Asus TUF Gaming A2: Outdoor SSD enclosure with IP68 gets faster USB port 38 reviews
Image: Asus
Moving an existing M.2 SSD into an external enclosure isn’t rocket science. Asus has introduced one for outdoor use that offers protection against shock, dust and water. Compared to its predecessor, the speed of the interface is doubled. USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 allows approximately 2 GB/s on the TUF Gaming A2.
A good 2 GB/s instead of 1 GB/s is now possible
Like the TUF Gaming A1, its successor, the TUF Gaming A2, also offers space for an M.2 SSD in 2280, 2260 and 2242 formats. Both NVMe and SATA models are supported, but for the advertised fast transfers, this should be at least an NVMe SSD with PCIe 3.0, which also comes close to the 2 GB/s of the USB interface.
Exterior properties in a less compact format
The silicone shell of the SSD case protects against impacts and ensures optimal grip. The enclosure is IP68 certified and also meets certain requirements of the American military standard MIL-STD-810H, which defines tests for compatibility of equipment with environmental influences such as extreme temperatures, UV rays or mechanical shock. According to Asus, the TUF Gaming A2 can survive submersion in 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes and a fall from a height of 1.22 meters without damage.
With dimensions of 116.22mm (L) x 55.65mm (W) x 15.3mm (H), the case is not particularly compact, due to the protective measures. The weight is 148 grams.
It doesn’t really work without screws
If four screws are loosened, the cover can be lifted and the M.2 SSD can be mounted on the carrier board without screws using a plastic lever (Q-Latch). A thermal pad helps transfer heat to the case. It is unclear from the available data which chip translates SATA/NVMe signals to the USB protocol. The predecessor uses the Realtek RTL9210B-CG, but that’s not an option here as it maxes out at supporting USB 3.2 Gen 2 with 10Gbps. However, manufacturers ASMedia and JMicron offer suitable bridge chips in their range.
Asus TUF Gaming A2 (Image: Asus)
Although Asus’ product pages provide more information, the manufacturer leaves open the question of when and at what price the TUF Gaming A2 will be available at retailers. The predecessor with USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10 Gbit/s) can be purchased for around 45 euros. An additional charge is to be expected for the faster interface (20 Gbit/s).
Topics: Flash Memory SSD Storage Source: Asus
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