Z2 Mini G3 Using WiFi Slot for M.2 NVMe SSD

[JRJSmith]

I have a Z2 Mini G3, which packs a lot of power in such a small package. I know that it's a little "long in the tooth".

It has an SSD and a SATA HDD. I use it connected via Ethernet so I do not require WiFi.

I would like to add a further M.2 NVMe SSD in the M.2 slot set aside for the WiFi adapter.

Has anyone on this forum done this?

If so, are there any "gotcha's" for me to look out for, please?

Can I just plug one in and make some adjustments to the BIOS settings?

Many thanks

Joe.

[resistencia · Accepted solution]

Hi @JRJSmith 

I don't think you can use that port, the BIOS won't recognize it, then you must take into consideration that an M.2 NVME disk needs 4 lanes (3x4 or 4x4) for its maximum performance, the M.2 Wi-fi connector has only one lane, this means that an external disk goes faster via USB than using the Wi-fi slot.

[JRJSmith]

Hi Resistencia,

That is as I feared. Thank you for your quick response - it is very much appreciated.

Best regards

Joe.

[resistencia]

You're welcome, happy to help