StarTech.com Thunderbolt 3 to 10GbE Fiber Network Chassis - External PCIe Enclosure with 2 Open SFP+ Ports

The StarTech.com Thunderbolt 3 to 10GbE Fiber Network Chassis is the definitive solution for professionals who require ultra-fast networking and flexible PCIe expansion from a compact external enclosure. Designed to bridge Thunderbolt 3-enabled hosts to high-performance 10GbE fiber networks, this chassis delivers the bandwidth, reliability, and expandability that modern workflows demand. With two open SFP+ ports, it provides immediate dual-link capabilities, enabling link aggregation for higher throughput or independent, redundant connections to mission-critical storage and network resources. The external PCIe enclosure format means you can add a PCIe card to accelerate workloads, whether you need a high-speed NIC, storage controller, or accelerator, without modifying your workstation. Its rugged aluminum construction, quiet operation, and straightforward installation make it suitable for professional studios, data centers, engineering labs, and enterprise workstations alike. This chassis is a future-proof investment for editors handling 4K/8K workflows, virtualization environments, and fast data transfer pipelines, ensuring your system remains agile as your networking needs evolve.

• Thunderbolt 3 bridge to 10GbE fiber: Leverage Thunderbolt 3’s high-bandwidth interface to connect a host computer to a dedicated 10GbE fiber network, delivering low latency and robust performance for demanding data-intensive tasks.
• Two open SFP+ ports for flexible fiber networking: Dual 10GbE SFP+ ports support a wide range of transceivers, enabling either dual-link configurations or aggregated links for elevated throughput and network resilience. Suitable for single-mode or multi-mode fiber based on the transceivers you choose.
• External PCIe enclosure for PCIe expansion: Install compatible PCIe cards inside the chassis to expand capabilities—from high-speed NICs and storage controllers to GPU acceleration or other PCIe devices—without opening or modifying your host system.
• Cross-platform compatibility and reliability: Built to work with macOS and Windows environments on Thunderbolt 3-equipped machines, with driver support for PCIe cards as required by the installed components.
• Durable design with practical portability: An aluminum enclosure provides solid durability, effective heat dissipation, and quiet operation. An external power supply ensures stable performance for long-running tasks in studios and data centers alike.

Technical Details of StarTech.com Thunderbolt 3 to 10GbE Fiber Network Chassis

• Product name: StarTech.com Thunderbolt 3 to 10GbE Fiber Network Chassis - External PCIe enclosure with 2 Open SFP+ Ports
• Host interface: Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C connector) to the workstation
• Networking ports: 2 x open SFP+ slots for 10GbE fiber networking
• PCIe expansion: External PCIe enclosure designed to house PCIe cards (slot configuration may vary by model)
• Power: External power supply required
• Material: Aluminum chassis for durability and efficient heat dissipation
• Operating system compatibility: macOS and Windows supported on Thunderbolt 3-enabled systems

How to install StarTech.com Thunderbolt 3 to 10GbE Fiber Network Chassis

• Step 1 — Prepare your workspace: Power off your computer and the enclosure before making any connections to prevent static or electrical issues.
• Step 2 — Install PCIe card (optional): If you plan to use a PCIe card inside the enclosure, carefully install it into the PCIe expansion slot according to the card manufacturer’s instructions and ensure it is firmly seated.
• Step 3 — Connect the power supply: Attach the external power adapter to the chassis and plug it into a reliable power source to ensure stable operation.
• Step 4 — Establish the Thunderbolt connection: Use a certified Thunderbolt 3 cable to connect the chassis to your Thunderbolt 3-enabled computer. Verify that the host system recognizes the enclosure in the operating system.
• Step 5 — Configure networking: Install any required SFP+ transceivers and fiber cables into the two open SFP+ ports, then connect to your network devices such as switches or storage arrays. Configure NIC settings, link aggregation, or bonding as needed for your workload.
• Step 6 — Install drivers and software (if needed): If your PCIe card requires drivers, install them from the manufacturer’s site and reboot if prompted. Some basic functionality may be plug-and-play, depending on the card and OS.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What kind of connectivity does this chassis provide? A: It provides a Thunderbolt 3 host connection to a dual 10GbE fiber network via two open SFP+ ports, enabling high-speed networking with PCIe expansion options based on the installed card(s).
• Q: Do I need a PCIe card to use the SFP+ ports? A: The SFP+ ports themselves enable 10GbE fiber connectivity; a compatible network interface card (NIC) or media device may be required to utilize the ports depending on your setup. The enclosure supports PCIe cards for additional functionality if installed.
• Q: Is the enclosure compatible with macOS and Windows? A: Yes. The StarTech enclosure is designed for Thunderbolt 3-enabled devices and works with supported macOS and Windows systems; some PCIe cards may require drivers.
• Q: What type of fiber transceivers do I need? A: You’ll need compatible SFP+ transceivers and corresponding fiber cables appropriate for your network (single-mode or multi-mode) based on the transceivers and the distance to your network devices.
• Q: Do I need software to manage the ports? A: Most basic networking is managed by the operating system and the installed PCIe card drivers. Some cards may offer vendor management software for advanced features.