Sonnet announces modular Thunderbolt expansion systems
June 16, 2021

Sonnet announces modular Thunderbolt expansion systems

IRVINE, CA — Sonnet Technologies (www.sonnettech.com) has introduced the DuoModo line of professional, modular Thunderbolt expansion systems for desktop and rack installations. The DuoModo line is comprised of three interchangeable expansion modules — a three-slot PCIe card system, an eGPU card system, and a Mac mini mounting system with integrated 40Gbps Thunderbolt storage dock — and three enclosures consisting of two dual-module housings (one desktop and one rackmount) and a single-module desktop housing. Sonnet will also offer four preconfigured systems to simplify the order process for the most popular combinations of modules and enclosures. All modules are Thunderbolt 3 and Thunderbolt 4 compatible.

The DuoModo Echo III Module ($699.99) features one x16 and two x8 PCIe 3.0 slots; accommodates full-height, full-length (up to 12.28 inches long) PCIe cards; and connects them to a computer's Thunderbolt port via the included 0.7-meter Thunderbolt 3 (40Gbps) cable. The module integrates a universal 400W power supply and includes a 75W auxiliary power connector for non-GPU cards that require extra power. The module includes a mode switch that enables the use of three Avid Pro Tools|HDX PCIe cards, and features Noctua cooling fans for quiet operation.



The DuoModo eGPU Module ($599.99) supports up to full-length, full-height, 2.5 slot-width GPU cards, and uses dual temperature-controlled, variable-speed Noctua fans that provide efficient and quiet cooling for the installed card. Sonnet designed this new expansion module with the goal of offering users a future-proof purchase, equipping it with an 800W power supply capable of supporting the most power-hungry GPU cards.

The DuoModo xMac mini Module ($499.99) securely holds an Intel or M1 Mac mini computer to enable mounting it in a desktop or rackmount enclosure while providing open access to its rear ports. The module's built-in Thunderbolt 3 (40Gbps) storage dock provides users with four front panel connections consisting of three 10Gbps USB ports (two Type-C ports and one Type A port, each capable of powering bus-powered devices), and one Thunderbolt 3 (40Gbps) port. An internal USB Type A port is provided for connection of a software license dongle, such as an iLok USB-A, or a thumb drive. The dock also incorporates two M.2 NVMe PCIe SSD sockets to enable users to add up to 16TB of fast storage to their systems.

The DuoModo Dual-module desktop and rackmount enclosures hold any two of the DuoModo modules. And the DuoModo Single-module desktop enclosure holds any one of the DuoModo modules.