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FIDECO Hard Drive Enclosure Review: A Reliable and Efficient Storage Solution
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient way to expand your storage or repurpose old hard drives, the FIDECO Hard Drive Enclosure might just be the solution you need. This USB 3.0 to SATA docking station is designed to accommodate both 2.5" and 3.5" SATA HDDs and SSDs, making it a versatile tool for data storage, backups, and even DVR functionality. With features like a built-in cooling fan, UASP support, and plug-and-play compatibility, it’s no wonder this product has garnered positive reviews from users.
Pros and Cons: What Customers Are Saying
Quality and Build
The FIDECO Hard Drive Enclosure is praised for its sturdy and sleek design. Made from durable plastic with a dark black finish, it looks professional and blends well with any setup. One user mentioned that it looks like it “belongs” on an entertainment center, rather than appearing as a makeshift solution.
However, some users noted that the plastic material, while durable, might not withstand heavy impacts. One reviewer advised handling it carefully to avoid damage.
Performance and Usability
The enclosure’s USB 3.0 interface and UASP support are standout features, delivering data transfer speeds of up to 5Gbps. Users reported seamless performance when transferring large files or running multiple video streams. A Tablo TV user highlighted how the enclosure handled continuous DVR usage without a single hiccup, even with the fan running 24/7.
The plug-and-play design is another major plus. It works effortlessly with Windows, Mac, and Linux systems, requiring no additional drivers. One user appreciated how easy it was to connect their Xbox One S and expand its storage without any setup hassles.
Cooling System
The built-in cooling fan is a game-changer for users who need their hard drives to run for extended periods. A Tablo TV user emphasized how the fan effectively dissipates heat, ensuring the hard drive stays cool even during constant use. The fan’s dedicated on/off switch allows users to control airflow based on their needs.
That said, some users found that the fan alone might not be sufficient in warmer environments or when multiple enclosures are used side by side. One reviewer shared their experience of adding external cooling fans to maintain optimal temperatures during warmer months.
Compatibility and Versatility
The enclosure’s ability to support both 2.5" and 3.5" SATA drives makes it highly versatile. Users have successfully used it with a variety of drives, including high-capacity 12TB HDDs and SSDs. A user mentioned how it worked perfectly with their Seagate Barracuda drive for weekly backups.
However, it’s worth noting that the enclosure is not compatible with IDE drives, which might be a limitation for users with older hardware.
Value for Money
At its price point, the FIDECO Hard Drive Enclosure offers excellent value. Users appreciated the inclusion of a 12V power adapter and all necessary cables, eliminating the need for additional purchases. One reviewer even mentioned that the enclosure’s affordability made it an easy replacement if needed, though they were impressed by its durability over nearly a year of continuous use.
Potential Drawbacks
While the enclosure has received overwhelmingly positive feedback, there are a few minor drawbacks to consider:
- Heat Management in Warm Environments
As mentioned earlier, the built-in fan might need supplemental cooling in warmer conditions or when multiple enclosures are used together. - Cable Length
The included USB cable is around 3-4 feet long, which might not be sufficient for all setups. Users with larger distances between devices may need to purchase a longer cable separately. - Plastic Durability
While the enclosure is sturdy, it’s not indestructible. Users should handle it with care to avoid accidental damage.
Final Verdict
The FIDECO Hard Drive Enclosure is a reliable, efficient, and affordable solution for anyone looking to repurpose old hard drives or expand their storage capabilities. Its USB 3.0 interface, UASP support, and built-in cooling fan make it a standout choice for both casual users and tech enthusiasts.
While it has a few minor limitations, such as potential heat management issues in warmer environments and the need for longer cables in some setups, these are easily manageable. Overall, the enclosure delivers excellent performance and value, making it a highly recommended product.
If you’re in the market for a hard drive enclosure that combines functionality, durability, and affordability, the FIDECO Hard Drive Enclosure is definitely worth considering. Whether you’re using it for backups, DVR functionality, or general storage, it’s a versatile tool that won’t disappoint.
Specification FIDECO Hard Drive Enclosure, USB 3.0 to SATA Hard Drive Docking Station for 3.5 or 2.5 inch SATA HDD SSD with Cooling Fan, 12V Power Adapter Included, Support UASP:
Comments from Amazon:
I had an old computer that I was replacing with a new one. I have come to the realization over the years that it doesn't matter how much disc space I've got, I will outgrow it. I had used up all 6 of the internal HDD slots in my old computer. So between some buddies & I, we came up with the idea of building my new computer with no internal discs (except for the SSD on which to install Windows). The old computer was a dinosaur but the HDDs were certainly still functional. I wasn't about to migrate all my data to new devices. That's where SATA-to-USB enclosures come in. And for future expansion, I can add USB devices to my heart's content. I won't be needing any more SATA-to-USB enclosures. At least, that's the current plan. I've been using this new computer for barely 6 months so it's early days yet. Now, the trick is to verify the size of the enclosure you buy. By size, I am not talking about length, width, & height. I'm talking about the storage capacity of the HDD you will be inserting in the enclosure. I was a bit new at this & initially, I bought enclosures that were too small. I had to return them & get these babies. Installed the HDDs. Plugged up the enclosures. Turned them on. Worked. Great. BUT There's always a but. I have these enclosures placed side by side on a rack. There is adequate room between them for air circulation. Plus there is a fan in each enclosure. Things worked great for a few months. Then the HDDs took to spontaneously disconnecting themselves from the computer. It was only by accident, as I was reaching for something near the enclosures, that I discovered there was a tremendous lot of heat coming from the HDDs. Now, why was that? Why would they work perfectly for a few months & then suddenly become woefully unreliable? I mean, I was lucky if I got 20 minutes of use from my system before the HDDs would all wave good-bye. Turns out the season had changed. The weather was warmer. The little fans in the enclosures could push only so much heat. They were probably sucking out the heat from their individual HDDs. But with the enclosures lined up in a row, that heat was just hanging over the enclosures like a cloud. Once the weather got warmer, those little fans just weren't up to the task. So I bought some of those personal cooling fans, clipped them in strategic locations, aimed them strategically, & presto, things are back to 100% reliable. Two fans placed just so have done the trick. I'm not criticizing these enclosures. They've been in 24/7 service for about 6 months now & they've been flawless . . . other than the little overheating episode. But I've remedied that. So I can whole-heartedly recommend this item. But you should keep in mind that they might need a little external help with cooling. Maybe. Your case might be different. This is just my experience. Six of these enclosures lined up side by side, even spaced out, seems to require some external fan support. You do always want your fans to support you.
This houses an 8GB Seagate Barracuda drive that I use for weekly backups and works perfectly for me. The drive fits easily in the enclosure and the power cord provides enough juice to run it, which is important as I have the drive connected to a docking station. The blue LED that indicates power and data transfer is small (thank you!) but noticeable, so I know when the drive is working or sitting idle. Overall feel and quality is great, and the price point is what I was looking for. Very happy with this!
FUNCIONA PERFECTAMENTE Y VIENE CON SU VENTILADOR INTEGRADO MUY BUENA COMPRA
Great product
Este adaptador de disco duro hdd tipo sata a 3.0 es un producto muy útil y práctico, que me ha permitido ampliar el almacenamiento de mi xbox one s sin problemas. El adaptador es muy sencillo de usar, solo hay que conectar el disco duro al adaptador y luego al puerto usb de la consola. El adaptador reconoce el disco duro al instante y no necesita ninguna instalación ni configuración adicional. El adaptador tiene un diseño compacto y ligero, que no ocupa mucho espacio ni estorba. Los materiales se ven de buena calidad y no se ven muy frágiles, aunque hay que tener cuidado de no golpearlos ni doblarlos. El adaptador funciona tanto con discos duros mecánicos como con ssd, y en ambos casos ofrece un rendimiento excelente, sin ralentizar ni sobrecalentar la consola. El adaptador tiene un precio muy razonable y una relación calidad-precio muy buena. Estoy muy contento con mi compra y lo recomiendo a todos los que quieran aumentar el espacio de su xbox one s de forma fácil y económica.
Nice gadget with attached cooling fan, installed 12 TB hard disk working very good
After purchasing the Tablo TV, my reseach into the recommeded external HDD with USB connection, I was dpressed to read of some real horror stories among a few postive experineces. So, I purchased this particular item for 2 reasons: 1. To avoid the reported frustrations of hit and miss and inconsistant quality of the portable, USB external HDD's , even among Tablo TV users. Therefore . . . 2. I wanted the far more reliable SATA HDD which would, by consequence, allow me to use an HDD designed for VIDEO, which have higher reliabilty spefically for multiple streams of video simultaneous recordings of multilple TV channels and playback of DVR's video feeding multiple viewers, and of course this idelly should be docked, but the problem of (and others have reported this) HEAT because these HDD's would be in user fairly frequently and powered continuously, not just used for back up or ocassinal data use. which brings us to . . . 3. I needed a dock or or case that would have a FAN, and I needed to be of sufficient power to truly cool the always on HDD, but the fans on most of the docks/cases have pitiful fans that are cleraly designed for occaional short period use. This item has a button dedicated to the fan being ON or OFF. In my case, using the HDD for DVR use (which includes Live TV DVR functions such as skip back, pause, skip forward, etc. so the HDD is in constant use just watching Live TV) I set the switch/button to the ON position permanently. I've had this unit for nearly a year and it has not hiccupped even once, and it moves the heat out very well and I experience no problems related to the HDD being in this case with fan always on. The low price and good quailyt of this item makes and easy replacement when the time comes, so I am OK if does not last 5 years, as I think it was desinged for temporary use situations, but it sure does well, and quietly so, active 24/7. So, if you have a Tablo TV and need a superior and maybe even LESS expensive alternative to the flaky USB external HDD's, this dock/case is perfect for a Tablo TV. All the necessary cables to connect this unit to the Tablo are included. I think the length of cable included is about 3-4 feet between Tablo TV unit and this device, so if have a greater distance between the Tablo TV and this unit, you should purchase a longer cable seperately. Also, keep in mind that this devoce comes with a power cord as well, so you need access to an electrical outlet in your planning. Again, if you are a Tablo TV user or have a similare situation, I highly recommed this device. I lvoe it. This items fits the bill with a very nice enclosed appearance, but a large and capable (proper?) fan that really moves the heat OUT of the enclosure (you can feel the air moving out). Also, the blue light on top is very small so as not to distract, but brigh enough and easy to see when the HDD is busy working or not, which allows you to know if it is good time to reboot the Tablo TV if you need to due to a rare occurance--but I've had no need to reboot the Tablo TV on more that one or two ocassions and tha twas trying to figure out if the problem was my networkd or the Tablo TV. Further, this item looks very nice and can be left out on, say, the surface of an entertainment center or on the top leval a TV stand (as I have it) in plain sight of visitors, and it looks like it belongs not like some Jerry-rigged solution to having a SATA HDD connected EXTERNALLY to a DVR device like the Tablo TV. Insertion of HDD is fast and painless, although you will have to move the HDD into the connection with confidence and force for a proper connection and fit. Just make sure you have the HDD aligned properly. However, the real prize with this itme is the robust FAN that really