The OWC Atlas Dual CFexpress and SD Card Reader is a versatile external card reader designed for professionals and enthusiasts who need to quickly transfer data from CFexpress Type B and SDXC (UHS-II) memory cards. This quick start guide provides an overview of the device, its system requirements, setup instructions, and usage notes.
Function Description:
The OWC Atlas Dual CFexpress and SD Card Reader serves as a bridge between high-speed memory cards and your computer or tablet. It allows for simultaneous reading and writing to both CFexpress Type B and SDXC (UHS-II) cards, streamlining workflows for photographers, videographers, and other content creators. The device is designed for portability, featuring a tethered USB-C cable for on-the-go connectivity and an optional USB-C 10Gb/s port for extended connections at home or in the office. A key feature is the write protection switch, which prevents accidental file deletion and card formatting, safeguarding your valuable data.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Supported Media:
- (1) CFexpress (Type B) cards (not included)
- (1) SDXC (up to 4.0 UHS-II) cards (not included)
- Connectivity:
- Tethered USB Type-C cable
- USB-C 10Gb/s port (for longer cables, sold separately)
- System Requirements:
- Hardware: Works with any Mac, PC, or tablet with a USB Type-C to Thunderbolt 3 or later port.
- Operating System:
- macOS 10.13 or later
- Windows 10 or later
- iPadOS 13 or later
- Chrome OS
- Linux
- Performance:
- CFexpress specification supports speeds up to 900 MB/s.
- SDXC specification supports speeds up to 312 MB/s.
- Performance results will vary depending on the SDXC card used.
- Independent Card Slots: Both card slots operate independently, allowing memory cards to be inserted and removed separately without affecting each other.
- LED Indicator: Provides visual feedback on the device's status and card activity.
- Off: Connected card reader without memory cards, connected card reader while the host is sleeping, unmounted cards from the operating system, or Mac users with SD cards (LED for SD cards will remain solid).
- Solid Blue: Connected card reader with cards but no read or write activity, or waking the host from sleep with cards inserted.
- Flashes Blue: Actively reading or writing to the memory cards.
- Write Protection Switch: A physical switch that prevents unwanted file deletion and card formatting for both inserted memory cards.
- Optional Accessory: OWC ClingOn-ready cable stabilizer mount (sold separately) to prevent accidental cable disconnections.
Usage Features:
- Easy Connection: Connect the Atlas Dual SD card reader to your compatible host via the tethered USB-C cable or an external USB-C cable connected to the USB-C 10Gb/s port.
- Card Insertion: Insert SDXC cards by aligning the memory card notches with the internal card reader connections, with the gold contacts facing down. If a card doesn't insert easily, check its orientation.
- Card Recognition: The card may take up to 30 seconds to be recognized when using over iPadOS, Android, or Chrome OS. macOS 13.x users will need to approve a pop-up window when connecting the device.
- Write Protection: The write protection switch protects both inserted memory cards. To enable or disable write protection, properly unmount and remove all memory cards from the reader, toggle the switch to the desired position, and then reinsert and reconnect the memory cards. Toggling the switch while cards are connected will not properly enable or disable write protection.
- Data Safety: Always eject or unmount your memory card from your operating system before physically removing it from the reader to ensure no data is lost.
- Cable Management: The tethered USB-C cable can be stored by placing the USB-C connector into the cavity on the underside of the reader, pressing down on the black connector, and wrapping the cable into the notch.
- No Chaining: Chaining other docks off the USB-C 10Gb/s port is not supported.
- ClingOn Compatibility: If using an OWC ClingOn, install it carefully, avoiding overtightening the mounting screw.
- Troubleshooting: If you cannot write to a memory card, check if the Write protection switch is enabled. Ensure cable connections are secure and the memory card is fully seated if it is not being recognized by the host.
Maintenance Features:
- Data Integrity: The write protection switch is a crucial maintenance feature, preventing accidental data loss due to deletion or formatting.
- Proper Unmounting: Always unmount cards from the operating system before physical removal to maintain data integrity and prevent corruption.
- Secure Connections: Ensure cable connections are secure to prevent interruptions during data transfer.
- Support: OWC provides support for the device. Users should have their serial number ready (located on the bottom of the reader and original packaging) when contacting support for assistance.
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