Thunderbolt extension module
Thunderbolt extension enables TaskForce to work on MacBooks with the following interfaces:
- FireWire
- Thunderbolt 2
- Thunderbolt 3, 2016-2017 models
No SSD removal is necessary, the extension allows connecting TaskForce directly to a MacBook.
The extension module comes with:
- FireWire cable (comes in white or black color)
- Thunderbolt 2 to FireWire adapter (by Apple)
- Thunderbolt 3 to Thunderbolt 2 adapter (by Apple)
TaskForce Thunderbolt extension module works with Atola DiskSense 2 as well.
TaskForce features supported for Thunderbolt extension
TaskForce supports the following operations and features on MacBooks when connected through Thunderbolt extension:
- Write protection with the physical source/target switch
- Physical and logical imaging
- Hash calculation
- Damaged drive support
Plug and unplug the Thunderbolt extension module
TaskForce hardware unit is equipped with the PCI Express port on its back panel, which is referred to as an Extension port. It is used to plug Atola hardware extension modules supported by Atola TaskForce software.
To connect the Thunderbolt extension module to TaskForce, do the following:
- Power off TaskForce.
- Align the screw on the extension module and the top screw hole on the Taskforce back panel. Plug the Thunderbolt extension module into the Extension port and fasten the module with a screw.
- Power on TaskForce.
To disconnect the Thunderbolt extension module or replace it with another extension module, do the following steps:
- Power off TaskForce.
- Release the screw, which holds the module, and unplug it from the Extension port.
- Optional: Plug another extension module into the Extension port and fix the module with a screw.
- Power on TaskForce.
Connect MacBook using Thunderbolt extension module
First, write down or take a photo of the serial number located on the bottom side of the MacBook. It will be needed later.
Then do the following steps:
- Turn off both the MacBook and TaskForce.
- Plug the Thunderbolt extension module into the Extension port and fasten the module with a screw.
- Connect the MacBook to TaskForce unit with the help of the Thunderbolt extension and the FireWire cable. Use adapters to connect to the MacBooks with Thunderbolt 2 or Thunderbolt 3 interface.
- Boot the MacBook in the Target Disk Mode. To do that, start it up while holding down the T key. You should see a Firewire or Thunderbolt icon displayed on screen, signifying that Target Disk Mode is detected and working.
- Power on TaskForce and wait for the booting to be completed.
- In the TaskForce main window, open the Device panel.
- Click the port in the EXT section of the Device panel.
MacBook device in the EXT section of the Device panel.
- If it is the first time this MacBook is identified by TaskForce, in the Enter MacBook serial window, enter the serial number located on the bottom side of the MacBook, and then click OK.
Enter MacBook's serial number.
During the subsequent identifications of the MacBook connected to TaskForce, its serial number can be selected from the drop-down menu in the Enter MacBook serial window. TaskForce will look up its case management system and offer the choice of MacBooks with the same drive size.
Select the MacBook with the serial number you have connected to TaskForce.
