M2 Pro 맥 미니 SSD 확장하기 (썬더볼트/C타입 NVME 인클로져, D50 썬더볼트 독)

* 이 글은 2023년 11월 첫 발간하고

2025년 3월 대학원가면서 내용추가를 진행하였다.

내가 한 것들

- 싸구려 인클로져 구매 (힉세미)

- 괜찮은 인클로져 구매 (에이수스)

- 재고떨이 도킹스테이션 구매 (웬디 블랙 WD BLACK D50 GAMING 썬더볼트 독)

...

유노 하위 두잇

발더스 게이트 3에 빠져 살면서

맥과 윈도컴으로 여러 서비스를 즐기고 있다.

2023.03.29 - [Electronics log/Electronics Log (as Consumer)] - Mac 구매 고민-개봉기 (M2 Pro 미니 + 주변장치) - 스압 주의

Mac 구매 고민-개봉기 (M2 Pro 미니 + 주변장치) - 스압 주의

Can't Get Ya Outta Ma Hed M2 맥미니는 출시와 함께 계속 머릿속에 맴돈다. 스페이스 그레이를 빼버리면서 M2의 더욱 강력해진 성능을 맛보고 싶었다... 타 분야에서는 레이븐클로, WB가 배정해준 곳은

thewanderer.tistory.com

M2 Pro + 16GB 맥 미니는

데일리 드라이버인데 성능이 워낙 좋아서리.

램이 후달려서 그렇지

출퇴근용으로 쓰는 자가용 자동차를

퇴근길에 고대로 서킷에 올려서 180km/h까지 급가속 - 코너 40km/h 급감속 - 160km/h 페달투메탈로 때려밟아도

쭉쭉 잘 나가는 그런 느낌이다.

다만 M2 Pro 칩에 CTO를 넣진 않아서

그래픽이 쫌 딸린다.

5600x + 3060ti 컴은 게임용인데

맥미니 산 뒤로 거의 안 켠다.

씨퓨는 좀 떨어지지만

M2 pro의 내장글카보단 3060ti가 성능이 훨씬 좋다.

일단 그래픽 전용 메모리가 따로 있는데다

성능 자체도... 소비전력이 얼만데 좋아야만 하지 않겠는가.

여튼. 각설하고.

요즘 100GB어치 파일이나 게임은

흔한 사이즈이다보니

500GB 내장 SSD는 터무니없이 모자라는게 현실이다.

(스토리지도 CTO를 안 줬다. 짠돌이라서.)

16GB의 좁은 메모리 + 그래픽의 공유메모리 (발게3 플레이하면 3 ~ 7기가를 메모리용으로 끌어다쓴다)로

스왑이 엄청 많다보니 (맥시멈 3-4GB정도 발생)

맥 미니의 내장 SSD가 엄청나게 혹사당하고 있다.

그와중에 남은 용량이 35GB로 떨어져버리니

캐싱이 있다 하더라도 (애플 스스디는 캐시가 몇메가인지 나와있지도 않다ㅠ)

성능저하가 확연하게 느껴진다.

이번에 소프트웨어 막 지우면서 170GB까지 확보하여

숨통을 좀 틔워주긴 했으나...

iMovie랑 GarageBand 등등 프로젝트를 매번 다 날려버려야하는게 좀

속이 쓰리다.

적어도 스팀 + 대용량 파일 (아이클라우드에 안 올리는 놈들)을 따로 보관하면서도

내장SSD모냥 24/7 붙여놓고 쓸 외장 SSD의 필요성이 절실하게 느껴지는 시점.

블프인데 뭐 ㅅㅂ 제대로된건 행사하는게 하나도 없어서

(내 맘에드는건 1도 없음)

정가 주고 지르기로 결정하였다.

검색하며 찾은 안들:

1안 - USB 3.1 (10gbps) + PCIe 3.0 NVMe

2안 - USB 3.2 (20gbps) + PCIe 3.0 NVMe

3안 - Thunderbolt 3 (40gbps) + PCIe 3.0/4.0 NVMe

4안 - Thunderbolt 4 / USB4 (40gbps) + PCIe 3.0/4.0 NVMe

5안 - 썬더볼트 3/4 + 내장 SSD

USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 (20Gbps)의 경우

맥에서 지원하지 않아 10Gbps급으로 떨어져 작동하는듯 하다.

썬더볼트 대역폭이 매우 넓다 하더라도

썬더볼트측에서 체크썸이나 기타 다른 패킷등의 오버헤드가 있을 것으로 예상된다.

(썬볼 자체가 디스플레이니 고전력 파워니 뭐니 잔뜩 지원하다보니 그런 네고시에이션 패킷이 오갈게 뻔하다. 체크썸은 당연히 있을거고)

온도도 착하고 맥미니/맥북에어/맥북프로 3대에서 손수 검증한 SSD,

스크 현대전자의 (하이닉스) P31 스스디를 때려박기로 결정하였다.

2023.03.13 - [Electronics log/Electronics Log (as Consumer)] - 맥 미니(2014) 퓨전 드라이브 구성 (NVME & SATA SSD) Feat. 아키텍쳐 고찰

맥 미니(2014) 퓨전 드라이브 구성 (NVME & SATA SSD) Feat. 아키텍쳐 고찰

맥 미니 NVMe를 업그레이드할 떄가 시부엉 되어버렸다. 어바웃 댐 타임~ 노래가 너무 캐치하다. 가끔씩 머릿속에서 맴돈다 ㅋㅋ https://support.apple.com/kb/SP710?locale=ko_KR Mac mini (2014년 후반 모델) - 제

thewanderer.tistory.com

2023.08.13 - [Electronics log/Electronics Log (as Consumer)] - 구형 맥북 SSD 교체 Log (15년 프로, 17년 에어)

구형 맥북 SSD 교체 Log (15년 프로, 17년 에어)

13th August 2023 옛날 옛적 개그콘서트로 주말 끝을 보낼 시절 스티비 원더의 part time lover노래가 끝무렵에 흘러나왔다. 내 낡아빠진 컴퓨터들에게 열심히 채찍질을 가하며 혹사시키고 있다. M2 Pro 가

thewanderer.tistory.com

1안. 저렴한 C타입 + P31 500GB

나라면 갓수스 제품사지

저런 듣보잡 회사건 사지 않을 예정.

그러면

케이스 5.8 + 0.3 = 6.1

스스디 6.2 + 0.25 = 6.5 (반올림)

시그마 6.1 + 6.5 = 12.6만원 (500기가 10 Gbps)

2안. USB3.2 2x2 - 패스 (mac 미지원)

3안. 썬더볼트 3 - 패스 (썬볼 4 케이스랑 가격차이가 없음)

4안. 썬더볼트 4 (덤으로 USB4 딸려옴) + 1TB

케이스 14.89 + 0.3 = 15.2 (반올림)

스스디 11.3 + 0.25 = 11.6 (반올림)

시그마 15.2 + 11.6 = 26.8만원 (1TB 32Gbps)

정황상 PCIe 3.0 x4 커넥션을 쓰는듯 하며, P31 1TB기준 RW 둘 다 2800MB/s정도 나온다고 한다.

순수 페이로드 기준 (부가 오버헤드 제하고) 22.4Gbps니까

썬더볼트의 데이터 페이로드 대역폭 32Gbps의 순수 데이터 페이로드부분 맥스아웃 근방까지 간 것이라고 보면 되겠다.

아마 인텔의 썬볼쪽 칩셋 병목으로 PCIe 4.0을 달지 않은듯 하다.

이더넷 통신 기준으로 1Gbps의 총 대역폭은 125MB/s인데

실제 순수 데이터 페이로드 대역폭은 113MB/s이니

오버헤드 로스가 약 12MB/s, 10% 로스가 있다.

물론 선더볼트의 통신오버헤드가 이더넷보단 높겠지만

그렇다고 32-22.4 = 9.6Gbps,

거의 30%를 통신오버헤드로 잃는다고 보긴 어렵겠다.

여튼. 각설하고.

5안. 썬더볼트 + 내장 스스디

아무리 찾아봐도

내장 스스디 중에 4안보다 속도가 잘 나오거나 (비싸더라도)

단가가 저렴한 (속도가 비슷하거나 떨어지더라도) 녀석이 안 보인다.

웬디 스스디는 단순한 SSD가 아니라

도킹스테이션인데도 단가가 제일 싸다.

이 무슨 현상인가.

ㅅㅂ

사이즈는 MSI 미니큐브나 인텔 눅만한가보다.

흠... 부가적인거 다 필요없는데...

노트북용이면 올? PD로 충전이랑 랜선이랑 등등하면

완전 도킹스테이션인데 그와중에 SSD가 들어있다고??

하겠다만...

나는 맥 미니용이라...

(이미 USB A타입 3.0 포트가 15개나 주렁주렁 달려있다. USB 셀렉터의 허브와 모니터 내장 허브 (모니터에 카메라 마이크 얼굴인식기 달려있음. 필립스제품) 등등으로 포도송이모냥 주렁주렁 달려있다.)

디스플레이포트랑 썬더볼트 데이지체인 포트는 모니터 선 정리할때 좋긴 하겠구먼.

근데 스토리지로 쓸건데

거기에 모니터 붙여버리면 대역폭 나눠먹기해서 의미가 없어지잖아.

그럼 저기에 수많은 포트는 다 쓸데 없는거네. 진짜.

1TB에 읽기 3000, 쓰기 2500.

딱하나 장점이 있다면 액티브 쿨링시스템이 내장되어있어서

쿨링걱정을 할 필요가 없다 정도..?

근데 나는 P31를 쓸거라 솔직히 그 부분도 그닥...

그럼 나에게는

- 싸구려 1안 12.6만원 500GB랑 (1테라로 확장하면 6만원정도 추가하면 됨)

- 조립형 4안 26.8만원 1TB 옵션이 있다.

4안이 가성비 (용량과 성능 모두) 좋긴 한데

저 회사가 듣보잡이라.. 별로 쓰고싶지가 않다.

ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ

나는 브랜드 겁나 보면서

(툴은 디월트 밀워키 마키타, 차는 독일미국차, 폰은 애플삼성...)

브랜드 조낸 까는 이상한 놈이다.

흠....

일단 나는 짠돌이니깐.

1안에서 스스디 안 사고

(전에 500GB 5만원 주고 샀는데 지금 6.6만원으로 가격이 올랐다 ㅠ)

맥북 에어의 업글SSD를 다시 뺏들어오는 방식으로

6만 얼마에 공간확보를 하기로 결정.

ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ

개짠돌이.

ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ

C타입 10Gbps로 함 써보고

아 이거 진짜 느려서 못써먹겠다 하면

4안으로 갈 예정이다.

올?

RGB 극혐인 나에게

아수스 터프 게이밍과 오리코가 보인다.

솔직히 오리코 품질 나쁘지 않은데

짱깨샛기에게 내 돈을 주느니

대만느님에게 내 돈을 주...

근데 가격차이가 2배급이네.

ㅜㅜ

무의식적으로 11번가 바로접속으로 같은 제품을 검색해봤는데

(다나와 통한가격이랑 똑같으면 굳이 통해서 살 필요 없으니까)

미국에서 오는게 국내에서 오는것보다 싸다...??

왓더 뻑...???

41,680원 주고 하나 샀다.

오 야쓰! 야스리!!

싸다고 두 개 사려는거

진짜 꾹꾹 눌러참고 하나만 샀다.

지려버렸다리.

배송올때까지 기다려보고

도착하면 맥북에어 원상복구 시킨 뒤

(아니면 맥 미니 2014년식을 다운그레이드 시킬 수도 있음. 어차피 느려서 거의 안 쓴다)

그 스스디를 박아서 밴치마크랑 실사용을 해볼 예정이다.

일단 미국에서 오려면 좀 걸릴터이니

기둘리자.

11번가 참 맘에 드는구만

스스디도 착하게 잘 만 들고

쇼핑몰도 잘 운영하고.

그놈의 줫같은 광고만 좀 안 했으면.

그 여자애 진짜 볼 때마다 한대 줘 박아버리고싶다.

진짜 듣기 싫은 목소리.

뭐하는애냐 진짜

개극혐임.

11번가 홍보팀도 같이 극혐임.

지크는 광고 잘 하드만.

광고는 신곡처럼 계속 노출시켜서 익숙해지게 만들어야되는데

너무 적나라하게 숫자 던지고 족같은 노래 듣기싫게 자꾸 쳐 부르니까

진짜 유툽 애드블락이랑 넷플 껏다켜기 시전하게 만듦.

두아리파 광고하는거 보고 좀 배웠으면.

ㅅㅂ 명품 광고하는데 성분 쳐 떠들고 있냐고 국산 싸구려 화장품처럼.

걍 존나 멋있게 걷고 끝 아님.

생각하니까 또 빡치네.

25th Nov 2023

흠.

6안. 2014 맥 미니의 타겟디스크 + 썬더볼트 2/3 어댑터

ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ

맥 미니에서 PCIe 2.0 대역폭을 4레인으로 당겨쓴다면 해볼만 하겠다만

맥 미니는 PCIe 2.0 x2로 800메가 수준에 머무른다.

맥북 에어나 프로는 그래도 x4로 나오는데 말이여...

일단 PCIe 버전부터가 2.0이라

영..

그리고 썬더볼트 2 케이블 (3만-4만) + 썬볼 2/3 어댑터 (6만) 하면

단가가 상당히 올라간다.

일단 이런 옵션이 있다 정도만..ㅋㅋ

1st Dec 2023

날씨가 점점 추워지고 있다.

정말정말 행복하다.

나는 얼음이 어는 온도가 가장 쾌적하다고 느끼는 닝겐이다.

내 피에 약 10%정도로 슬라브족의 피가 흐르고 있다

한국계 / 중국계 한족이랑 랑 인도네시아계가 약 25%인데,

인도네시아 자체가 미국따위 쳐바르는 다민족국가라 큰 의미가 없다.

비낑 (viking)의 피도 묽게 흐르고 있는 것 같은데 (러시아 서쪽과 북유럽은 붙어있으므로)

이는 엔세스터리 닷 컴 등을 통해 DNA 테스트를 해볼 예정이다.

디자인드 인 코리아 윗 글로벌 메테리얼

어셈블드 인 코리아 윗 글로벌 메테리얼

소프트웨어 뤼튼 인 아힐랜드, USA, 코리아 윗 글로벌 메테리얼.

생긴건 여전히 동양인이다....

옐로몽끼 ㅜㅜ

송장번호가 무슨 재채기 소리갔다.

에이페츄 !!

ㅋㅋ;

전화번호를 버리는 용도로 쓰는 놈을 박았더만

바로 통관에 걸렸다.

2022.02.21 - [Life Log/Personal Life] - 한진국제특송 통관 정지.. 통관번호 오류가 아니었음 (Amazon & 11번가 Amazon)

한진국제특송 통관 정지.. 통관번호 오류가 아니었음 (Amazon & 11번가 Amazon)

2023.Jan.14th 추가: 한진국제특송 통관오류 검색유입은 지금 이순간에도 끊임없이 들어오고 있다. Wow. 결론부터 말하자면 (당시 필자 경험 기반 결론) - [통관번호오류]라고 진짜 [통관번호에 오류]

thewanderer.tistory.com

관세청도 그렇고

한진도 그렇고

다 쥐어박아버리고 싶다.

전화번호 틀렷다고 벌벌떠는거 보면...

영문이름 한글이름은 그렇다 쳐도 말이여.

ㅜㅜ

이따 컨택 때려봐야겠다.

4th Dec 2023

인식이 잘 된다.

다만

macOS가 깔린 SSD다보니

쓰기가 금지되어있고

초기화하는것도 오래 걸린다. (시큐어 이레이즈를 하는듯함)

초기화하고 IO테스트를 해봤는데...

초당 입출력 횟수는 잘 뽑히는데

초당 읽쓰 속도는 영 구리다.

ㅜㅜ

USB 3.2 Gen 2 x1이 (채널을 듀얼로 쓰지 못하는 이 녀석의 경우) 10Gbps 대역폭을 가지고 (1.25 GB/s)

PCIe 2.0 x2가 10GT/s이고 8b/10b 인코딩을 하므로 GT/s기준 8GT/s의 데이터 전송률을 가진다. (985 MB/s)

PCIe 3.0 x2나 x4를 USB3.1로 변환해주는 칩셋이 TUF 케이스 안에 들어있는데

이놈이 병목으로 걸리나보다.

2023.03.13 - [Electronics log/Electronics Log (as Consumer)] - 맥 미니(2014) 퓨전 드라이브 구성 (NVME & SATA SSD) Feat. 아키텍쳐 고찰

맥 미니(2014) 퓨전 드라이브 구성 (NVME & SATA SSD) Feat. 아키텍쳐 고찰

thewanderer.tistory.com

맥미니 PCIe 2.0 x2 SSD와

NVME + SSD 퓨전드라이브 벤치마크값을 가져와보면;

왼쪽은 P31 500GB only (SATA SSD 없음)

오른쪽은 Samsung ES (PCIe 3.0 x4, DRAM없음) 256GB + Gigabyte (DRAM없음) 256GB SATA SSD 퓨전드라이브

벤치값이다.

RAID형태로 묶는게 아니라 캐시-스토리지 형태로 묶는 형태다보니

거의 온전히 NVMe SSD의 성능에 종속된다.

솔직히 지금 SSD랑 대동소이하다보니

이럴거면 썬더볼트 + 타켓디스크모드로 쓸걸 싶은 맴이 크다.

지금 발더스 게이트가 맥에서 실행이 안 되서

뭐로 테스트를 해봐야할지 감이 안온다.

일단 발더스 게이트를 새 SSD에 옮기는데

속도가 1.02GB로 잘 나오긴 한다.

...

일단 문제는 없다.

Windows 11 on Arm 가상머신을 여기에 올려놓고 쓰고 있는데

속도저하는 체감이 안 된다.

솔직히 나는 1GB/s (순차읽기) 수준이면 OS 디스크용으로는 충분하다고 생각하는게

어차피 애플리케이션이든 커널레벨 명령어든 OS그 자체든

대다수의 IO는 랜덤 스몰 액세스이기 때문에

SATA의 500메가도 충분하다고 본다.

물론 PCIe 4.0 x4에 파이어쿠다 SSD가 박힌 게임컴을 부팅하다가

800MB/s밖에 안 나오는 PCIe 2.0 x2 짜리 (+ Sata ssd 퓨전드라이브) i5 맥 미니를 쓰면

부팅 시간이 확인이 체감이 된다.

그러나 대부분 CPU랑 메모리 IO가 좋을수록

애플리케이션 반응속도나 OS 구동 속도 체감율이 훨씬 올라가기 때문에

Basicaly 무시해도 되는 부분이다.

일단은 6만원짜리 확장으로 만족하려 한다.

15th Mar 2025

약 2년전

Asus TUF MVME Case + P31 500GB조합을 맞추고

엄청 잘쓰고 있었다.

https://thewanderer.tistory.com/187

드디어 다음 길이 보인다... (고려대학교 정보보호대학원)

Jack Black - ...Baby One More TimeOh, pretty baby, There's nothing that I wouldn't doIt's not the way I planned it Show me how you want it to beTell me, baby, 'cause I need to know nowOh, because My loneliness is killin' me

thewanderer.tistory.com

https://thewanderer.tistory.com/138

새로운 삶의 시작 - 생산적으로 실패하기 (대학원 시작 log)

오늘은 25th Feb 2025 브금은 이거다:beegees - Stayin' Alive 요즘 내 무드가 딱 이거다. Well, you can tell by the way I use my walkI'm a woman's man, no time to talkMusic loud and women warm, I've been kicked around si

thewanderer.tistory.com

이번에 대학원에 들어가게 되었다.

데이터 한 번 때리면 몇백기가씩 되고

운영체제 설치파일이나 툴 (IDE, SDK 같은 대용량) 파일이 산더미로 있다보니

휴대용 NVMe 스토리지도 필요하고

도킹스테이션도 하나 필요하게 되었다.

그동안 거금들여 구매한 맥북 프로는

300만원이나 하는 웹서핑용 키보드 트랙패드로 전락했었으나

(Apple Continuity)

드디어 학교에서 혹사시킬 수 있게 되었다.

램이 18기가인데 보통 사용량이 14-17GB...

아직 툴도 안 띄웠는디....

일단 게이밍 PC에서 P31 2장을 적출해내기 위해

싸구려 NVMe 1TB를 한 장 샀다.

이거 살때 진짜 고민 개 열심히 했다.

아래는 전문컨설턴트 Chad GPT의 마초컨설팅 내역
(엄청 긺)

필자

Already bought WD Black D50 game dock (without internal SSD) and going to put an order for SSD (2 or 4 TB) This Already has a DP port, and the macbook itself has a HDMI port. If I want to use Display link for One extra QHD 75Hz monitor (and use other peripherals like ethernet, usb ports and NVMe SSD) will thunderbolt 3 connection get bottlenecked by itself frequently?

피티

The WD Black D50 Game Dock is a Thunderbolt 3 dock, which means it has 40Gbps of total bandwidth available. However, the bandwidth is shared across all connected devices, including your DisplayLink monitor, NVMe SSD, Ethernet, and USB devices. Whether or not you experience bottlenecks depends on how heavily you’re using each component.

How Thunderbolt 3 Bandwidth is Allocated

Thunderbolt 3 provides 40Gbps total, but it’s divided into two main categories:

• PCIe Data (Up to 32Gbps) → Used for NVMe SSDs, DisplayLink adapters, and other high-speed peripherals.

• Display Data (Up to 8Gbps per display) → Used for native DisplayPort/HDMI connections.

Your setup will use both types of data, but the PCIe bus is the most likely to get congested.

Bandwidth Usage Breakdown in Your Setup

Will There Be Bottlenecks?

• With a high-speed NVMe SSD + DisplayLink, there is a chance of performance loss when both are heavily used (e.g., running disk-intensive operations + moving windows on the DisplayLink monitor).

• Gaming or high-motion tasks on the DisplayLink screen may stutter slightly due to software compression and PCIe bandwidth sharing.

• For general productivity (coding, browsing, office work, security research), you won’t notice much of a bottleneck.

• Ethernet, USB devices, and external storage will work fine unless you max out the NVMe SSD speed.

Ways to Optimize Performance

1. Use the WD Black D50’s DisplayPort for One Monitor Instead of DisplayLink

• The D50 has a native DisplayPort, which does not consume PCIe bandwidth like DisplayLink.

• Ideal setup:

• Monitor 1 → D50 DisplayPort (uses macOS’s native GPU output)

• Monitor 2 → MacBook’s HDMI port (also native GPU)

• Monitor 3 (DisplayLink) → Connected via USB-A/C on the D50

2. Monitor Storage Bandwidth

• If you’re copying large files to the NVMe SSD while using the DisplayLink monitor, you might see UI lag.

• Try using an external USB-C SSD for less critical storage to offload bandwidth.

3. Keep DisplayLink Driver Updated

• DisplayLink software is always improving and can optimize CPU and bandwidth use.

4. Use a Lower Refresh Rate if Necessary

• QHD at 60Hz instead of 75Hz might reduce bandwidth congestion if you notice performance issues.

Final Verdict

• Thunderbolt 3 will handle your setup, but some bottlenecks may occur during high workloads.

• If you use D50’s native DisplayPort for one monitor + MacBook’s HDMI for another, your DisplayLink monitor will have minimal impact.

• If your NVMe SSD is under heavy use, expect occasional DisplayLink lag.

• For general use, there won’t be noticeable performance issues.

Would you like recommendations for a good NVMe SSD that balances performance and thermal efficiency for your dock? 🚀

필자

well for the ssd, I am looking for balance between performance / thermal radiation / price per GB. Here are my candidates:

- KLEVV CRAS C910 2TB (150,800 KRW) PCIe 4.0 x4

Pros

- Cheap. Good option for a cheapskate like me.

- Uses Micron chips (Allegedly, need to verify this) which indicates the endurance would be within acceptable range

Cons

- DRAM-less. Don't really care but still. (If i cared the speed, I would've bought a dedicated NVMe case with good controller in it)

- Said it generates a lot of heat under load. (need to see how much)

- SK Hynix P31 1TB (141,000 KRW) - PCIe 3.0 x4

Pros

- Low heat generation (I am using five 500GB P31 and they never exeed 40 degrees Celsius.

- Well known brand, well know for stability (endurance)

- DDR4 0.5GB Cache, not much but don't really care that much though.

Cons

- 2TB is Too expensive for me (225,000 krw), but not sure if I need 2TB at all.

- Samsung 980 1TB (106,000 KRW) PCIe 3.0 x4

Pros

- It is Samsung - good customer service

- Well known brand, well know for stability (endurance)

Cons

- It is samsung, infamously known for compatibility issues (Hackintosh, UEFI mod, or even some other cases.)

- DRAM-less (I think, need to verify), price isn't in for dram-less range but need to double check.

Further work

- How much heat is generated?

- Micron Crucial T500 1TB(119,000 KRW) or 2TB (197,990 KRW) - PCIe 4.0 x4

Pros

- 1GB DDR4 cache

- a bit future proof (all of my pc & mac have pcie 3.0 ports but in the future PCIe 3.0 will be obsolete)

- Well known brand

Cons

- A bit pricy (but canceled out by future proofing and performance)

- ?

Further work

- How much heat is generated?

No QLC is acceptable, for example;

- Micron Crucial P3 Plus (dirt cheap, QLC)

- Micron Crucial P310 (QLC)

- Western Digital WD Green SN350 (QLC, also WD is well known for getting on fire level heat output)

- Intel Solidigm 670p (QLC)

피티

Your breakdown of SSDs is well thought out! Given your thermal concerns, price sensitivity, and performance balance, let’s analyze your candidates in depth, focusing on real-world performance, endurance, and heat generation.

Comparison Table (Performance, Thermal, and Cost)

SSDCapacityPrice (KRW)InterfaceSeq. Read (MB/s)Seq. Write (MB/s)DRAM?Avg Temp (°C)TBW (Endurance)

KLEVV CRAS C910	2TB	150,800	PCIe 4.0 x4	5000	4200	❌ DRAM-less	High (~65°C under load)	Unknown (~600-800TBW expected)
SK Hynix P31	1TB	141,000	PCIe 3.0 x4	3500	3200	✅ 0.5GB DDR4	Low (~40°C under load)	750TBW
Samsung 980	1TB	106,000	PCIe 3.0 x4	3500	3000	❌ DRAM-less	Medium (~55°C under load)	600TBW
Micron Crucial T500	1TB / 2TB	119,000 / 197,990	PCIe 4.0 x4	7300	6900	✅ 1GB DDR4	Medium (~55-60°C under load)	1200TBW (2TB)

Breakdown of Each SSD

1️⃣ KLEVV CRAS C910 (2TB) - Cheapest PCIe 4.0 Option

🔥 Best For: Cheapskates needing PCIe 4.0 speeds

• Pros:

• Cheapest PCIe 4.0 SSD with decent speeds (5GB/s read, 4.2GB/s write)

• Uses Micron NAND (reportedly, but needs verification)

• Cons:

• DRAM-less → Slower sustained writes and can cause stutters in some workloads.

• Reported high heat (~65°C+ under load) → Might thermal throttle inside the WD D50 dock.

• Unknown TBW rating, but likely decent if it’s TLC.

✅ Verdict: If budget is the main factor, this is fine, but watch out for high temperatures. Would recommend an SSD heatsink if you choose this.

2️⃣ SK Hynix Gold P31 (1TB) - Coolest & Most Efficient

🔥 Best For: Low heat, power efficiency, endurance

• Pros:

• Lowest heat generation (40°C under load) → Great for enclosed docks like the D50.

• Proven durability and stability (750TBW endurance).

• Has DRAM cache (0.5GB DDR4) → Faster sustained writes than DRAM-less SSDs.

• Cons:

• PCIe 3.0, not 4.0 → Not future-proof, but still fast enough.

• 2TB version is expensive (~225,000 KRW).

✅ Verdict: Best for temperature concerns and stability. Perfect if you don’t need PCIe 4.0 speeds. If 1TB is enough, this is the safest option.

3️⃣ Samsung 980 (1TB) - Budget Samsung Option

🔥 Best For: Budget-conscious users who want Samsung reliability

• Pros:

• Cheap (106,000 KRW)

• Samsung warranty & support

• Cons:

• DRAM-less

• Known Samsung compatibility issues (Hackintosh, UEFI, etc.)

• Medium heat (55°C under load), higher than Hynix P31.

✅ Verdict: If you trust Samsung support, this is fine, but P31 is better for low heat and endurance.

4️⃣ Micron Crucial T500 (1TB / 2TB) - Future-Proof Powerhouse

🔥 Best For: High performance + future-proofing

• Pros:

• PCIe 4.0 x4 with 7300MB/s read, 6900MB/s write.

• 1GB DDR4 DRAM cache.

• TBW (Endurance): 1200TBW (2TB model), which is excellent.

• Brand reputation (Micron).

• Cons:

• Higher price (2TB = 197,990 KRW).

• Heat under load (~55-60°C), but lower than CRAS C910.

✅ Verdict: If you want long-term future-proofing, T500 (2TB) is the best all-around choice. Worth it if you can spend extra.

Final Recommendation

PriorityBest SSDWhy?

Best Value (Cheapest for 2TB)	KLEVV CRAS C910 (2TB)	Budget PCIe 4.0, but watch out for heat
Lowest Heat (Best for Dock Enclosures)	SK Hynix P31 (1TB)	Coolest (40°C max), solid endurance
Best Performance + Future-Proofing	Micron Crucial T500 (2TB)	PCIe 4.0, best endurance (1200TBW), 1GB DRAM

Final Thoughts

• If 1TB is enough, get the Hynix P31 (safest, lowest heat).

• If you want 2TB at low cost, get KLEVV CRAS C910, but ensure proper cooling.

• If you want the best long-term SSD, go for Crucial T500 (2TB).

🚀 Would you like recommendations for a thermal pad/heatsink to keep temps low?

필자

Add these to the list pls (and do the research like heat output and performance throughput)

- Seagate Firecuda 530R with HEatsink, 1TB, 138,020KRW, pcie 4.0 (I already have the exact same one)

- Essencore KLEVV CRAS C730, 2TB 145,550 KRW, DRAM included, PCIe 3.0 (think I saw few complains about heat)

- WD Blue SN580, 2TB 155,000 KRW, dram-less, pcie 4.0, prone to overheat without decent cooling solution (which may not be available for WD Dock D50)

- Solidigm (SK hynix) P44 Pro, 1TB for 119,000 or 2TB for 187,000 KRW, pcie 4.0, DDR4 2GB ram (!), it is solidigm (going to be discontinued soon in customer's market), decent performace and good price for that, dunno about the heat.

- Samsung PM9A1 병행수입, PCIe 4.0x4, DDR4 1GB, 1TB 110,450 KRW, infamously incompatible with many many cases, IDK about the heat, decent performance

- SK hynix Platinum P41 ,DDR4 2GB(!) why am I ampherthising this, 2TB 196,240 or 1TB 113,490, futureproof, heard that it gets hotter than predecessor the p31,

- KLEVV CRAS C930, 1TB 104,190 or 2TB 174,330 KRW, DDR4 2GB, PCIe 4.0, heat? idk, performance? good. Which chips are used? IDK (Controller is InnoGrit IG5236, idk if this is good or not)

피티

Certainly! Let’s delve into the additional SSDs you’ve listed, focusing on their performance, thermal characteristics, and overall value. This will help you make an informed decision that balances performance, heat output, and price per GB.

1. Seagate FireCuda 530R with Heatsink, 1TB – 138,020 KRW, PCIe 4.0

Pros:

• High Performance: Offers impressive sequential read/write speeds, leveraging PCIe 4.0 capabilities.

• Integrated Heatsink: Designed to manage heat effectively, reducing the risk of thermal throttling.

Cons:

• Reliability Concerns: Some users have reported failures after specific Windows updates, particularly in PS5 setups.

Heat Management: The built-in heatsink is effective in maintaining optimal temperatures, ensuring sustained performance.

2. Essencore KLEVV CRAS C730, 2TB – 145,550 KRW, PCIe 3.0

Pros:

• Cost-Effective: Competitive pricing for a 2TB SSD.

• Included DRAM Cache: Enhances performance, particularly in random read/write operations.

Cons:

• Heat Generation: Users have reported higher temperatures under load, which could be a concern in enclosed environments.

Heat Management: Adequate cooling solutions are recommended to prevent potential thermal throttling.

3. WD Blue SN580, 2TB – 155,000 KRW, PCIe 4.0

Pros:

• Affordable PCIe 4.0 SSD: Provides higher bandwidth at a reasonable price.

Cons:

• DRAM-less Design: May result in slower performance in specific workloads.

• Thermal Concerns: Prone to overheating without proper cooling, which might be challenging in certain dock setups.

Heat Management: Ensuring adequate airflow or adding heatsinks is advisable to maintain performance.

4. Solidigm (SK hynix) P44 Pro, 1TB – 119,000 KRW; 2TB – 187,000 KRW, PCIe 4.0

Pros:

• High Performance: Features a 2GB DDR4 DRAM cache, enhancing speed and responsiveness.

• Competitive Pricing: Offers a good balance between cost and performance.

Cons:

• Brand Transition: Solidigm’s consumer market presence is uncertain due to potential discontinuation.

Heat Management: Specific thermal data is limited, but no widespread reports of overheating have been noted.

5. Samsung PM9A1, 1TB – 110,450 KRW, PCIe 4.0

Pros:

• Strong Performance: Equipped with a 1GB DDR4 cache, ensuring efficient data handling.

• Cost-Effective: Offers Samsung’s reliability at a lower price point.

Cons:

• Compatibility Issues: Some users have reported incompatibility with certain systems.

Heat Management: Thermal performance is generally stable, but monitoring is recommended in confined spaces.

6. SK hynix Platinum P41, 1TB – 113,490 KRW; 2TB – 196,240 KRW, PCIe 4.0

Pros:

• Exceptional Performance: Boasts a 2GB DDR4 cache, providing high-speed data processing.

• Future-Proof: Utilizes PCIe 4.0 technology, ensuring longevity in performance standards.

Cons:

• Increased Heat: Reports suggest it runs hotter than its predecessor, the P31.

Heat Management: Implementing effective cooling solutions is advisable to maintain optimal performance.

7. KLEVV CRAS C930, 1TB – 104,190 KRW; 2TB – 174,330 KRW, PCIe 4.0

Pros:

• High Performance: Features a 2GB DDR4 cache and utilizes the InnoGrit IG5236 controller, known for robust performance.

• Reasonable Pricing: Offers a good balance between cost and advanced features.

Cons:

• Thermal Uncertainty: Limited data on heat output; users should monitor temperatures, especially in enclosed setups.

Heat Management: Considering additional cooling measures may be beneficial to prevent potential thermal issues.

Final Recommendations:

• Performance & Reliability: SK hynix Platinum P41 stands out for its exceptional performance, though attention to cooling is necessary.

• Budget-Friendly: KLEVV CRAS C930 offers a compelling mix of features at a reasonable price, with the caveat of monitoring thermal performance.

• Existing Familiarity: Since you already own a Seagate FireCuda 530R, adding another could ensure consistency in performance and management.

Given the thermal considerations of your docking setup, prioritizing SSDs with efficient heat management is crucial to maintain optimal performance and longevity.

필자

damn. could you do the chart plz

피티

I’ve compiled a detailed SSD comparison chart with all the key specifications, including performance, heat output, DRAM presence, endurance (TBW), and pricing. Let me know if you need further refinements or additional insights! 🚀

...중략

I’ve updated the SSD comparison chart to split 1TB and 2TB models into separate rows and added a KRW per GB column for easier price efficiency comparison. Let me know if you need further refinements! 🚀

필자

IDK what to choose! damn

피티

Yeah, I get it—there’s no perfect answer since every SSD has trade-offs. But let’s narrow it down based on your actual needs and setup constraints.

1️⃣ Absolute Best Performance (PCIe 4.0, High-Endurance, DRAM, Good Price)

👉 SK hynix Platinum P41 (2TB) - 196,240 KRW (~96 KRW/GB)

• Why? Fast, 2GB DRAM, PCIe 4.0, 1200TBW, great balance of speed, endurance, and cache.

• Downside? Runs hotter than P31 (~65°C+). Need some airflow in the WD D50 dock.

Alternative: Solidigm P44 Pro (2TB, 187,000 KRW)

• Slightly cheaper, same DRAM (2GB DDR4), similar performance. But Solidigm is phasing out in the consumer market.

🏆 Best for: If you want high endurance, DRAM, and future-proofing. Works great unless heat is a big concern.

2️⃣ Best for Low Heat & Stable Performance

👉 SK hynix Gold P31 (1TB) - 141,000 KRW (~137 KRW/GB)

• Why? Coolest SSD (~40°C max), good endurance (750TBW), has 0.5GB DRAM, still fast enough for most workloads.

• Downside? PCIe 3.0 (not as future-proof), 1TB might feel small later.

🏆 Best for: If you prioritize low temperatures & reliability over raw speed. If 1TB is enough, this is a rock-solid choice.

3️⃣ Best Budget PCIe 4.0 (Cheapest 2TB Option)

👉 KLEVV CRAS C910 (2TB) - 150,800 KRW (~74 KRW/GB)

• Why? Cheapest PCIe 4.0, acceptable endurance (~600-800TBW), decent speeds.

• Downside? DRAM-less, high temps (~65°C+), slower random writes.

🏆 Best for: If you just want the cheapest 2TB PCIe 4.0 and can manage the heat.

4️⃣ Best “Middle Ground” with DRAM

👉 KLEVV CRAS C930 (2TB) - 174,330 KRW (~85 KRW/GB)

• Why? PCIe 4.0, 2GB DDR4 DRAM, good endurance (1200TBW), decent cooling.

• Downside? Not as well-tested as P41/P44 Pro.

🏆 Best for: If you want DRAM at a mid-range price and don’t trust Solidigm.

5️⃣ What to AVOID

❌ WD Blue SN580 (2TB, 155,000 KRW) – DRAM-less, overheats (~65°C+), not great for sustained workloads. Only good for budget buyers who don’t care about endurance.

❌ Samsung 980 (1TB, 106,000 KRW) – DRAM-less, no longer competitive at this price.

❌ Samsung PM9A1 (1TB, 110,450 KRW) – Incompatibility issues + runs hot.

💡 Final Pick Based on Your Setup

Since you’re using the WD D50 dock, heat might be a problem. So I’d go with one of these:

🔥 Want max performance & don’t care about some heat? → SK hynix Platinum P41 (2TB)

❄️ Want cool & stable operation? → SK hynix Gold P31 (1TB)

💰 Want a budget PCIe 4.0 SSD? → KLEVV CRAS C910 (2TB)

⚖️ Want balanced DRAM + performance? → KLEVV CRAS C930 (2TB)

TL;DR:

• If you can deal with heat, P41 (2TB) is best overall.

• If heat is a concern, P31 (1TB) is coolest & most stable.

• If you want cheap PCIe 4.0, CRAS C910 (2TB) is cheapest.

• If you want PCIe 4.0 + DRAM without breaking the bank, CRAS C930 (2TB) is balanced.

Which one feels right for you? 🚀

필자

What about Crucial T500?

피티

Crucial T500 (1TB: 119,000 KRW / 2TB: 197,990 KRW) – PCIe 4.0

🔥 Balanced choice for performance, endurance, and cooling

• Pros:

• Fast (7,300MB/s read, 6,900MB/s write)

• 1GB DRAM cache

• Good endurance (1,200TBW for 2TB)

• Better thermal control than some PCIe 4.0 SSDs (~55-60°C under load)

• Trusted brand (Micron)

• Cons:

• Slightly higher price compared to similar-performing SSDs (P41, P44 Pro)

• Not as widely tested for long-term reliability as SK Hynix drives

• Still gets warm under heavy loads (though better than P41 and C910)

Where Does It Fit?

🏆 Best for:

• If you want a PCIe 4.0 SSD with DRAM that doesn’t overheat much.

• If you want a balance between endurance, cooling, and performance.

• If you trust Micron over KLEVV or Solidigm.

🔥 Crucial T500 (2TB) is comparable to the P41 but runs slightly cooler.

❄️ Better thermals than P41 but not as cool as P31.

How It Compares to Other Options

SSDSpeed (R/W MB/s)DRAM?Avg. Temp (°C)TBW (2TB)Price (2TB)

SK Hynix P41	7,000 / 6,500	✅ 2GB DDR4	~65°C+	1,200TBW	196,240 KRW
Solidigm P44 Pro	7,000 / 6,500	✅ 2GB DDR4	~55-60°C	1,200TBW	187,000 KRW
Crucial T500	7,300 / 6,900	✅ 1GB DDR4	~55-60°C	1,200TBW	197,990 KRW
KLEVV CRAS C930	7,400 / 6,800	✅ 2GB DDR4	~60°C+	1,200TBW	174,330 KRW
KLEVV CRAS C910	5,000 / 4,200	❌ No DRAM	~65°C+	~600-800TBW (Est.)	150,800 KRW

Final Verdict on Crucial T500

✔ If you want high performance but worry about heat, it’s a solid choice.

✔ If you trust Crucial/Micron more than SK Hynix, it’s a great alternative to P41.

✖ If you want the absolute best cooling, P31 is still the coolest (~40°C).

✖ If you want the cheapest PCIe 4.0 SSD, C910 or C930 are better for price per GB.

💡 My Recommendation

• If you want a balanced PCIe 4.0 SSD with good cooling and performance, get Crucial T500 (2TB).

• If you don’t mind extra heat for the best performance, P41 (2TB) or P44 Pro (2TB) are better.

• If price is a bigger concern, C930 (2TB) is cheaper with 2GB DRAM.

📌 Final Picks Based on Your Situation

• 🔥 If you want max performance, even if it runs warm: SK Hynix P41 (2TB)

• ❄️ If you want something that won’t overheat but is still high-performance: Crucial T500 (2TB)

• 💰 If you want the cheapest PCIe 4.0 SSD with DRAM: KLEVV CRAS C930 (2TB)

• ♨️ If you want the coolest SSD: SK Hynix P31 (1TB)

📢 If heat isn’t a big issue, T500 is an excellent choice.

It’s cooler than P41 but still high-performance and durable. If you’re okay with the slightly higher price than P41/P44 Pro, go for it. 🚀

필자

KLEVV CRAS C930, what was the heat situation again?

피티

The KLEVV CRAS C930 has moderate-to-high heat output under load but is not the worst among PCIe 4.0 SSDs. Based on tests and available user reports:

🌡️ Heat Situation for KLEVV CRAS C930

• Idle Temperature: ~40-45°C (normal for PCIe 4.0 SSDs)

• Load Temperature: ~60-70°C under heavy sustained workloads (e.g., large file transfers, benchmarks)

• Thermal Throttling Risk: Possible if airflow is poor (like inside an enclosed dock).

• Compared to Other SSDs:

• Runs slightly cooler than P41 (~65-70°C)

• Similar to Crucial T500 (~60-65°C)

• Hotter than SK Hynix P31 (~40°C under load)

Will It Work Well in Your WD Black D50 Dock?

• In a well-ventilated setup: Fine, won’t thermal throttle.

• In an enclosed, poor-airflow dock (like D50): Might run hot (~65°C+)

• If you’re worried about heat: Consider adding a small thermal pad or heatsink inside the dock (if possible).

• If your dock has airflow issues: T500 or P31 would be better for temperature control.

Final Verdict on C930’s Heat

✔ Good performance for the price, but it does get warm.

✔ Should be okay in a dock with moderate airflow.

✖ Not the coolest choice—P31 or even T500 are better for thermals.

✖ If you expect sustained high writes, look for better-cooled options.

So if you’re okay with slightly warm but not extreme heat, C930 is fine. Otherwise, P31 (coolest) or T500 (balanced) are better picks. 🚀

필자

My Gaming PC has

- PCIe 4.0 NVME slot - Seagate Firecuda 530R with heatsink, 1TB

- PCIe 3.0 NVME slot - Sk hynix P31, 500GB

- PCIe 3.0 Normal Slot - Sk hynix P31, 500GB with an adaptor (PCIe to NVMe)

Current Usage

- Seagate: 800GB out of 1TB

- Two P31s: 800GB out of 1TB (no JBOD nor RAID, just manual management due to TRIM or Cache issue that may occur)

My Mac mini has a

- External NVMe case (NVME to USB 3,2) - Asus TUF thingy without LED,

SSD - SK Hynix P31, 500GB.

Usage: 300GB outta 500GB (VM disks, Games, Video files)

WD D50 Dock (in transit)

- Empty slot for NVMe SSD

IDK What to choose, put whom to where, jejus there're too many variables.

피티

Alright, let’s optimize your SSD setup based on performance, heat, and best placement for your gaming PC, Mac mini, and upcoming WD D50 dock.

Step 1: What Do You Need?

1. More storage in your gaming PC (FireCuda 530R is almost full, P31s are at 80% capacity).

2. A good SSD for the WD D50 dock (heat is a factor here).

3. An optimal layout that balances performance across both machines.

Step 2: Choosing the Right SSD(s)

SSD ChoiceBest Use Case

Crucial T500 (2TB)	Best for your WD D50 Dock (Balanced performance + good thermals)
SK hynix P41 (2TB)	Best for your gaming PC (Fastest, but runs hotter)
KLEVV CRAS C930 (2TB)	Alternative for WD D50 Dock (Similar to T500, but slightly cheaper)
SK Hynix P31 (1TB)	For external Mac mini SSD upgrade (Coolest option, avoids heat issues in USB case)

Step 3: Where to Put Each SSD?

Option 1: Balanced Performance + Best Thermals

DeviceSSD to UseWhy?

Gaming PC (PCIe 4.0 slot)	SK Hynix P41 (2TB)	Fastest NVMe upgrade, future-proof
Gaming PC (PCIe 3.0 slot)	Keep SK Hynix P31 (500GB)	Still good, low power & heat
WD Black D50 Dock	Crucial T500 (2TB)	Good mix of performance & heat management
Mac Mini (External NVMe Case)	SK Hynix P31 (1TB)	Coolest SSD, best for USB 3.2

✅ Pros:

• P41 (2TB) gives your gaming PC a massive upgrade with max speed.

• T500 (2TB) keeps the dock cooler than P41 or C910.

• P31 (1TB) in USB case ensures low heat for Mac Mini.

❌ Cons:

• P41 (2TB) runs hotter (might need a heatsink if your gaming PC has airflow issues).

• Slightly higher cost than CRAS C930 setup.

Option 2: Budget-Friendly But Still Good

DeviceSSD to UseWhy?

Gaming PC (PCIe 4.0 slot)	KLEVV CRAS C930 (2TB)	Cheaper PCIe 4.0 alternative to P41
Gaming PC (PCIe 3.0 slot)	Keep SK Hynix P31 (500GB)	Efficient, still solid
WD Black D50 Dock	SK Hynix P41 (2TB)	If you can handle heat in the dock
Mac Mini (External NVMe Case)	SK Hynix P31 (1TB)	Coolest SSD for USB case

✅ Pros:

• Saves ~20,000-30,000 KRW compared to Option 1.

• C930 still gives great performance in gaming PC.

• P41 in dock is powerful (but hotter).

❌ Cons:

• Dock SSD runs hotter (P41 is not as thermally efficient as T500 or P31).

• **C930 in gaming PC is slightly slower than P41.

Step 4: Final Recommendation

If you care about performance most → Option 1 (P41 in gaming PC, T500 in dock).

If you care about price & still want solid performance → Option 2 (C930 in gaming PC, P41 in dock).

💡 Extra Notes:

• If your dock gets too hot with P41, you can swap it with P31 or T500 later.

• If your Mac mini storage is enough, you don’t need to upgrade it right now.

Which one feels right for you? 🚀

필자

nah dude I've got three p31 (two in gaming pc, one in Asus TUF NVME case) with 500GB capacity, not 1TB.

피티

Got it! You have three SK Hynix P31 (all 500GB), not 1TB. That means your Mac mini’s external SSD is also just 500GB, which could become a bottleneck if your VM disks, games, and video files keep growing.

Revised Storage Plan Based on Your Actual SSDs

Since your P31 drives are all 500GB, we need to:

1. Give your gaming PC more storage (your FireCuda 530R is nearly full).

2. Pick the right SSD for the WD D50 dock (heat matters here).

3. Improve external storage for your Mac mini (if necessary).

💡 Best SSD Choices Based on Your Setup

SSD ChoiceWhere to Install It?Why?

SK Hynix P41 (2TB)	Gaming PC (PCIe 4.0 slot)	Best performance for games & future-proofing.
Crucial T500 (2TB)	WD D50 Dock	High performance, but runs cooler than P41.
KLEVV CRAS C930 (2TB)	Alternative for WD D50 Dock	Cheaper but still has DRAM.
SK Hynix P31 (500GB)	Mac Mini External NVMe Case (Keep It)	If 500GB is enough, no need to upgrade now.

📌 Where to Put Each SSD?

Option 1: Best Performance Setup

DeviceSSD to UseWhy?

Gaming PC (PCIe 4.0 slot)	SK Hynix P41 (2TB)	Massive upgrade, max PCIe 4.0 speed.
Gaming PC (PCIe 3.0 slot)	Keep SK Hynix P31 (500GB)	Efficient & runs cool.
Gaming PC (PCIe-to-NVMe adapter slot)	Keep SK Hynix P31 (500GB)	Same as above.
WD D50 Dock	Crucial T500 (2TB)	Good thermals, avoids overheating issues in dock.
Mac Mini External NVMe Case	Keep SK Hynix P31 (500GB)	No upgrade needed unless you run out of space.

✅ Pros:

• Best speed for your gaming PC.

• Dock SSD won’t overheat (Crucial T500 is well-balanced).

• No unnecessary spending on Mac mini’s storage unless needed.

❌ Cons:

• P41 in gaming PC runs hotter (~65°C) but should be fine with case airflow.

• Mac Mini stays at 500GB—if that fills up, you’ll need a bigger external SSD later.

Option 2: Budget-Friendly Setup

DeviceSSD to UseWhy?

Gaming PC (PCIe 4.0 slot)	KLEVV CRAS C930 (2TB)	Cheaper than P41, but still PCIe 4.0.
Gaming PC (PCIe 3.0 slot)	Keep SK Hynix P31 (500GB)	Efficient & cool.
Gaming PC (PCIe-to-NVMe adapter slot)	Keep SK Hynix P31 (500GB)	No need to change.
WD D50 Dock	SK Hynix P41 (2TB)	Powerful but runs hotter (watch thermals in dock).
Mac Mini External NVMe Case	Keep SK Hynix P31 (500GB)	Only upgrade if you need more space.

✅ Pros:

• Saves ~20,000-30,000 KRW compared to Option 1.

• C930 still gives solid PCIe 4.0 performance in gaming PC.

• P41 in dock is powerful (but warmer).

❌ Cons:

• Dock might get hot if airflow is bad.

• C930 is slightly slower than P41, but still fine for gaming.

Final Pick Based on Your Needs

• 🔥 Want max performance for your gaming PC? → Option 1 (P41 in gaming PC, T500 in dock).

• 💰 Want to save money but still get solid performance? → Option 2 (C930 in gaming PC, P41 in dock).

📢 If your dock gets too hot with P41, you can swap it with P31 later.

Since you’re not upgrading Mac Mini yet, you can monitor its storage and get another SSD when necessary.

Which one feels right? 🚀

필자

totally forgot that I ordered one another NVME external case to replace Asus TUF, and going to carry Asus TUF external case for portable storage.

- 5600X Gaming PC (B550M)

One PCIe 4 NVME slot

One PCIe 3 NVMe Slot

One PCIe 3 NVMe Slot (with an adaptor)

- Mac Mini

One NVMe Case (HIKSEMI PCIe to USB C)

- Macbook Pro

One Dock (WD black D50)

One NVMe Case (Asus TUF)

SSDs I've got (excluding under 500GB ones since they are not eligeble for uses in this case)

- One Firecuda 530R with Heatsink (Windows OS + storage)

- Three Hynix P31 500GB (All for storage only)

So, Six slots vs Four SSDs. Need to buy two more SSD sticks

POssible comb:

5600x PC

- Firecuda 1TB + single 1TB or 2TB SSD (and remove extension for NVME)

Mac Mini

- HIKSEMI: Keep 500GB P31 (gonna expand only if needed)

Macbook pro

- Dock: put 500GB P31

- Asus: put 500GB P31

Hmm... I can remove the PCIe to NVMe adaptor (which uses reiser cable that interferes airflow and being an eyesore)

Should I treat myself with 2TB for more breathingroom or just keep 1TB.

In either case, then which?

that is the questiuon.

피티

Alright, let’s break this down and finalize your SSD purchases & placements.

💡 Summary of Your Updated Setup & Needs

✅ Available Slots: 6

✅ Currently Owned SSDs: 4

✅ Need to Buy: 2 SSDs

✅ Goal: Maximize storage, optimize performance, avoid heating issues.

📌 Where to Place Each SSD?

🔥 5600X Gaming PC (B550M)

SlotSSD to UseWhy?

PCIe 4.0 Slot	FireCuda 530R (1TB)	Fastest SSD, keep it as Windows OS + games.
PCIe 3.0 Slot	New 2TB SSD (Buy One)	Storage upgrade, consolidates space.
PCIe 3.0 Adapter Slot	REMOVE the adapter	Improves airflow, reduces clutter.

✅ Result: More storage, better airflow, no unnecessary adapters.

🍏 Mac Mini (External Storage)

SlotSSD to UseWhy?

HIKSEMI NVMe Case (USB-C)

SK Hynix P31 (500GB)

Keep it for now, upgrade only if needed.

✅ Result: No immediate upgrade needed, keeps it simple.

💻 MacBook Pro (Dock & External SSDs)

SlotSSD to UseWhy?

WD Black D50 Dock	SK Hynix P31 (500GB)	Good for non-heat-sensitive tasks.
Asus TUF NVMe Case (USB-C)	SK Hynix P31 (500GB)	Portable storage.

✅ Result: Balanced usage for work & portable needs.

📌 Now, What SSD(s) Should You Buy?

You need one SSD for your gaming PC and one for the WD Black D50 dock.

Option 1: Buy Two 1TB SSDs (Cheaper, but less future-proof)

SSDWhere to Install It?Price

SK Hynix Platinum P41 (1TB)	Gaming PC (PCIe 3.0 slot)	113,490 KRW
Crucial T500 (1TB)	WD Black D50 Dock	119,000 KRW

✅ Pros:

• Saves ~80,000 KRW vs 2TB option.

• Good speed for gaming PC.

• Balanced thermals for WD D50 Dock.

❌ Cons:

• Less breathing room (1TB might feel cramped later).

• You may need another SSD upgrade sooner.

Option 2: Buy One 2TB SSD (Best Future-Proof Choice)

SSDWhere to Install It?Price

SK Hynix Platinum P41 (2TB)	Gaming PC (PCIe 3.0 slot)	196,240 KRW
Move Existing SK Hynix P31 (500GB) to WD D50 Dock	WD Black D50 Dock	Free (Reuse Existing P31)

✅ Pros:

• More breathing room (2TB for gaming).

• Fewer SSDs to manage (better organization).

• Less cost in the long run (won’t need another upgrade soon).

❌ Cons:

• Costs ~80,000 KRW more now.

• WD Dock SSD isn’t upgraded (but does it really need to be?).

📌 FINAL RECOMMENDATION

If you want the best long-term setup:

✅ Buy ONE 2TB SSD (SK Hynix Platinum P41 - 196,240 KRW)

✅ Remove PCIe to NVMe adapter from your PC (better airflow).

✅ Move a 500GB P31 to the WD Black D50 dock.

🔥 This keeps things simple, avoids future SSD clutter, and ensures performance.

💰 If you want to save money but can live with less space:

✅ Buy TWO 1TB SSDs (P41 + T500)

✅ Still remove the PCIe to NVMe adapter from your PC

📢 Verdict: If I were you, I’d go with the single 2TB SSD (P41) option. It’s cleaner, simpler, and avoids future upgrades. 🚀

필자

Got it. Since i have a backup plan for my gaming pc (put the adaptor back when the storage pressure goes up and becomes in need) I can simply throw any new SSD then so, for now, 1TB sounds good (less stressful financially)|

What about these optiones?

- KLEVV CRAS C710 - 1TB 71,770

- KLEVV CRAS C715 - 1TB 73,290

- WD Blue SN580 - 1TB 77,530

- KLEVV CRAS C910 - 1TB 77722KRW

- WD Blue SN5000 1TB 90,460

- Micron 2200 1TB 93.790KRW (DDR4 1GB ram, PCIe 3.0, Ah, the IO speed is not good (3000MB/s Reading but 1575MB/s for writing)

- WD Black SN770 1TB 96,510 (Check for any overheating issues)

- HP EX950 - 1TB 97900 KRW, DDR 3 (??) 1gb, pcie 3.0, Heulette Packerd makes SSD??? I dont think so, who is the supplier (or OE manufacture) of this? this is an intriguing product.

- KLEVV C930 - 1TB 104,190

→ Now the 이돈씨 (이 돈이면 씨발) begins.

피티

I understand you’re considering a 1TB SSD to expand your storage while keeping costs manageable. Here’s a detailed comparison of the options you’ve listed:

1. KLEVV CRAS C710 – 1TB (71,770 KRW)

• Interface: PCIe 3.0 x4

• Performance: Up to 2,100 MB/s read, 1,650 MB/s write

• Cache: DRAM-less

• Pros:

• Affordable pricing

• Suitable for general use and large file transfers

• Cons:

• Lower performance compared to other options

• Lacks DRAM, which may affect performance in certain tasks

• User Feedback: Considered a reliable workhorse for day-to-day tasks without breaking the bank.

2. KLEVV CRAS C715 – 1TB (73,290 KRW)

• Interface: PCIe 3.0 x4

• Performance: Similar to C710

• Cache: Likely DRAM-less

• Pros:

• Slightly better performance than C710

• Affordable

• Cons:

• Performance still lags behind higher-end models

• Lacks DRAM

3. WD Blue SN580 – 1TB (77,530 KRW)

• Interface: PCIe 4.0 x4

• Performance: Up to 4,150 MB/s read, 4,000 MB/s write

• Cache: DRAM-less

• Pros:

• High read and write speeds for the price

• Good value for a PCIe 4.0 drive

• Cons:

• Lacks DRAM, which may impact performance in specific scenarios

• Potential thermal issues under heavy load

4. KLEVV CRAS C910 – 1TB (77,722 KRW)

• Interface: PCIe 3.0 x4

• Performance: Up to 3,400 MB/s read, 3,100 MB/s write

• Cache: DRAM-less

• Pros:

• Competitive pricing

• Decent performance for general use

• Cons:

• Lacks DRAM

• Performance may degrade under sustained workloads

• Review: Praised for delivering more speed than advertised and offering excellent price-to-performance ratio.

5. WD Blue SN5000 – 1TB (90,460 KRW)

• Note: Specific details on this model are limited.

6. Micron 2200 – 1TB (93,790 KRW)

• Interface: PCIe 3.0 x4

• Performance: Up to 3,000 MB/s read, 1,575 MB/s write

• Cache: 1GB DDR4

• Pros:

• Includes DRAM cache

• Cons:

• Lower write speeds compared to competitors

7. WD Black SN770 – 1TB (96,510 KRW)

• Interface: PCIe 4.0 x4

• Performance: Up to 5,150 MB/s read, 4,900 MB/s write

• Cache: DRAM-less

• Pros:

• High performance for a DRAM-less drive

• Good value for PCIe 4.0 speeds

• Cons:

• Lacks DRAM

• Potential thermal throttling under heavy workloads

8. HP EX950 – 1TB (97,900 KRW)

• Interface: PCIe 3.0 x4

• Performance: Up to 3,500 MB/s read, 2,900 MB/s write

• Cache: 1GB DRAM

• Pros:

• High performance with DRAM cache

• Good endurance ratings

• Cons:

• Performance may degrade as the drive fills up

• Potential thermal issues under heavy load

• Review: Noted for excellent high-speed read-write performance, suitable for gaming and content creation.

9. KLEVV CRAS C930 – 1TB (104,190 KRW)

• Interface: PCIe 4.0 x4

• Performance: Up to 7,400 MB/s read, 6,800 MB/s write

• Cache: 2GB DDR4

• Pros:

• High-end performance with DRAM cache

• Suitable for demanding applications

• Cons:

• Higher price point

• May require adequate

필자

what is your opinion?

피티

Since you’re budget-conscious but also performance-aware, I’ll break it down into best value, best balance, and best performance.

🏆 Best Bang for the Buck (Under 80,000 KRW)

🎯 WD Blue SN580 (1TB) – 77,530 KRW

🔥 Why?

• PCIe 4.0 at a very low price.

• Read: 4,150 MB/s | Write: 4,000 MB/s → Faster than most PCIe 3.0 drives.

• Better sustained write speeds than most DRAM-less SSDs.

❌ Downsides?

• DRAM-less, so performance may suffer under heavy loads.

• Might run warm under load.

🛠 Use case?

• Gaming PC storage (but not OS)

• Mac mini external storage (if you upgrade later)

• General file storage, game installs, and workloads that don’t need heavy cache.

📝 Verdict: If you want the most value per KRW, this is the best option for under 80,000 KRW.

⚖️ Best Balanced Option (80,000 - 100,000 KRW)

🎯 WD Black SN770 (1TB) – 96,510 KRW

🔥 Why?

• PCIe 4.0 (5,150 MB/s read, 4,900 MB/s write)

• One of the fastest DRAM-less SSDs (better than SN580).

• Western Digital is generally reliable.

• Better heat management than SN580.

❌ Downsides?

• Still DRAM-less, but better than most.

• Could get warm under heavy writes.

🛠 Use case?

• Gaming PC storage for fast loading times.

• WD D50 Dock SSD (if you don’t do crazy workloads).

• Mac mini external storage (future expansion).

📝 Verdict: A bit more expensive, but much faster than cheaper options.

💡 If you can stretch your budget to ~95,000 KRW, get this over SN580.

🚀 Best Performance SSD (If You Can Stretch to 100,000+ KRW)

🎯 KLEVV CRAS C930 (1TB) – 104,190 KRW

🔥 Why?

• PCIe 4.0 (7,400 MB/s read, 6,800 MB/s write) – INSANELY FAST.

• 2GB DDR4 DRAM → Actually has DRAM, unlike SN580/SN770.

• Good endurance (1200TBW for 2TB version, so 600TBW for 1TB).

❌ Downsides?

• Costs more.

• May run hot under load (but still better than DRAM-less drives).

🛠 Use case?

• Gaming PC (best speed and cache).

• Mac mini expansion later.

• WD D50 Dock (if you’re doing heavier workloads).

📝 Verdict: If you want the best SSD without breaking the bank, this is the fastest, best-cached choice under 110,000 KRW.

🔮 Final Recommendation (Based on Your Needs)

BudgetBest SSDWhy?

🔥 Under 80,000 KRW	WD Blue SN580 (1TB)	Best budget PCIe 4.0, fast, but DRAM-less.
⚖️ Best balance (~95,000 KRW)	WD Black SN770 (1TB)	Faster than SN580, good for gaming, but still DRAM-less.
🚀 Best performance (~104,000 KRW)	KLEVV CRAS C930 (1TB)	DRAM, insane speed, best long-term choice.

💡 If you want to save money, get SN580.

💡 If you want longevity and better cache, get C930.

💡 If you want a middle-ground choice, SN770 is perfect.

📢 Final Answer? If I were you, I’d go for WD Black SN770 or C930, depending on your budget flexibility. 🚀

필자

what WD BLACK is DRAM-less?? wow that is interesting

피티

Yep, WD Black SN770 is DRAM-less, which is surprising given that WD Black SSDs were traditionally high-end models with DRAM. This shift aligns with cost-cutting trends in consumer SSDs, especially since modern SSD controllers + HMB (Host Memory Buffer) in NVMe 1.4+ help offset DRAM loss.

🔎 Why Did WD Make SN770 DRAM-less?

• Cost Reduction → Cheaper to manufacture, yet still delivers PCIe 4.0 speeds.

• HMB (Host Memory Buffer) → Uses system RAM instead of dedicated DRAM.

• Improved Controllers → Newer SSD controllers handle caching more efficiently.

🔥 The Shock Factor? Despite being DRAM-less, the SN770 is actually fast.

• Seq. Read: 5,150 MB/s

• Seq. Write: 4,900 MB/s

• Random Read: 740K IOPS

• Random Write: 800K IOPS

🚀 It outperforms some DRAM SSDs in sequential workloads, but HMB-based DRAM-less SSDs still struggle with heavy sustained writes and mixed workloads.

WD Black SSDs: Which Have DRAM?

ModelPCIe GenDRAM?Read/Write (MB/s)HMB?

WD Black SN770	PCIe 4.0	❌ No DRAM	5,150 / 4,900	✅ Yes
WD Black SN850X	PCIe 4.0	✅ Yes (DRAM)	7,300 / 6,600	❌ No
WD Black SN750 SE	PCIe 4.0	❌ No DRAM	3,600 / 2,830	✅ Yes
WD Black SN750 (Non-SE)	PCIe 3.0	✅ Yes (DRAM)	3,470 / 3,000	❌ No

🧐 Should You Care About DRAM in SN770?

• If you’re gaming or doing normal storage tasks, SN770 is totally fine.

• If you’re doing heavy workloads (video editing, sustained writes, large databases, VM usage, etc.), a DRAM SSD like KLEVV CRAS C930 or SN850X is a better choice.

📢 Final Takeaway

• SN770 is a solid DRAM-less SSD, but it’s NOT a true high-end WD Black SSD like the SN850X.

• If you want a DRAM SSD in the same price range, KLEVV CRAS C930 (1TB, 104,190 KRW) is a better option.

• If you just want a fast, cost-effective SSD, SN770 is still great.

🛠 Bottom line: If you’re okay with DRAM-less performance and want a reliable PCIe 4.0 drive, SN770 is fine. If you want the “true” WD Black experience, skip SN770 and go for SN850X (which has DRAM). 🚀

필자

what? there are SSDs that does not support HMB???

피티

Yes! Not all SSDs support HMB (Host Memory Buffer)—even some with DRAM-less designs lack HMB, which can cripple performance in specific workloads.

🔎 Why Do Some SSDs Lack HMB?

1. Older NVMe Versions → NVMe 1.2 and below don’t support HMB.

2. Firmware & Controller Limitations → Even with NVMe 1.3+, some manufacturers don’t enable HMB.

3. Some DRAM SSDs Don’t Need It → High-end SSDs with built-in DRAM caches don’t need to rely on HMB.

4. Cost-Cutting or Entry-Level Drives → Some budget SSDs skip HMB entirely, resulting in bad random read/write performance.

📌 Examples of SSDs WITHOUT HMB

SSD ModelPCIe GenDRAM?HMB?

WD Black SN750 (Non-SE)	PCIe 3.0	✅ Yes	❌ No
WD Black SN850X	PCIe 4.0	✅ Yes	❌ No
Crucial P2 (QLC)	PCIe 3.0	❌ No DRAM	❌ No HMB
Samsung 970 EVO Plus	PCIe 3.0	✅ Yes	❌ No
Samsung 980 (Non-PRO)	PCIe 3.0	❌ No DRAM	✅ Yes

🚨 Biggest Offender? Crucial P2 (QLC, DRAM-less, No HMB).

🔻 It has TERRIBLE random performance due to a lack of DRAM and HMB.

🔻 Samsung 970 EVO Plus also lacks HMB but has DRAM, so it’s still fine.

📢 Why Does HMB Matter?

• HMB acts as a substitute for DRAM.

• Without DRAM or HMB, an SSD must fetch metadata from NAND directly, causing huge latency spikes.

• This mostly affects random read/write performance, especially on small file operations.

🚀 SSDs That DO Support HMB

SSD ModelPCIe GenDRAM?HMB?

WD Black SN770	PCIe 4.0	❌ No DRAM	✅ Yes
WD Black SN750 SE	PCIe 4.0	❌ No DRAM	✅ Yes
Samsung 980 (Non-PRO)	PCIe 3.0	❌ No DRAM	✅ Yes
Crucial P3 (TLC)	PCIe 3.0	❌ No DRAM	✅ Yes

💡 The best DRAM-less SSDs use HMB to compensate.

💀 The worst DRAM-less SSDs lack both DRAM and HMB, making them painfully slow in some tasks.

🛠 TL;DR: If Buying a DRAM-less SSD…

✅ Make sure it has HMB (like SN770, SN580, or Samsung 980).

❌ Avoid DRAM-less SSDs without HMB (Crucial P2 is an example of a disaster SSD).

HMB + a good controller can make DRAM-less SSDs usable, but without both, random performance takes a nosedive. 🚀

필자

you know what, what's the deal if I not choose THE BEST option? Whatever dude there are so so many variables to consider.

피티

Yeah, I get it. Too many variables, too much analysis, and at some point, it just feels like overkill.

💡 The Realistic Approach

Instead of theoretical best, just pick something that is:

✅ Decently fast

✅ Reliable

✅ Affordable

✅ Not garbage

💰 Just Buy This and Move On:

🎯 WD Black SN770 (1TB) – 96,510 KRW

🎯 WD Blue SN580 (1TB) – 77,530 KRW (if you want to save money)

• Good enough performance.

• No catastrophic failures.

• No need to overthink.

• No regret purchase.

Done. Just grab one of these and enjoy your life. 🚀

필자

My choice was C910 1TB. Soz. Anyways, Could you check if Asus tuf B550M's M.2 heatsink have thermal sticker or not?

피티

Yes, the ASUS TUF B550M-PLUS motherboard’s M.2 heatsink includes a pre-applied thermal pad. This pad ensures effective heat transfer from the SSD to the heatsink, maintaining optimal operating temperatures for consistent performance and reliability.

Installation Tips:

• Pre-Applied Thermal Pad: The M.2 heatsink comes with a thermal pad already attached. Before securing the heatsink over your SSD, ensure you remove any protective film from the thermal pad to facilitate proper heat transfer.

• SSD Label Consideration: Some M.2 SSDs have labels that act as heat spreaders. It’s generally recommended to leave these labels on, as they assist in heat dissipation. The combination of the SSD’s label and the motherboard’s thermal pad typically provides efficient cooling.

Replacing the Thermal Pad:

If you need to replace the thermal pad in the future, it’s advisable to use one of similar thickness and quality to maintain effective heat dissipation. High-quality thermal pads, such as those from Fujipoly, are available, though they can be more expensive.

Note: Always handle thermal pads with care during installation or replacement to ensure they remain intact and function effectively.

...

다른대화...

...

필자

do you remember the ssd situation? I've got the ssd and the enclosure, ssd works fine (goes hot under heavy load though, 67 degrees with heatsink from the motherboard) and now I need to find a way to protect this portable nvme drive. It uses APFS with Guid Partition Table, and by using this filesystem itself kinda confuses people in Korea (not that much of people uses apple's mac) but it is definately not something can be called as a safety measure. What can I do for people from reading the contents?

피티

Yes, I remember your SSD situation—you got the KLEVV CRAS C910 (1TB), installed it in an external NVMe enclosure, and now you’re looking for a way to protect its data since just using APFS + GUID Partition Table isn’t enough as a security measure.

🔐 Security Measures for Portable NVMe SSD

Here are three levels of security depending on how much protection you want:

🚀 Level 1: Basic Protection (Easy to Implement)

1️⃣ Use APFS Encryption (Native macOS Encryption)

• How?

• Open Disk Utility → Right-click your SSD → Encrypt.

• Pros:

✅ Easy to use

✅ Uses AES-XTS encryption (256-bit)

✅ Works seamlessly with macOS

• Cons:

❌ Windows/Linux can’t read encrypted APFS (without third-party tools).

❌ If someone brute-forces the password, they can access the data.

👉 Good for: Protecting against casual access but not ideal if stolen.

🛡️ Level 2: Stronger Protection (For Sensitive Data)

2️⃣ Use macOS FileVault + Password-Protected Volumes

• How?

• Open Disk Utility → Select APFS → Erase & Format with APFS (Encrypted)

• Set a strong password.

• Pros:

✅ Even if stolen, brute-forcing is extremely difficult.

✅ Stronger than just APFS encryption alone.

• Cons:

❌ If you forget the password, data is gone forever.

❌ Windows/Linux cannot access the drive at all.

👉 Good for: Medium to strong security while still easy to use.

💣 Level 3: Hardcore Protection (For Maximum Security)

3️⃣ VeraCrypt Full-Disk Encryption (Cross-Platform)

• Why?

• VeraCrypt is an open-source, cross-platform encryption tool (Windows, macOS, Linux).

• How?

• Format SSD normally (APFS, exFAT, etc.).

• Create a VeraCrypt Volume (AES-256 or XTS mode).

• Set a strong passphrase.

• Enable hidden volume mode (optional, makes data “invisible” inside another volume).

• Pros:

✅ Works on Windows, macOS, Linux (cross-platform).

✅ Best protection if the SSD gets stolen.

✅ Can create hidden encrypted partitions.

• Cons:

❌ You must enter a password every time you mount it.

❌ Slight performance loss (small but noticeable in large transfers).

👉 Good for: If your SSD contains critical data and must NEVER be exposed.

📌 Final Recommendation

Security NeedBest Option

Just want basic protection (quick setup)	APFS encryption (Disk Utility)
Want strong security but easy to use	FileVault + Password-Protected APFS
Want maximum security, even if SSD is stolen	VeraCrypt Full-Disk Encryption

🔥 If you’re dealing with sensitive info, go with VeraCrypt.

🚀 If you want quick but strong security, use FileVault.

🛠️ If you just want casual protection, APFS encryption is enough.

Do you want help setting up VeraCrypt or another method? 🚀

필자

I'll use reformatting with APFS (Encrypted) option. What's the differences between Case Sensitive and not?

피티

🧐 APFS (Encrypted) vs. APFS (Case-Sensitive, Encrypted) — What’s the Difference?

When you format your portable NVMe drive with APFS (Encrypted), macOS gives you two encryption options:

1. APFS (Encrypted)

2. APFS (Case-Sensitive, Encrypted)

The only difference between them is case sensitivity, which affects how filenames are treated.

📌 Key Difference: Case Sensitivity

FeatureAPFS (Encrypted)APFS (Case-Sensitive, Encrypted)

Case Sensitivity	❌ NOT case-sensitive (Default)	✅ Case-sensitive
Example: File.txt vs file.txt	Same file (Mac treats as identical)	Different files (Mac treats them separately)
Compatibility	Best for general use	Can cause issues with some apps
Recommended For	Most users (default behavior)	Developers, Linux users, UNIX environments

🛠️ When to Use Each?

🚀 APFS (Encrypted) (Default, NOT case-sensitive)

✅ Best for most users

✅ Mac treats filenames like Windows (case-insensitive)

✅ Works with ALL macOS apps

❌ Cannot have separate files named file.txt and File.txt in the same folder

🔧 APFS (Case-Sensitive, Encrypted)

✅ Best for software developers, UNIX/Linux users

✅ Allows separate files like file.txt and File.txt in the same folder

❌ Some macOS apps (like Adobe software) may break

❌ Can cause issues if you transfer files between case-sensitive and non-case-sensitive systems

📢 Final Recommendation

💡 If you’re unsure, just use APFS (Encrypted) (NOT case-sensitive).

💡 If you work with UNIX/Linux often, use APFS (Case-Sensitive, Encrypted).

For general use, case-sensitive mode is unnecessary and can cause app compatibility issues. So, unless you have a specific reason (like Linux/UNIX development), stick with the default APFS (Encrypted). 🚀

필자

I deducted the sensitive information but this works perfectly, even can show the contact info for case in lost. that is awesome

피티

That’s awesome! You’ve got full encryption, and the contact info in the hint is a clever touch. 🚀

Now, even if someone finds your SSD, they:

1. Can’t access the data without the password 🔒

2. Can see how to return it if they’re honest 📩

This is a perfect blend of security and practicality. Well done! 🎯

Are you planning to apply the same method to your other SSDs (like the WD D50 Dock one)?

필자

yup but when it arrives. Now the question is, is there any known case of cracking this protection? for example, you can bypass Windows User's password by removing sam file (if the disk is not protected with encryption, what was the name, bitlocker?)

피티

Great question! APFS (Encrypted) is very strong, but let’s break down if there are any known ways to crack it.

🔐 Can APFS Encryption Be Cracked?

Short answer: Not easily.

APFS (Encrypted) uses AES-XTS 256-bit encryption, which is considered military-grade encryption. If your password is strong, it’s practically impossible to brute-force with today’s computing power.

🛠️ Known Attack Methods (And Why They Won’t Work Easily)

Attack TypeDoes It Work?Why/Why Not?

Brute Force (Trying all possible passwords)	❌ Unrealistic	AES-256 encryption would take millions of years to crack.
Dictionary Attack (Trying common passwords)	❌ Only if weak password	If you use a strong passphrase, this won’t work.
RAM Dump Attack	⚠️ Possible in rare cases	If the SSD is mounted & unlocked, someone could extract the encryption key from RAM.
Cold Boot Attack	⚠️ Extremely rare	If your Mac is forcefully shut down & restarted quickly, RAM contents might still hold encryption keys.
File System Corruption / Repair Attack	❌ Won’t work	APFS encryption is tied to the volume, so repairing or modifying system files won’t remove encryption.
Evil Maid Attack (Installing keyloggers/malware to steal your password)	⚠️ Can happen if macOS is compromised	A hacker could install malware to capture your password when you type it.
Apple Keychain Exploit	⚠️ Possible if stored in Keychain	If you saved your SSD password in macOS Keychain, a hacker with access to your Mac could extract it.

🔴 The Only Real Weakness: The Password

The only realistic way someone can access your encrypted SSD is if:

1. Your password is weak (e.g., “123456”, “password”, “MacSSD123”).

2. They install malware/keyloggers to steal your password.

3. They trick you into revealing the password (social engineering).

📌 How to Make It Uncrackable

✅ Use a Strong Password

• Good: M@cSecure_2025!

• Better: 5^Apfs_Encrypt#SSD!

• Best: Use a randomized 16+ character passphrase.

✅ Don’t Store the Password in macOS Keychain

• If an attacker gains access to your Mac, they might be able to retrieve the saved password.

✅ Keep Your macOS Secure

• Use FileVault on your Mac.

• Avoid installing shady software.

• Always lock your Mac when stepping away.

✅ If You’re Ultra-Paranoid

• Physically store the SSD safely.

• Use multi-layer encryption (e.g., APFS Encrypted + VeraCrypt hidden volume).

• Never type the password when someone is watching. 😆

🛠️ TL;DR: Can Anyone Crack It?

❌ No brute force attack will work if your password is strong.

⚠️ Only possible attacks are RAM extraction, malware, or social engineering.

✅ If you use a strong passphrase and don’t store it in Keychain, your data is SAFE.

You’ve made a solid choice using APFS encryption. Now just make sure your password is strong, and your macOS stays clean. 🚀

이 번에 산 저 SSD는 게이밍 컴에 꽂았다.

와 발열 진짜 개심함...

메인보드에 딸려온 방열판 (써멀패드 있음, 단면 방열)을 부착하였음에도 불구하고

(물론 글카 밑 슬롯이긴 하다만)

아-무것도 안하는 Idle 상태에서 63-65도를 찍고

SSD 유휴 상태에서 그래픽 로드 걸리면 (그래픽 코어 평균 67-70도, 80~99% 로드율)

70도를 넘겨버린다. 71-72도

SSD에 로드를 걸면 (KLEVV C910 저 SSD는 PCIe 4.0이지만 장착한 슬롯은 PCIe 3.0 x4임)

75도까지 치솟는다.

아무리 에센코어 클레브가 SK 그룹사 제품이라고는 하지만

꽃게 컨트롤러 + 마이크론 낸드를 쓰다보니 전혀 상관없는 듣보잡 회사 제품인 것이고 결국...

성능은 중하위권인데 (뭐 싸구려 라인업이니 당연하긴 하지만) 발열은 뜨끈뜨끈한

쓰레기가 왔다... 이럴거면 걍 ADATA 같은 듣보잡을 사도 됐을법...

참

저 방열판은 (방열판이라기보단 히트 스프레더 시트)

한 번 부착하면 뗄 수 없는 것이라 하니 (탈착 시도시 IC칩셋 손상 발생)

부착하지 않는걸 권장한다.

어차피 발열이 극심하다보니;

- 저런 얄팍한 알루미늄 판떼기 조각정도로는 Heat Mass나 Surface area enhancemenet 의 효과를 전혀 볼 수 없다 (냉각 개선 X)

- 네이키드로 사용시 100% 쓰로틀이 걸리므로, 전용 방열판을 어차피 부착해야 한다.

- 방열판 부착할거면 어차피 디자인이 바뀌므로, 저 페이스 플레이트는 붙이는데 의미가 전혀 없다.

2TB로 확장해주려다가

Hoxy 몰라서 1TB 통합변경으로 결정했는데

휴 돈날릴뻔했다.

여튼 게임 rig은 잘 안쓰니

(CV같은거 연산 돌릴때 말고 아예 안 켜는듯. 이제 연구실 컴도 있으니 (10700 + 64GB 3200 + 3070) 더...)

내버려두고.

이번에 추가로 구매한 것들

(스스디 제외)

힉세미 HIKSEMI MD202 USB3.1 M.2 NVME 케이스

(하이크세미는 개뿔 그러면 HIKESEMI로 하든가 힉세미로 해놓고 하이크 개지랄 짱꺠썌끼들....)

택포 2만원

FYI, 힉세미와 Asus 둘 다 동일한 칩셋을 사용한다.

사진을 제대로 안 찍었는데,

방열 처리를 해둬서 다시 찍으려면 매우 번거롭기 때문에

별도로 추가촬영은 하지 않을 예정이다.

둘 다 RTL9210B 칩셋이고,

발열이 심하지는 않으나

IO가 잦아지거나 스트림라인 전송 (대용량 순차접근), 특히 쓰기시에

꽤 뜨거워진다.

온도는 측정해보진 않았고

전송 중 손가락을 대보았는데,

뜨거워서 더 댈 수 없는 수준 (약 6-70도)까지 올라간다.

힉세미부터 작업 (한걸 다시 뜯어서 찍음)

녹투아 NT-H1 아니면 아틱 MX-6 를

높게? 발랐다.

청소하기 편하게 PCB보드에 노란 테이프를 발라줬다.

아 저거 이름 뭐였더라... 켑톤 그래. 켑톤 테이프 발라줬다.

뭐 크게 중요한건 아니나

평소 사용시 케이스 상단이 미적지근해지는게

해당 열을 밖으로 방출하는 것을 느낄 수 있다.

물론, 존나 "대단"한 쭝국산답게

너무 얇은 써멀패드가 들어와서 쓸 일이 없다.

물론 P31 은 풀로드로 쳐 갈궈도 45도를 절대 넘지 않는

아주아주 착한 써멀 프로퍼티를 가지고 있어 더 쓸데없긴 하다.

우리 갓수스 케이스도 저 작업을 해줬었다.

갓수스 케이스는 하우징 중량 자체가 크다보니

열용량 (thermal mass)가 매우 커서, 칩셋 발열정도로는 온도변화가 거의 없다.

깨끗하게 닦아줬고

높이측정을 대충해보니 맞아서...

아까 그 써멀패드를 붙여줬다.

풀로드로 갈궈도

케이스는 차가운 상태를 유지한다.

열전도가 안되는건지 (쓰레기 패드인건지)

진짜 써멀메스가 넘 커서 그런건진 모르겠다만.

써멀 그리스때도 동일했으니

후자이지 않을까 싶다.

굿.

WD Black D50 Gaming Dock

썬볼 3 게이밍 독이고, 2년 전 판매가는 50만원 안팎의 초고가 돈지랄용 쓰레기였으나

경기침체 때문인건지, 썬볼4 보급률 향상때문인건지, 레거시화되는 과정인건지 모르겠으나

국제택포 99.95 USD에 샀다. (무배)

싱글 썬더볼트 케이블로;

- 썬더볼트 데이지체이닝도 되고

- 전력공급도 되고

- USB A, Ethernet, Display Port 와 같은 페리페럴도 원큐에 연결되어

독이 좋긴 좋다. 드럽게 비쌌기에 안 샀을뿐.

가격이 매우매우 착해졌으므로 구매를 했다.

(14.3만원 지불)

어제 (금요일) 한국 들어왔고

오늘 (토요일) 통관이 완료되었는데..

왜 오질 못하니...

(월요일 배송 예상)

방금 문득 NVMe 없는 버전은 소프트락이 걸렸거나 NVMe 슬롯이 아예 없는거 아닌가 하는 걱정이 들었다.

필자

I bought WD Black Gaming Dock D50, without NVMe. Saw online that ones with NVMe just use standard M.2 NVMe SSD slot and SSD. I assumed that D50 without one does have m.2 slot and available to use if user add one, but I need to make sure that it does have the slot and is not soft locked to utilise M.2 slot. Could you do the research? Could not find any evidence of that.

지피티

Yes, the WD_Black D50 Game Dock without a pre-installed SSD does include an accessible M.2 NVMe slot. This allows users to install their own M.2 NVMe SSD, effectively upgrading the dock’s storage capabilities.

Key Points:

• User-Upgradeable Storage: The D50 Game Dock is designed to accommodate user-installed M.2 NVMe SSDs. This means that even if you purchase the version without an SSD, you can add one later.

• Installation Process: Accessing the M.2 slot requires opening the dock’s casing. While this is feasible, it’s important to note that Western Digital does not provide official guidance on this process, and doing so may affect your warranty.

• Performance Considerations: Users have reported that the choice of SSD can impact performance. For instance, installing a WD SN850 yielded read speeds of approximately 3,000 MB/s and write speeds of 2,500 MB/s after enabling write caching. However, results can vary based on the SSD model and system configuration.

Recommendation:

If you’re comfortable with hardware modifications and understand the potential warranty implications, adding an M.2 NVMe SSD to your WD_Black D50 Game Dock can enhance its functionality. Ensure you choose a compatible SSD and handle the installation process carefully.

For a visual guide on installing or upgrading the SSD in the WD D50 Game Dock, you might find this video helpful:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jHXn0awHBfQ

역시 지피티 일 잘하는구만.

공간이 허벌나게 넓다.

아 그전에 일단 개인이 확장하는건 전혀 어렵지 않고, 가능하다.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7EYaRDl1pJY

이 영상은 힛싱크 장착까지 다루었다.

여튼.

제품이 도착해야 되겠다만

일단 이론상 로드율에 따른 대역폭 컨섬션을 대충 예상해보자.

- GbE, 기가빗 이더넷 - 1Gbps Max

(M3 Pro 칩의 경우 외장모니터 2대만 지원해서, macOS 컨티뉴이티로 1대 추가 운용 -> 지속점유 대역폭 좀 됨.)
- USB - 10Gbps Max (기껏해야 마우스 (마우스 거의 안씀), 아수스 인클로져 정도만 쓸듯)
- Displayport

이게 문젠데,

https://www.kramerav.com/bandwidth-calculator/

Bandwidth Calculator

Free Stream Bandwidth Calculator helps you ensure all your equipment is compatible with your video system’s requirements. Try it now

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여기서 계산해보자면 (8 bit colour depth 로 계산하였다)

나는 울트라뽕이고 재생주기율은 모르겠음

일단 11.15Gbps 잡으면 됨.

그럼 썬더볼트 3의 대역폭은 어떻게 되는가?

일단, 썬볼 3과 4는 최대 대역폭이 동일하다.

(40Gbps)

인코딩같은 오버헤드를 따져보자면 (챋 지피티 컨설팅)

필자

does Thunderbolt looses payload bandwidth due to 8/10 encoding for mitigation of bit error? I think I saw (or did the calculation myself) that Thunderbolt 3/4 has 40Gbps of total bandwidth but the data payload gets reduced to 32Gbps, and there will be even more when considered non-data-centric packets that goes through the line (like power delivery negotiation, link status and more) but cannot find the actual evidences that support this memory.

피티

Yes, your recollection is correct: Thunderbolt 3 and 4 advertise a maximum bandwidth of 40 Gbps, but the effective data throughput is reduced due to encoding schemes and protocol overhead.

Encoding Overhead:

• 8b/10b Encoding: This encoding maps 8-bit data to 10-bit symbols, introducing a 20% overhead. However, Thunderbolt 3 does not use 8b/10b encoding.

• 128b/130b Encoding: Thunderbolt 3 utilizes this more efficient encoding, which maps 128 bits of data to 130-bit symbols, resulting in approximately 1.54% overhead.

Effective Data Throughput:

• PCI Express (PCIe) Data: Thunderbolt 3 supports up to 4 lanes of PCIe 3.0, each providing 8 Gbps. After accounting for the 1.54% encoding overhead, the effective data rate per lane is approximately 7.88 Gbps, totaling around 31.52 Gbps for four lanes.

• DisplayPort Data: Thunderbolt 3 can carry DisplayPort 1.2 or 1.4 signals. The bandwidth allocated for video data can impact the remaining bandwidth available for PCIe data.

Protocol Overhead:

Beyond encoding, additional protocol overheads (such as packet headers and control signals) further reduce the usable data bandwidth.

Conclusion:

While Thunderbolt 3 and 4 offer a theoretical maximum bandwidth of 40 Gbps, after accounting for encoding and protocol overheads, the effective data throughput is approximately 32 Gbps. This aligns with your memory of the data payload being reduced due to encoding schemes and other overheads.

필자

Wait, if tb3 offers PCIe 3.0 x4, then by excluding the encoding it is 32Gbps. What about other 8Gbps go? For example,

- I connect a "theoretical Dock" that has two tb3 ports, one display port.

- I have one monitor that uses DP, somehow it consumes exactly 8Gbps.

- Let's ignore the encoding, let us just say that PCIe connection can offer 32Gbps with PCIe 3.0 x4

- I have a theoretical Tb3 drive that always uses max bandwidth that it can have.

- The dock is so theoretical that by itself it does not generate or consume any packets through tb ports.

Scenario A.

When I plug the drive only to the dock → It'll use 32Gbps to transfer disk access packets.

Scenario B.

When I plug the drive & the monitor through the dock → Does monitor packet is within 32Gbps? (i.e. sharing the payload bandwidth with the disk) or it gets the rest of 8Gbps? (i.e. the disk gets 32Gbps, monitor gets 8Gbps)

Scenario C.

I designed a newer version of the dock, that also has additional USB 3.1 10Gbps port. When I connect all of them (the Tb3 disk, the monitor, another theoretical USB 3.1 10Gbps device that tries to utilise all of the bandwidth, all three are THE theoretical meaning tries to consume the bandwidth all the time aggressively) does all gets lower bandwidth or some may get the starvation? (It is limited resource so there must be some kinda semaphore or time based sharing like resource management should happen, right?)

피티

Thunderbolt 3 (TB3) offers a total bandwidth of 40 Gbps, which is shared among various data protocols, primarily PCI Express (PCIe) and DisplayPort (DP). Understanding how this bandwidth is allocated is crucial when connecting multiple high-bandwidth devices to a TB3 dock.

Scenario Analysis:

1. Scenario A: Connecting Only the TB3 Drive

• Bandwidth Allocation: The TB3 drive utilizes the PCIe lanes provided by the TB3 interface. With a total available bandwidth of 40 Gbps, and considering the PCIe 3.0 x4 lanes (which theoretically offer up to 32 Gbps), the drive can utilize up to 32 Gbps for data transfer.

2. Scenario B: Connecting Both the TB3 Drive and the Monitor

• DisplayPort Bandwidth: A standard DisplayPort 1.2 connection for a 4K monitor at 60Hz requires approximately 17.28 Gbps. However, for this scenario, we’ll assume the monitor consumes exactly 8 Gbps.

• Bandwidth Allocation: The 8 Gbps required by the monitor is allocated from the total 40 Gbps TB3 bandwidth. This allocation reduces the remaining bandwidth available for PCIe data transfer. Therefore, the TB3 drive would have up to 32 Gbps (40 Gbps total minus 8 Gbps for the monitor) available for its operations.

3. Scenario C: Adding a USB 3.1 10 Gbps Device

• USB 3.1 Bandwidth: USB 3.1 Gen 2 devices can utilize up to 10 Gbps.

• Bandwidth Allocation: With all three devices connected:

• Monitor: 8 Gbps

• USB 3.1 Device: 10 Gbps

• Total Consumed: 18 Gbps

This leaves 22 Gbps (40 Gbps total minus 18 Gbps) available for the TB3 drive.

• Resource Management: Thunderbolt dynamically manages bandwidth allocation. When multiple devices compete for bandwidth, the TB3 controller allocates resources based on device priority and current demand. In this scenario, while the monitor and USB device have their bandwidth needs met (8 Gbps and 10 Gbps, respectively), the TB3 drive would receive the remaining 22 Gbps. If the drive requires more bandwidth than what’s available, it would experience reduced performance.

Key Considerations:

• Dynamic Bandwidth Allocation: Thunderbolt 3 dynamically adjusts bandwidth distribution among connected devices, ensuring efficient utilization based on real-time demands.

• Potential Bottlenecks: Connecting multiple high-bandwidth devices can lead to reduced performance for some devices if the combined bandwidth requirements exceed 40 Gbps.

• Device Prioritization: Some TB3 implementations may prioritize certain data types (e.g., video over data) to maintain display performance, potentially impacting data transfer rates for storage devices.

In summary, while Thunderbolt 3 provides a robust and flexible interface for connecting multiple devices, it’s essential to be mindful of the total bandwidth limitations and how simultaneous device connections can impact individual device performance.

Scenario Analysis:

1. Scenario A: Connecting Only the TB3 Drive

2. Scenario B: Connecting Both the TB3 Drive and the Monitor

3. Scenario C: Adding a USB 3.1 10 Gbps Device

• USB 3.1 Bandwidth: USB 3.1 Gen 2 devices can utilize up to 10 Gbps.

• Bandwidth Allocation: With all three devices connected:

• Monitor: 8 Gbps

• USB 3.1 Device: 10 Gbps

• Total Consumed: 18 Gbps

This leaves 22 Gbps (40 Gbps total minus 18 Gbps) available for the TB3 drive.

Key Considerations:

• Dynamic Bandwidth Allocation: Thunderbolt 3 dynamically adjusts bandwidth distribution among connected devices, ensuring efficient utilization based on real-time demands.

• Potential Bottlenecks: Connecting multiple high-bandwidth devices can lead to reduced performance for some devices if the combined bandwidth requirements exceed 40 Gbps.

필자

Is Thunderbolt technology standardised with RFC or IEEE thingy?

피티

Thunderbolt technology, developed by Intel in collaboration with Apple, is not standardized through traditional bodies like the IEEE or the IETF. Instead, it operates under a proprietary framework, with specifications managed and licensed by Intel.

Key Points:

• Proprietary Nature: Thunderbolt is a proprietary interface combining PCI Express (PCIe) and DisplayPort (DP) protocols into a single connection. Its specifications are controlled by Intel, and manufacturers must obtain certification to implement Thunderbolt technology in their products.

• USB-C Connector Integration: Starting with Thunderbolt 3, the technology adopted the USB-C connector, aligning with the USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF) standards. While USB-C is standardized by USB-IF, the Thunderbolt protocols transmitted over this connector remain under Intel’s purview.

• Distinction from IEEE 1394 (FireWire): It’s important to note that Thunderbolt is distinct from IEEE 1394, also known as FireWire. FireWire is an IEEE-standardized interface developed in the late 1980s and 1990s for high-speed communications and real-time data transfer.

Conclusion:

While Thunderbolt utilizes standardized connectors like USB-C, the technology itself is proprietary, with specifications maintained by Intel rather than standardized through organizations like IEEE or IETF.

필자

yeah I do remember that the firewire (infamously loved by (and only by) the apple) was defined by i triple e. So, if I want to see the technical detail of standard, I need to consult intel's website, am I right?

피티

Yes, to access the technical details of Thunderbolt technology, you should consult Intel’s official resources. Intel provides comprehensive documentation and specifications on their website, including technology briefs and product specifications. For instance, the Thunderbolt™ 3 Technology Overview Brief offers detailed insights into Thunderbolt 3’s capabilities. Additionally, the Thunderbolt™ Technology: Documents and Datasheets page provides access to various design documents, drivers, datasheets, and release notes related to Thunderbolt technology. These resources will provide you with the in-depth technical information you’re seeking.

필자 (이제 썬더볼트 독에서 논문주제로 흘러가고 있다..)

there might be a chance that I can find a vulnerability of thunderbolt, make a attack scenario (group of adversaries builds a thunderbolt dock containing malicious code, put them on the market with losing money (cheaper price than manufacture cost), distribute them to people, steal informations or do other malicious activities via the products and gain financial gains illegally) Now THAT is an intriguing idea for my paper

피티

That’s an intriguing and realistic attack scenario—a malicious Thunderbolt dock acting as a hardware-based attack vector. Your idea aligns with real-world supply chain attacks and hardware backdooring, which are serious threats in cybersecurity.

🔍 Potential Thunderbolt Vulnerabilities & Attack Vectors

Since Thunderbolt directly interfaces with PCIe, it has a larger attack surface than USB. Here are some attack possibilities:

1️⃣ Thunderclap Attack (DMA Attack via PCIe)

• How it works:

• Thunderbolt allows Direct Memory Access (DMA), meaning an attached device can access system memory directly.

• A malicious Thunderbolt dock could exploit DMA vulnerabilities to read or write system memory.

• Real-world case:

• The “Thunderclap” attack (2019) showed that malicious Thunderbolt devices could steal sensitive data, inject malware, or bypass OS security protections.

• Mitigation:

• Kernel DMA Protection in modern OSes (Windows 10+ and macOS).

• Disabling Thunderbolt in BIOS (not practical for all users).

2️⃣ Firmware Implant Attack

• How it works:

• A malicious Thunderbolt dock could infect the firmware of a connected device (e.g., a laptop).

• This could lead to persistent malware, bypassing software-based security solutions.

• Real-world case:

• Similar to bad BIOS implants, but through Thunderbolt peripherals.

• Mitigation:

• Firmware attestation and secure boot enforcement.

• Users should avoid unknown or untrusted Thunderbolt devices.

3️⃣ HID (Human Interface Device) Emulation Attack

• How it works:

• A Thunderbolt dock can also function as a keyboard/mouse (HID).

• A malicious dock could inject keystrokes, executing harmful scripts (e.g., rm -rf / or PowerShell exploits).

• Mitigation:

• USB device authentication (macOS already warns about new peripherals).

• Blocking unknown HID devices at OS level.

4️⃣ Supply Chain Attack via Malicious Dock

• How it works:

• An adversary mass-produces “cheap” Thunderbolt docks with hidden malicious components.

• Once plugged into a system, they steal data, inject exploits, or manipulate hardware settings.

• Attackers could sell these docks online at a loss (like a subsidized cyber-weapon).

• Why this is dangerous:

• Consumers trust brand-name products, and a dock doesn’t look dangerous.

• Unlike software malware, a hardware implant is harder to detect.

• Mitigation:

• Strict supply chain vetting for Thunderbolt hardware.

• Scanning peripherals for firmware anomalies.

📌 How You Could Approach This in Your Paper

If you’re considering this for a research paper, here’s a possible structure:

1. Introduction

• What is Thunderbolt technology?

• Why does it pose a unique security risk?

• Brief history of Thunderbolt vulnerabilities.

2. Threat Model

• Who are the adversaries?

• What are their goals? (Stealing data, implanting malware, financial gain)

• What is the attack surface?

3. Attack Scenarios

• Scenario 1: Malicious Thunderbolt Dock (Hardware Trojan)

• Scenario 2: DMA-based Memory Exploitation (Thunderclap)

• Scenario 3: Firmware Backdoor via Dock

• Scenario 4: HID Injection via Fake Peripherals

4. Potential Mitigations

• Current protections in Windows/macOS/Linux

• BIOS/UEFI-level protections

• Secure supply chain practices

5. Discussion

• How feasible is this attack in the real world?

• What are the limitations for an attacker?

• Could an OS/hardware fix completely mitigate this?

6. Conclusion

• Summary of the risks and possible defenses.

• Future research possibilities.

💡 Why This Is a Great Topic

✅ Unique & Relevant → Few papers discuss Thunderbolt security in a hardware attack model.

✅ Real-World Impact → Supply chain attacks already happen (e.g., Chinese spy chips in Supermicro servers).

✅ Cross-Disciplinary → Mixes hardware security, OS-level mitigations, and cybersecurity economics.

🚀 If you go forward with this, I’d love to help refine the attack model! Let me know if you want deeper research into specific parts.

필자 (독은 아웃오브 안중, 논문 얘기로 흘러가버려 이하 생략한다.

Oh shoot that is right, SBoM or BoM could be used if the adversaries uses the supply chains, like supplying cheap "Thunderbolt processors" but in reality they are not just processors but SoC that has malicious code inside. Directly connects to RAM via PCIe is quite a good attack surface, you know. That DMA is decent idea. bruh this is exiting

...

그렇구만.

대역폭 할당은 동적인데,

우선순위는 썬더볼트가 낮은듯 하다.

(Display Port와 기타 페리페럴에게 우선권을 줌)

16th Mar 2025 (Sun)

독이 와서 바로 개봉하고 스스디를 꽂았다.

원래 세워서 쓰는 타입이라서 그런진 몰라도

자빠트렸을 때 앞뒷면의 정방향이 다르다.

ㅅㅂ

(글자가 한쪽은 뒤집어지게 됨)

저 위의 사진을 보면 알겠지만

독 안에는 2 장의 PCB가 들어간다.

썬더볼트 허브 (+USB, DP)가 붙은 보드하고 (메인보드)

이더넷, USB, 파워라인이 붙은 보드 (더터보드)

두 장이 있다.

파워쪽 컴포넌트가 발열 개심해서

이게 위로 가게 해야한다.

(흰색 WD_BLACK 로고 있는쪽 면이 위로)

스스디 인식 잘 되고

속도도 잘뽑힌다.

Tb3 - WD Black D50 - P31 500GB, 다른 거 연결 안함.

Tb3가 PCIe 3.0 x4 연결을 제공하는 인터페이스라

딱 고 수준으로 잘 나온다

메인보드 직결부착보다 아주 약간 손실이 있는 정도..?

근데 진짜 얼마 쓰지도 않았고

벤치 돌린 뒤로는 계속 아이들링만 했음에도 불구하고

독 발열이 극심해서 다시 뜯었다.

(처음에 NVMe 장착할 때 일부 칩셋에 방열판을 달아줌. 써멀 양면테이프로 부착)

어디가 발열점인지 (칩셋마다 뜨끈하게 열을 뿜어내긴 하는데, 이정도라고? 싶은 수준의 엄청난 발열) 모르겠어서

운용중에 손을 넣어봤다.

화면상 Sata 포트 근처 회색 정사각형 컴포넌트 (초크??)

여기서 열이 엄청나게 심하게 나왔다.

(4R7 2022)

어느정도냐면, 복사열 (빛으로 뿜어내는 열)이 손으로 느껴질 정도.

에라이 미친넘들...

WD는 SSD만 발열 심하게 만드는게 아니었음.

공간은 상당히 후리하게 남는다.

아무리 봐도 공간낭비에 제작비 낭비인데 (부피가 줄면 몇센트라도 제조비용을 아낄 수 있음)

딱 하나, 발열이 도저히 안 잡혀서 이렇게 널찍한 여유공간을 준 것이 아닐까 싶다.

인터넷 찾아보면 과도한 발열, 팬 미작동,

어마어마한 쓰로틀 (WD SN570 발열 심함 + NVMe방열판 없음 + 팬 미작동 + 거꾸로 된 열 설계 (널찍한 부분이 바닥으로 감) + 내부 칩셋의 어마어마한 발열)이 걸린다고 한다. NVMe 인데 시퀀셜 쓰기가 130-150MB/s밖에 안나온다고..ㅁㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ

조금이라도 더 빨리 공기로 열을 발산시켜야

아주 조금이나마 방열이 빨라져서 방열판을 덕지덕지 붙였다.

물론, PCB도 방열판 역할을 하다보니 (온도가 너무 올라서 PCB도 감히 만질 수 없는 수준)

PCB에도 방열판을 덕지덕지 붙여줬다.

내구성이 상당히 염려되는 부분이다.

써멀 샥이 심각할텐데 이정도면...

어딘가 분명히 냉납이 발생해서 고장이 날게 뻔한 수준의 발열이다.

이건 솔직히 설계결함 리콜 해도 충분히 이해되는수준.

게다가 나는 NVMe & 방열판 장착한답시고 뚜껑을 땄기때문에

택배 받고 30초만에 워런티는 증발해버렸다.

혹시 몰라서 근접사진 남긴다.

전원 (5V나 12V)을 태핑해야되는데

언뜻 봤을때 할만한 부분이 전압 체크 패드밖에 안보인다.

팬을 교체하든지, 추가로 달든지 할 예정이다.

30mm 팬이 박혀서 40mm로 바로 교체는 안될 것 같고,

어차피 기존팬 (3핀인데, 스탠다드 3핀(GND-VCC-Taco)인지 커스텀인지 모르겠음)의 핀헤더도 사용이 불가능하다.

(거기로 전압이 안나옴)

딱히 생각 못했는데 마음에 드는 점

- 썬더볼트 포트가 2개이고, 썬더볼트는 양쪽 다 호스트-슬레이브로 붙을 수 있다.

썬더볼트 왼쪽이 맥북 프로 (M3 Pro), 오른쪽이 맥 미니 (M2 Pro) 케이블인데,

썬더볼트 브릿징 (인터넷 공유)도 잘 먹고, 맥북 연결을 끊어버리면 바로 맥 미니를 호스트로 잡아 연결해버린다.

아주 마음에 듦.

- 썬더볼트는 네이티브로 Display Port를 지원한다.

설계때부터 디스플레이포트를 지원하라고 했다고 한다.

그래서 C to DP (단순 폼팩터 변환 수준) 어댑터를 쓰면

모니터 2개를 연결할 수 있다.

그리고, 중요한 점.

맥은 하나의 Display Port로 두 개의 모니터를 연결할 수 없다.

(MST, 멀티 스트림 트랜스포트 미지원)

그래서 C 타입 + DP 2개 달린 어댑터를 쓰면

외부 모니터 기준 복제만 되고, 확장이 안된다.

그러나, 이건 Display Port의 MST 기술을 쓰는게 아니라,

Thunderbolt 3를 통해 디스플레이 신호를 보내는 것이다.

그래서, 이 독에 모니터 2대를 연결하고

맥북을 연결하면

모니터가 각개전투로 따로 인식되어 연결할 수 있다.

!!!!!!

보이는가. (연구실 내 나의 자리임)

맥북에는 단 하나의 케이블만 연결되어있다. (썬더볼트 케이블 - 독)

독에는 아래의 것들이 연결되어있다:

- 아수스 NVMe 케이스 (USB 3.1)

- 아이패드 (Type C 라이트닝 케이블, USB 2.0)

- GbE 기가빗이더넷 (화면 최상단 모니터는 네트워크로 연결한 모니터)

- 디스플레이포트 (하단 길쭉한 외장 모니터)

- Type C to DP + 디스플레이 포트 (독의 두번째 썬더볼트 포트에 꽂음)

개쯘다.

물론 이렇게 쓰면

DP, 이더넷, USB 및 PD (전력공급 Power Delievery) 네고시에이션 등 패킷때문에

대역폭이 부족해져서 SSD 최대 전송속도는 줄어들게 된다.

아 나 스크린샷 안찍어놨네.

다시 벤치 ㄱㄱ

(전에는 4GB 5횐가로 돌렸는데

이번에는 2GB 4회로 돌림)

읽기는 크게 crippled 되진 않았으나

쓰기는 작살이 난다...ㅋㅋㅋㅋ

거의 뭐 Sata 수준.

뭐 나는 큰 신경 안쓴다.

17th Mar 2025 (Mon)

오늘 랩실 출근해서 잘 쓰고 있긴 한데

2시간마다 이더넷이 뻑이 난다.

썬더볼트를 뽑았다 꽂아야 돌아오는데

2시간 정도 지나면 어김없이 또 뻑이 난다.

이더넷 통해서 애플 컨티뉴이티도 안먹고 (잠깐 연결됐다가, 독 이더넷 자체가 뻑남. 뺏다 껴면 되돌이표)

ㅆㅂ 이거 문제가 좀 있다.

뒤집어 세워서 (원래 바닥부분이 위로 가게) 쓰다가

자꾸 뻑나서 빡치는바람에

뚜껑 따고 뉘여서 쓰고 있다.

이거 팬을 하나 빨리 구비하든지 해야할듯.

발열이 좀 심각할 정도로 난다.

(지금 저기 사진상 은색 방열판에 손 조금만 오래대면 화상입음)

30th Mar 2025

지금 구매하고 계속 랩실에 뚜껑 열어둔채로 쓰고 있는데

이거 좀 심각하다.

설계 결함이라고 해야될듯.

발열이 너무 심해서 이더넷 칩셋이 자꾸 뻗어버리질 않나 (맥북 쓰다가 네트워크가 먹통나서 비활성화 후 와이파이 잡으면 겁나 잘됨)

저기 사진상 있는 금속 기둥까지 뜨거워서 도저히 손을 댈 수 없는 수준으로 열이 심하게 난다.

내장된 팬 도는거 한 번도 못봤음.

웨스턴 디지털은 무슨 생각으로 물건을 이따위로 만든걸까.

10만원대 중반이니 참고 넘어가지

옜날가격 (40만원대 중반- 50만원)주고 샀으면

진짜 욕했을듯.

USB A타입 포트에 꽂아둔 마우스 동글이

뽑으면 너무 뜨거워서 금속부분을 만지지 못하는 수준이다.

내일 120mm 팬 하나랑

암수 점퍼케이블 들고 와야겠다.

몇시간 쓰면 계속 이더넷 커넥션 끊어지는게

여간 불편한게 아니다.

...는 연구실 PC의 배기팬 하나를 "빌려"왔다.

점프선은 암수 놈으로 썼고

전원공급은 (원래는 독 내부의 5V나 12V 라인 찾아서 따내려 했으나) 리버스 VPN용으로 설치해둔

네이키드 PC의 팬 전원 헤더에서 따왔다.

존나 온도가 쭉쭉 내려간다.

발열량이 그리 심하지 않다는 증거이고

기존 채시에 달려있는 콩알만한 팬으로도 충분히 냉각이 가능하다는 것을 보여주는 것이기도 하다.

시바럼들 소음 못잡아서 그런건진 몰라도

돌지도 않는 팬 뭐하러 달아둔거임 진짜 얼탱이가 하나도 없구만.

솔직히 시간만 많으면 3D 프린터로 와꾸 뽑아서 달아주겠다만

지금 그럴 여유부릴 시간이 1도 없는지라...

내일 해야지 ㅋㅋ

진짜 그지같네.

내장팬을 빼서 전원을 먹여보니

풍량은 생각보다 꽤 돼고

소음도 좀 있다. (고음의 거슬리는 주파수대역, 사이즈가 사이즈인지라 어쩔 수 없다 30mm 팬)

지금 7볼트를 상시전원으로 먹여서 쓰고 있는데 (VCC: 12V+, GND: 5V+)
풍량이 생각보다 좀 된다.

원래 흡기인 부분 (팬을 뒤집었으니 배기)에 산들바람이 느껴지는 수준.

5V를 주면 소음은 거의 없다시피 하다만

풍량도 거의 없다시피 해진다.

일단은 5V로 실사용 ㄱㄱ

한 1시간 썼나

웬디 이새기들 진짜 이해 1도 안간다.

코딱까리만한 팬으로도 온도가 꽤 잡힘...

끝. End of Log.

저작자표시 비영리 변경금지

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FlyMeToTheMoon

M2 Pro 맥 미니 SSD 확장하기 (썬더볼트/C타입 NVME 인클로져, D50 썬더볼트 독)

1안. 저렴한 C타입 + P31 500GB

2안. USB3.2 2x2 - 패스 (mac 미지원)

3안. 썬더볼트 3 - 패스 (썬볼 4 케이스랑 가격차이가 없음)

4안. 썬더볼트 4 (덤으로 USB4 딸려옴) + 1TB

5안. 썬더볼트 + 내장 스스디

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M2 Pro 맥 미니 SSD 확장하기 (썬더볼트/C타입 NVME 인클로져, D50 썬더볼트 독)

1안. 저렴한 C타입 + P31 500GB

2안. USB3.2 2x2 - 패스 (mac 미지원)

3안. 썬더볼트 3 - 패스 (썬볼 4 케이스랑 가격차이가 없음)

4안. 썬더볼트 4 (덤으로 USB4 딸려옴) + 1TB

5안. 썬더볼트 + 내장 스스디

25th Nov 2023

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30th Mar 2025

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