Interface Card Sonnet BRD-UPGRTB3-E3

The Sonnet BRD-UPGRTB3-E3 is an internal Thunderbolt 3 interface card with a PCIe host connector designed to add high-speed Thunderbolt 3 connectivity to compatible expansion systems. It supports data transfer rates up to 40 Gbit/s and provides a bandwidth of 1.75 Gbit/s for connected devices. Compatible with Windows 10 and macOS 10.12 (Sierra) and later, the card is intended for use with Echo Express III-D and III-R enclosures. The card is finished in green and silver, combining functional design with visual consistency for rack or desktop expansion systems.

Advantages

The interface card delivers Thunderbolt 3 performance with up to 40 Gbit/s transfer speeds and a stable PCIe host connection, enabling fast data movement and low-latency device access. Broad OS compatibility ensures operation under Windows 10 and modern macOS releases, while the design is purpose-built to integrate with Echo Express III-D and III-R chassis. Its internal form factor keeps external cabling minimal and maintains enclosure airflow and layout.

Suitable for

• Adding Thunderbolt 3 ports to Echo Express III-D and III-R expansion systems
• High-speed data transfer between PCIe devices and Thunderbolt 3 peripherals
• Workstations requiring low-latency connection for external storage, audio/video I/O, or GPU eGPUs
• Studio and post-production environments that need robust, internal Thunderbolt connectivity

Key specifications

• Interface type: Thunderbolt 3 (internal PCIe card)
• PCIe host connection: standard PCI Express form factor for compatible enclosures
• Maximum data transfer rate: up to 40 Gbit/s
• Bandwidth rating: 1.75 Gbit/s
• Operating system compatibility: Windows 10 and macOS 10.12 or later
• Compatible enclosures: Echo Express III-D and Echo Express III-R
• Color: green and silver

How to use

Install the card into the appropriate PCIe slot inside a compatible Echo Express III-D or III-R enclosure according to the chassis installation instructions. After securing the card, connect the enclosure to a host computer using a Thunderbolt 3 cable attached to the enclosure’s external Thunderbolt port. Ensure the host system runs a supported operating system (Windows 10 or macOS 10.12 and later) and apply any required drivers or firmware updates provided by the enclosure or system manufacturer. Verify recognition of attached Thunderbolt devices through the host OS device manager or system information utility.

Usage recommendations

Use high-quality Thunderbolt 3 cables rated for 40 Gbit/s to achieve maximum transfer speeds. Keep enclosure firmware and host OS updates current to maintain compatibility and stability. For sustained heavy data throughput, allow adequate airflow within the enclosure and avoid obstructing cooling paths to prevent thermal throttling.