07
INSTALLATION
2.2 INSTALLING THE CARD IN A HOST OR PCIE ENCLOSURE
Please follow the steps below to install the OWC Accelsior 8M2 into a host computer or PCIe enclosure with
a compatible PCIe slot. Note: this card is susceptible to invisible damage if not protected during installation.
For proper grounding, we recommend using a grounding strap. Work in a clean, static-free area, and avoid
wearing clothing that retains static charges. Please visit this URL for more information:
www.owcdigital.com/anti-static
2.3 MAC & WINDOWS FORMATTING
If you purchased the OWC Accelsior 8M2 with drives pre-installed, they were formatted as a RAID 0 volume
for Mac using SoftRAID. We commend you download the lastest version at
softraid.com/support/download-
latest-version
and install the application to get the best performance. Note: the SoftRAID serial number
is on the device.
-If you are using a Windows PC the OWC Accelsior 8M2 will need to be reconfigured before
the device can be used. Please download and install SoftRAID for Windows, which has a feature
for converting Mac SoftRAID volumes to PC. The latest Windows version can also be found
at
softraid.com/support/download-latest-version
.
x8
x16
x1
x4
1. Disconnect all power and powered devices from your
host or PCIe enclosure. Open the host or enclosure so
the compatible PCIe slot(s) are visible and accessible.
NOTE: The OWC Accelsior 8M2 will only physically fit
into a 16x PCIe slot (highlighted). Consult your host
or enclosure manual to determine the PCIe slot
location and physical size.
2. Align the PCIe connector of the OWC Accelsior
8M2 SSD with the compatible slot on your host
as highlighted. Carefully seat the drive into the slot.
If there is resistance, do not force the drive into the
slot. Remove the drive, re-align the connector, and
try again.
3. Once the drive is fully seated affix the included screw
to the bracket as highlighted. NOTE: The OWC
Accelsior 8M2 SSD requires power through the 6-pin
power connector (highlighted) when using with PCIe
4.0 drives in a PCIe 4.0 slot.
3