Overview
Transform Your Workflow with the OWC ThunderBay Flex 8
Introducing the OWC ThunderBay Flex 8, the ultimate solution in flexible and powerful desktop storage. Designed specifically for professionals in digital imaging, VFX, video production, and editing, this cutting-edge technology consolidates your workspace into a productive powerhouse.
Unparalleled Storage Flexibility
The ThunderBay Flex 8 features eight versatile drive bays that accommodate a combination of SATA/SAS and U.2/M.2 NVMe drives, providing expansive storage options that meet the demands of high-volume data management. Whether you're archiving vast video files or accessing high-speed data, the Flex 8 adapts to your storage needs seamlessly.
Enhanced Connectivity and Performance
With dual Thunderbolt 3 ports, USB-C, and USB-A connections, this device not only charges and docks but also boosts your productivity with rapid data transfer speeds. Experience real-world read/write capabilities of up to 2750MB/s, ideal for managing and editing 4K/8K and Phantom high-speed files without a hitch.
Display and Expansion Capabilities
- Connect up to an 8K display via a built-in DisplayPort 1.4 to see your work with unparalleled clarity and detail.
- Ingest high-resolution images and video rapidly with front-side SD 4.0 and CFexpress card readers.
- Utilise the PCIe expansion slot to customise your setup with additional graphics, audio, or data cards.
Designed for Professionals On the Go
The ThunderBay Flex 8 isn't just a static piece of equipment; it's a mobile command centre. Move from the studio to the field with ease thanks to its portable design, which includes a detachable USB-C cable for quick disconnection and setup.
Future-Proof Your Workspace
Invest in technology that grows with your needs. The ThunderBay Flex 8 supports daisy-chaining of up to five additional Thunderbolt 3 devices, expanding your possibilities further. It also includes SoftRAID XT, offering robust RAID options and drive management for enhanced data integrity and security.
Whether you're looking to streamline complex projects, increase your operational capacity, or secure your digital assets, the OWC ThunderBay Flex 8 provides a reliable, scalable solution that integrates seamlessly into any professional environment. Upgrade your setup today and experience the next level of desktop storage and expansion.
- Expand storage with eight versatile drive bays for maximum flexibility
- Dual 4K display support enhances multitasking and visual productivity
- Ultra-fast data transfers with 10Gbps USB 3.2 ports double your efficiency
- Connect and charge with multiple ports for comprehensive versatility
- Detachable USB-C cable ensures easy portability and setup flexibility
- High-resolution front-side card readers speed up photo and video workflows
- Customise with PCIe expansion for tailored system enhancements
- SoftRAID XT offers robust data management and security options
Video
Introducing the OWC ThunderBay Flex 8. Tame your workflow with this highly configurable productivity platform for digital imaging, VFX, video production, and video editing professionals.
Compatibility
Compatible with the devices listed below.
MacBook Air
MacBook Pro
Mac Pro
iMac
Mac mini
iMac Pro
Specifications
- Mechanisms Supported
-
- 3.5 or 2.5 inch SATA drives
- 2.5 inch U.2 drives (top 4 bays only)
- NVMe M.2 drives (via U.2 adapter)
- 3.5 or 2.5 inch SAS drives (requires SAS card, not included)
- Total Capacity
-
- 0TB
- Chipset
-
- Thunderbolt: intel JHL7440
- PCIe switch: ASMedia ASM-2824
- USB controller: Genesys Logic GL-3590
- Certifications
-
- BSMI, CE, FCC, RCM, VCCI
- Data Transfer Rate (Max)
-
- Thunderbolt 3: 40 Gb/s (or 5000 MB/s)
- RAID Levels Supported
-
- RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 0+1, RAID 4, RAID 5, JBOD
- RAID Features
-
- Software RAID
- MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures)
-
- Varies depending on drive mechanism installed
- Contact Start Stops
-
- Varies depending on drive mechanism installed
- Mac OS Compatibility
-
- macOS 10.15 Catalina
- macOS 11.x Big Sur
- macOS 12.x Monterey
- PC OS Compatibility
-
- Not compatible with Windows PCs
- Other Requirements
-
- macOS 10.15.1 or later required
- Host Port Requirements
-
- Thunderbolt 3
- Supported PCIe Cards
-
- Supports one full-height, half-length, single-width card (driverless or with Thunderbolt-aware driver). GPUs not supported
- Power Supply
-
- Internal UL-listed universal auto-switching power supply
- AC Input
-
- 100-240V, 47-63Hz, 4.0A-8.0A
- DC Output
-
- +12V, 42A
- Power Delivery
-
- 2 x Thunderbolt 3 ports (15W, 85W)
- Number of Bays
-
- 8
- Expansion Slots
-
- 1 x PCIe 3.0 x16 physical, x4 electrical, full-height, half-length, single-width
- Device Ports
-
- 2 x Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) ports
- 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 type-C port up to 10Gb/s (1250MB/s) - USB 2.0/3.0 backwards compatible
- 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 type-A ports up to 10Gb/s (1250MB/s) - USB 2.0/3.0 backwards compatible
- 1 x DisplayPort port
- Memory Card Slots
-
- 1 x CFexpress
- 1 x Secure digital (SD)
- Cooling
-
- 1 x 120 mm, 1,600RPM cooling fan
- Security Slot
-
- Yes
- Power Button
-
- Yes
- Dimensions
-
- H: 349 x L: 390 x W: 149 mm
- Weight
-
- 9200 g
What's in the box?
- 1 x OWC ThunderBay Flex 8
- 1 x Thunderbolt 3 Cable
- 1 x External Power Cable
- 1 x Keys for Front Panel Lock
- 1 x Hex Key
- 1 x Assembly Manual and User Guide
- 1 x SoftRAID Software Bundle
Warranty
- 3 Year Limited Warranty
Part Number
- OWCTB3F80C000