station provides a convenient way to safely remove a drive after it has been unmounted from the operating system, minimizing the risk of data loss or corruption. The on/off switch on the rear allows for complete power control of the device.

Maintenance Features

The Voyager S3 is designed for ease of use and minimal maintenance. As a docking station, it does not require internal cleaning or complex upkeep. The primary maintenance considerations involve proper handling and care of the device and the hard drives used with it.

Cleanliness: Keep the docking station free from dust and debris, especially around the drive connector slot, to ensure reliable connections. A soft, dry cloth can be used for external cleaning.
Safe Drive Handling: Always handle hard drives with care, avoiding drops or impacts, as they are sensitive components. When inserting or removing drives from the Voyager S3, do so gently to prevent damage to the drive's SATA connector or the docking station's internal connector.
Proper Ejection: Always use the operating system's safe eject procedure (e.g., "Eject" on Mac, "Safely Remove Hardware" on Windows) before pressing the hard drive eject button or powering off the Voyager S3. This ensures that all data transfer operations are complete and the file system is properly unmounted, preventing data corruption.
Firmware/Software Updates: While the manual does not explicitly mention firmware updates for the Voyager S3 itself, it is good practice to keep your computer's operating system and USB drivers updated to ensure optimal performance and compatibility with external devices.
Troubleshooting: In case of issues, the manual directs users to NewerTech's website for warranty registration and technical support. This includes options for email support, phone support, and live chat assistance through their distributor, Other World Computing. These resources can help resolve any operational problems or answer questions regarding the device's functionality.

The robust design and straightforward operation of the Newer Technology Voyager S3 make it a reliable tool for anyone needing flexible and convenient access to SATA hard drives.