M.2 NVME - External Adaptor/Enclosure - Firmware Update?

mikeym · 2 Sep 2021 at 12:45

As per the title, is it possible to update firmware on an M.2 NVME if connected externally somehow? I have bought a Firecuda 530 for my PS5 and have 2 mobo slots filled and to use the 3rd, I would need to remove graphics card, CPU cooler, etc.

I think I already know the answer but thought I would ask just in casea.

Maybe some form of hotswap add-on PCI card or similar is available?

mikeym · 2 Sep 2021 at 12:59

Found this, but at around £140 I think I'd just make do with slightly older firmware

ICY DOCK ToughArmor MB601M2K-1B M.2 NVMe SSD Mobile Rack for External 3.5” Drive Bay

marms · 2 Sep 2021 at 14:15

Can you not swap it with one of the drives already in your computer, flash it then swap back.

Minstadave · 2 Sep 2021 at 14:21

Best way would be a direct PCI-E connection so there's no controller sat inbetween.

sandys · 2 Sep 2021 at 14:25

You can put it in a PCI-e slot with a £10 adaptor.

mikeym · 2 Sep 2021 at 14:38

marms said:
Can you not swap it with one of the drives already in your computer, flash it then swap back.

Didn't make it clear in my original post but same issue of taking apart half the PC to swap - admittedly, I'm just being lazy!!!

mikeym · 2 Sep 2021 at 14:41

sandys said:
You can put it in a PCI-e slot with a £10 adaptor.

Good idea, probably the quickest and safest option. Thanks. Means I shouldn't have to remove anything existing I guess. Still a faff uncabling the io panel and dragging the whole machine out of where it sits but better than having to do that and then take out and reinstall half the PC :cry:

mikeym · 2 Sep 2021 at 14:42

Minstadave said:
Best way would be a direct PCI-E connection so there's no controller sat inbetween.

Only purpose is to update firmware

Minstadave · 2 Sep 2021 at 14:50

mikeym said:
Only purpose is to update firmware

Sorry I meant using a PCI-E to NVME adaptor as mentioned above.

I'd avoid a USB NVME enclosure as having the USB controller in the chain may interfere with the firmware update process.

mikeym · 2 Sep 2021 at 14:55

Minstadave said:
Sorry I meant using a PCI-E to NVME adaptor as mentioned above.

I'd avoid a USB NVME enclosure as having the USB controller in the chain may interfere with the firmware update process.

Yes, from what I have managed to glean from go ogling - USB interface will prevent firmware update. Shame really but understandable/logical.