Optimizing High-Speed Storage Connectivity: Addressing SSD Detection and Boot Delays on Beelink SER8 with 40Gbps Enclosures
Introduction
High-performance external storage solutions are increasingly commonplace for professionals and enthusiasts seeking rapid data transfer speeds. However, leveraging cutting-edge enclosures and fast ports can sometimes introduce compatibility and boot-time challenges. This article explores common issues faced when connecting 40Gbps NVMe enclosures, specifically focusing on a case involving the Beelink SER8 mini-PC and a Ugreen ASM-2464 enclosure housing a WD SN850X 4TB NVMe SSD.
The Challenge
Users have reported that when connecting their Ugreen ASM-2464 NVMe enclosure via a USB4.0 (USB-C) port, the SSD does not immediately appear in Windows or Linux systems. In Windows, the drive appears only after approximately two minutes, causing inconvenience. In Debian 13 (a Linux distribution), the system’s boot process pauses for about a minute, displaying error messages related to the NVMe device before the drive becomes accessible.
Specific Observations:
- Windows: SSD detected only after a 2-minute delay.
- Debian 13: Boot hangs for about a minute with error logs, then proceeds normally.
- Other USB ports at lower speeds (10Gbps) and other enclosures function correctly without delays.
System Details
- Hardware: Beelink SER8 8745HS, equipped with 32GB RAM.
- Enclosure: Ugreen ASM-2464, firmware updated to the latest version.
- Storage: WD SN850X 4TB NVMe SSD.
- Connecting Port: USB4.0 (USB-C) port at the rear of the device.
Error and Log Insights
Linux kernel logs during boot reveal specific errors:
“`
[ 1.429141] thunderbolt 0-2: new device found, vendor=0xb8 device=0x2463
[ 1.429148] thunderbolt 0-2: ASMedia 246x
[ 1.561775] thunderbolt 0-0:2.1: new retimer found, vendor=0x7fea device=0x1032
[ 62.520898] nvme nvme1: Failed to read smart log (error -5)
[ 62.521392] nvme 0000:08:00.0: probe with driver nv
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