QNAP Dual-Port Thunderbolt 3 Expansion Card

Overview

The QNAP QXP-T32P is a dual-port Thunderbolt 3 expansion card designed to enhance the connectivity of QNAP TVS-h1288X and TVS-h1688X NAS models. It provides data transfer speeds up to 40 Gbps, making it well suited for demanding workflows like 4K video editing, large media backups, and real-time collaboration. By connecting through a PCIe 3.0 x4 slot, it ensures the full bandwidth of Thunderbolt 3 is available for your storage system.

Key features

• Two Thunderbolt 3 ports deliver ultra-fast data transfer rates up to 40 Gbps, reducing wait times for large files.
• Supports daisy chaining of up to six Thunderbolt devices, allowing you to connect multiple peripherals and displays in a streamlined setup.
• Includes both low-profile and full-size brackets, providing flexible installation options for different NAS chassis designs.
• Compatible with Thunderbolt 2 devices when used with an appropriate adapter, enabling continued use of existing equipment during upgrades.
• Direct Thunderbolt connection offloads heavy data traffic from the network, improving NAS responsiveness and overall performance.

Key specs

• Interface: PCIe 3.0 x4 slot
• Ports: 2 x Thunderbolt 3
• Maximum data transfer speed: 40 Gbps
• Compatibility: QNAP TVS-h1288X and TVS-h1688X NAS models
• Daisy chain support: Up to 6 Thunderbolt devices
• Bracket types included: Low-profile and full-size

Connectivity and compatibility

This expansion card integrates seamlessly with select QNAP NAS models, providing high-speed Thunderbolt 3 ports that support a wide range of peripherals. The ability to daisy chain multiple devices means you can connect external storage arrays, 4K displays, and other high-performance equipment without cluttering your workspace. Compatibility with Thunderbolt 2 devices via an adapter ensures your existing hardware remains useful as you transition to faster connections.

Installation and setup

Installing the QXP-T32P is straightforward thanks to the included low-profile and full-size brackets, which accommodate various NAS chassis sizes. Simply insert the card into a PCIe 3.0 x4 slot on your NAS motherboard, secure it with the appropriate bracket, and connect your Thunderbolt devices. This flexibility makes it easy to upgrade your system without needing specialized tools or modifications.

Ideal uses and environments

This expansion card is a strong choice for creative professionals and IT teams who require fast, reliable access to large media files stored on a NAS. Video editors working with 4K footage will benefit from the high bandwidth, while collaborative teams can share resources without network bottlenecks. It also fits well in environments where maintaining compatibility with older Thunderbolt 2 devices is important during hardware transitions.