Other World Computing (OWC), a prominent name in Mac accessories and storage, has unveiled three new products at CES 2025, all meticulously designed to complement the latest Apple Mac mini M4 Pro, the first Mac to incorporate the groundbreaking Thunderbolt 5 technology. This trio of offerings aims to capitalize on the increased speeds and versatility offered by this new standard, providing users with enhanced workflow efficiency and expanded connectivity options. The announcements include the OWC ThunderBlade X12, a high-performance RAID solution, the OWC USB4 40Gb/s Active Optical Cable for extended-range connectivity, and the general availability of the OWC Thunderbolt 5 Hub.
The OWC ThunderBlade X12 stands as a testament to OWC’s commitment to providing cutting-edge storage solutions for demanding professionals. Designed for the film industry and digital imaging technicians (DITs), this portable RAID system boasts impressive storage capacities and blistering transfer speeds, making it ideal for handling the massive data loads associated with modern film production. Its support for RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10 configurations offers users flexibility in prioritizing speed, redundancy, or a balance of both. With sustained speeds reaching up to 6,500MB/s – double the performance of its predecessor – the ThunderBlade X12 streamlines the ingestion and backup of high-resolution footage, significantly reducing on-set downtime. Beyond its on-set applications, the ThunderBlade X12 also serves as a premium editing drive for video editors and VFX artists working with demanding formats like 4K, 6K, 8K, and even 12K RAW video, as well as stereoscopic 360 VR. Its robust design incorporates dimmable LED lights and enhanced thermal stability, ensuring reliable performance during extended use with high-bandwidth workflows.
OWC has also introduced a solution for long-distance connectivity with the OWC USB4 40Gb/s Active Optical Cable. This innovative cable overcomes the distance limitations of traditional copper-based Thunderbolt and USB4 cables, allowing for stable data transfer at speeds of up to 40Gb/s over distances of up to 15 feet. This extended reach allows for more flexible placement of peripherals, reducing cable clutter and improving workspace organization. The cable also supports up to 240W of power delivery, enabling rapid charging of connected devices. Its compatibility with Thunderbolt 4/3 and USB4/3/2 standards, along with its support for up to 8K video resolution, makes it a versatile solution for connecting a wide range of devices, including docks, displays, eGPUs, and external storage. The OWC Active Optical Cable’s robust construction, featuring a braided nylon exterior and advanced internal fiber optic technology, ensures durability and minimizes signal interference.
Rounding out OWC’s CES announcements is the general availability of the OWC Thunderbolt 5 Hub. This compact device addresses the limited number of Thunderbolt 5 ports on newer Macs by expanding a single port into three Thunderbolt 5 ports and one USB-A port. With data transfer speeds of up to 80Gb/s – twice the speed of Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 – and a total bandwidth of up to 120Gb/s, the hub facilitates high-speed data transfer and supports the connection of multiple high-bandwidth devices simultaneously. It maintains backward compatibility with previous Thunderbolt and USB standards, ensuring seamless integration with existing peripherals. The hub’s 140W power delivery capacity is sufficient for charging even the most power-demanding laptops, while its aluminum enclosure and fanless design contribute to a quiet and professional workspace.
The OWC ThunderBlade X12 epitomizes OWC’s focus on delivering high-performance storage solutions tailored to the needs of professional filmmakers and video editors. Its impressive speed, robust design, and flexible RAID configurations make it a compelling option for handling the demanding workflows of modern film production and post-production. By addressing the need for fast, reliable, and portable RAID storage, the ThunderBlade X12 empowers professionals to work efficiently and effectively, whether on set or in the studio.
The OWC USB4 40Gb/s Active Optical Cable represents a significant advancement in connectivity, offering a reliable and high-performance solution for extending the reach of Thunderbolt and USB4 devices. By overcoming the distance limitations of traditional copper cables, this innovative cable promotes a cleaner and more organized workspace while ensuring high-speed data transfer and ample power delivery. Its compatibility with a wide range of devices and standards makes it a versatile solution for both professional and personal use.
The OWC Thunderbolt 5 Hub completes OWC’s suite of new offerings by providing a much-needed expansion solution for the latest Thunderbolt 5-equipped Macs. Its high-speed data transfer capabilities, backward compatibility, and robust power delivery make it an essential accessory for maximizing the connectivity potential of these cutting-edge machines. The hub’s compact and elegant design ensures it seamlessly integrates into any workspace, while its fanless operation maintains a quiet and professional environment. With these three new products, OWC continues its tradition of delivering innovative solutions that enhance productivity and streamline workflows for Mac users.
