SOME QUESTIONS ANSWERED! 1- Whats the Brand? Like I said in the video the brand doesn’t matter as it’s the manufacturer Colorii that produces these for all the different brands that put their own name on it. 2- How is the Airflow? Airflow doesn’t seem affected the opening is plenty for the fans of the Mac Mini. 3- Does the problem remain with different cables? Yes the problem remains even after changing 3 different cables. 4- Does the problem remain when the hub isn’t plugged in? No when the hub isn’t plugged in the Mac mini doesn’t have these issues when being placed on top. 5- Can you use ethernet? Probably as that wouldn’t affect the wifi but you might still have bluetooth issues as some people have mentioned. 6- Does the Stand without the hub work? Yes the model without the hub should work fine without issues as it seems it’s the hub when turned on that’s causing an issue. 7- Can you not connect it to the front of the Mac mini to save thunderbolt ports on the back? Yes you can but then you’d need a longer cable and it would look ugly. 8- Could the unit just be faulty? It is possible but that doesn’t explain why others are having the same issue. THIS WILL BE UPDATED AS MORE QUESTIONS COME IN.
@@MrHtech This tells me three is some emi/ rfi interference going on with the hub because it only happens when turned on, maybe the board inside has a radio or something even though not used.
If there is a problem with RF energy feedback through the USB (or any other cable) you can wrap the cable through a ferrite bead and that should stop it.
I actually just ordered this a few days ago, but I ordered the stand only version as I don’t need a dock since my monitor has enough extra ports. The main reason I got it is so I can access the power button, and it sounds like for that purpose it works well.
I bought a VESA bracket from a guy in the UK who is 3D printing them. It gives me full access to the power button, plus frees up desk space as well. Because it is plastic, there are no RF issues. I had to add a few washers to prevent it flexing to fit my curved screen, but that was my problem, not with the bracket.
I also purchased the same docking station, but no wifi issues, my Mac mini M4 gets 400MGps, is there something in the logistics of shipping the machine? Anyway, I really like the look.
I had the same problem. I did some testing and found if I use a USB A 2.0 cable and hook it us I get full Wi-Fi with the Mac mini on top. The down fall is the internal SSD drive is very, very slow at about 30 mbs and the USB a ports on the front are intermittent. So the Wi-Fi is good if the hub is not connected, or attached with a USB A 2.0 cable. Either way it’s not what I or anybody else would want or use. Because the Wi-Fi works with the USB A cable, it’s not a faulty unit. It’s something with the electronics of the hub. I was disappointed.
Unshielded USB-C cables can interfere with 2.4GHz connections. I bought a USB-C power/hub adapter that blocked my WiFi because the cables weren't well shielded. Using aluminum foil on the cable, or using a _good_ USB-C extension cable worked. Also note that the antenna is partly blocked by the metal ring. The Mac Mini has an Ethernet port... use it!
But it‘s not the Metal itself, it happens when a cable is connecting the M4 Mac mini and the Dock. The Version without the Dock is not killing the Network. It seems the electronic of the Dock is the cause.
Try a different cable from the hub to the mini. USB C cables now have active electronics in the plug ends that negotiate speed/power delivery/charging etc. Maybe the cable is emitting rf which is interfering with the wifi. Also for troubleshooting sake try plugging into the front connectors
Bit apprehensive about the design as the MM4 exhaust is at the back so there is no clean path for the hot air to exit because of the metal piece blocking the exhaust so I think the hot air may somewhat circle back in, are you getting the same temps as without the stand or it is bit warmer?
The Hub has a frequency leak interfering and blocking the wifi and bt radio signals. The hub is not shielded against interfering with wifi and bt on the Mini. Try covering the hub with foil or some material that blocks signals from interference with Mini wifi. Bet you it works and helps determine where the interference is originating. Not a permanent fix, just a try and see what happens. .
@@MrHtech You are probably still getting RF interference. Wrapping it in foil gives something close to a real Faraday cage (which blocks RF (radio frequencies)...
I can say that my GEWOKLIY branded M4 dock from US Amazon does not have this flaw. Normal wi-fi speeds (100+ up 15+ down Starlink) when sitting on dock and when dock is also plugged in from host port to a rear M4 Mini port.
I had the same issue. When I unplug the dock and left it on the hub, wifi works fine. It seems like issue with whats inside there. The m.2 speed was extremely low as well so it was a waste of money.
Had a similar issue with a satachi stand for my Mac mini m2 pro where WiFi signal was diminished by 40-50% Two Apple tech guys tried to sort the issue but failed, then I read that external drives can cause these issues so I moved my two ext drives further away from the Mac mini, WiFi came back perfectly. Try removing the stands internal drive and see if the WiFi issue persists 🤔
On the RayCue website I just ordered base with 40 Gbps for 110 dollars no taxes and free shipping. And thanks for your warning because I was looking at the hub you talked about in this video. I will also be ordering my M4 Mac Mini on January 1st and I already bought a Thunderbolt external ssd enclosure with a 4TB chip and if I add 4TB ssd to the base I will have a Wapping 8TB of hard drive space and Apple did not get any of that money. Happy Holy Days!
@MrHtech Is the Raycue one better ? With no issues ? I can’t find a single review of this one let alone any tests to see the read and write speeds with the 40gbps enclosure.
@@Victoria.Delcourt I'm in exactly the same situation. Saw this video and trying to find an alternative. Zero reviews for the RayCue but this video's description is still linking to it though.
@woutervandenputte1356 I will probably wait for the Satechi one, apparently this spring or the beginning of the summer. It won't be 40gbps though...only 10. Or maybe the Chinese company from the video will fix the problem in their 40gbps version. Honestly, I really need more storage now, but I don't see a viable solution other than a regular enclosure. It is so impractical!
Most of my USB cables are A. But for the mac mini, I use BT exclusively so I don't have cables from the TV stand to my couch. Also Power, 10Gbit/s Ethernet and HDMI are connected. I don't use Wifi. It is so slow, and I also think it's a bit redundant since it's not a notebook. My old mac mini (Power G4) also didn't have Wifi. Storage is external on the NAS, it has 30TB. Fast enough for playing movies.
I have a tiny stand alone Uni hub with all the connectors, sd card slots etc and an external ssd from my old Intel Mac mini and the whole lot tucks away in the back of the desk drawer with the keyboard, trackpad and mouse for a super clean desk top. These stand/hubs are for show when you can pay £20 for a functional hub.
The wifi antenna is at the bottom of your mac mini, mate - and its signal is being blocked by the metal of the stand surrounding it. I’m guessing the stand only version will have the same problem! Try putting a couple of clothes pegs or something under it to test raising it up a bit when it’s sat on top :) Update: Saw your other comment about it only happening when plugged in. Try a) Grounding the hub bit or b) Ensuring none of the metal of the mini is touching any of the metal of the stand (insulating it) or c) using anything non-conductive you can find that will raise the mini up a bit
@@goldmundbyrne7075 the stand only versions don’t have the issue, also if I just put the Mac mini onto the stand without plugging in the dock it works without issues
@@MrHtechI’ve updated the comment with some other suggestions - either way, probs best to find another dock - hopefully the manufacturers will take heed before that updated version you mentioned! And also - check that the host port on the new one will actually support the 40g speeds - and not just the ssd slot! Good luck :)
@@MrHtechany compliance marks on the stand ? Working without plugged in or slower speed while placed beside might mean the stand not just shield the wifi but active interfere due to electrical design ? Just guess …
Apple was smart enough to stick the antennas right in the center of the fan shroud. But anything with poor EMI shielding stuck close to the bottom may kill wifi and bt. I think keeping the mini on its side is probably the optimal play. Not to mention the dust factor.
The antennas are in the cover connected to the metal cover inside so right under plastic cover so antennas are not touching the metal stand…interference is created electronically for the wify and Bluetooth to slow down or fail
I also noticed a decrease in wifi speed on the Mac Mini M4 when using a different type of 4-port 3.0 USB hub! The observation is completely justified! I'm also planning to buy a dock, but....
WOW great insight. I was going to buy this but after seeing your video I will stay away from it. Hopefully we will see a version with more USB-C connections. Thanks so much!!
Would you be able to check if the Bluetooth range/performance would also be impacted? I am considering this dock and I use Ethernet not Wifi so the Wifi issue should not be an issue for me. But I do use bluetooth headset when in the kitchen, so the range should really border me.
The upper side of the Mac Mini M4 and the sides are made of metal. So the wifi antenna needs to be located at the bottom of the M4 Mini. So if you put it on a metal plate the electronics are completely covered with metal. Of course WiFi won't work in that case. It's a Faraday cage.
@@stefan_becker the bottom metal section the Mac mini sits on isn’t the problem as it works fine when the hub isn’t plugged in, it’s when the hub is plugged in the issue happens
@@MrHtech I think they are pointing out that you are bemoaning having to trade a t4 port and obviously that’s what you have to do to connect a hub, or an external ssd, or both in this case. Kind of a silly quibble. The problem isn’t really that it takes up a port. The problem is that the ssd is slow and the hub’s ports are old fashioned.
kita punya problem yang sama, ketika menggunakan sinyal 5G Mac mini m4 saya ga bisa sama sekali terkoneksi wifi, ketika menggunakan 2G bisa terkoneksi, tapi sangat lemah,, tetapi masalah sekarang terpecahkan ketika saya ganti menggunakan kabel original dari hagibis bawaan nya dan saya colokan ke thunderbolt paling kiri di m4 mini, dan sekarang koneksi normal kembali, semoga membantu, tolong dan coba berbagai kabel usb c to usb c yang lainnya kalau masalah kembali terjadi, semoga membantu, maaf saya dari indonesia dan tidak bicara bahasa Inggris, terimakasih untuk sharing problem nya MrHtech, subscribed
I have also had issues with cables not working. I have now replaced ALL of them with Intel certified Thunderbolt 5 cables, and while was in the recabling mood, I replaced all my Cat 5 and 5e cables with Cat 8 ! Maybe an overkill, but will be useful one day when I switch all my hardware to 10Gbps. BIG MISTAKE I MADE.. Not specifying the 10 Gbps port (an extra AU$150) on the base M4. I'm seriously thinking of getting another M4 just so I can transfer files faster. 😞
Thanks for the warning. How is the air flow? Is there much space between the Mac's vents and the metal hole in the stand? I have seen no pictures underneath of the Mac's vents and the metal ring.
I have same hub stand for my M4 Mac mini. And I’m concerned the air flow may not be enough. Because the metal hole is nicely same size as Mac mini air hole. I think the metal hole is a bit too small..
As I was watching your review ironically my order of this very unit arrived! Now I wonder if I should keep it. I do not use wireless as my mini is hard wired to my router. Advice for me? Any other defects? Box is unopened still. 😅
I have way too many usb A midi devices so I’m looking for more usb A. I was looking at this hub a while ago. Now I think I’m going to pick up a usb c to usb a hub. There are tons of those available. I already have a usb a hub but need to check speed. If speed is ok I’ll just get an adapter.
As far as losing a port on the back of the Mac mini, could you not connect it to a USB-C port on front of the Mini, as long as you’re not using the SSD slot on the hub? If the device would work with that cable, none of the other devices that you would be copying Through the device would need thunderbolt speeds.
@@MrHtech I have both front USB-c slots used up with 2 hubs, one with 8 USB-A ports, and the other running a label printer. And because the M4 is mounted behind the screen, I have no issues with looking at the ugliness of it ;-)
Wow! I still haven't recived my dock (I ordered the same exact one!) Never thouhgt it could cause some interference with the Wifi. Thanks for the video!
Weird I got the same one, been using for a week now, and have absolutely no issue with Wifi... Though I am still conterplating on sending it back, for the Raycue one with the 40GBS speed..
Actually I just noticed that the Raycue one with the 40GBS speed only has 4 ports as apposed to the 10GBS one has 10 ports... So I'll probably hang on to this one until they update it with the 40 GBS ports... Kinda like the Memory Card slot, comes in very handy.
I believe (as many have mentioned) the base is blocking the WiFi antenna. Maybe it would work better for those who use an ethernet cable to access the internet.
Since some devices have this flaw, and others don't, you really should name the brand so that we can help narrow down whether there is a connection between the two.
I have the same dock. Not sure if my issue is related to this. My wifi is working fine. Haven‘t notice any slowdowns but i was wondering why the mac mini is not recognizing my airpods or my iphone for camera continuity. I have no issues with other bluetooth devices or airdrop but with the two mentioned functions. I thought it might be a issue with setting up the nvme as home drive. I will check it tomorrow.
Update on my issue. In fact camera continuity didn't work because of the dock. My AirPods still won't connect to the Mac mini. I will return this dock definitely
I’m curious to know why you’re not using Ethernet with your Mac mini setup, it is, after all, a desktop computer. Simply put, you won’t have wifi issues if you don’t use wifi b
@@PeterEmery I have a Tenda (version1 ) mesh with 5 nodes spread around the house (2 storey). I'm now looking to upgrade to something faster than 100Mbps. But finding anything with actual speeds is nigh on impossible (at a reasonable price).
I have to Colorii Stand (not dock) and works perfectly with zero wifi issues. Everything wifi and bluetooth work perfectly as expected. Even have 2 external SSD's and CalDigit Dock under the stand with no issues. So, no idea where you guys are coming from but it works perfectly for me.
@@HeyNiagraFalls like I mentioned in the video the one with the stand sea to work however it seems to be the one with the dock that’s causing issues 👌🏼
@ Gotcha! I mis-understood it as you didn't think it was worth trading 1 port for 5 ports but I get your point about the speed. For me, if only Apple had added 1 USB-A to the M4 Mac Mini then it would have been perfect.
Shame as the design is very good. I could even still make use of the USB ports to hook up some older MIDI gear, in fact it’s kind of ideal for my purposes. If it turns out to be bad sample or they update the specs, I’d take a look, but I’m guessing some kind of electrical interference which doesn’t sound good.
I don’t understand why you have such an issue with using up a USB4/Thunderbolt port? You didn’t explain what you were using up all the other ports for, that meant you were now short of a Thunderbolt port by using the hub?
@@gregclare you get 3 ports , I use 2 for my monitors and then the third ideally for a faster storage expansion which isn’t possible with this hub, if I connect the hub I lose a thunderbolt port for higher speed storage.
@ Thanks for explaining. I wasn’t aware you were using a dual monitor setup. I use an external 40Gbps M.2 NVMe SSD enclosure that gives me ~2900MBps 4TB storage speed. I was looking at the M4 Mac Mini storage hubs as a tidy all-in-one solution, but didn’t proceed due to their 10Gbps USB3 interface being a major bottleneck on storage speed. I’m now waiting for a 40Gbps TB3/4 interfaced version, which I’m sure won’t be too far away.
I had and have the exact same issue on my setachi dock i bought just a week ago together with my Mac mini M4. Right away after setting it all up( Mac on top of the Setachi) and started wifi etc it was disconnecting and behaving weirdly. It worked when i restarted wifi and router etc. And first i had no clue what it was. tried to search for other reasons over internet. But just couldnt get to the bottom of it. Really frustrating and annoying :( Also considered my Mac mini being faulty. Then after a while i found this thread on redit about a guy having the Setachi adn mac mini and his wifi being hindered by the metal in the setachi cutting his mac wifi, and several others said the same thing that the mac mini had their antennas on the bottom and that positioning of the mac mini in general had to be question. Kind of a design flaw on both accounts. But it was an easy fix, so i just moved my mac mini a little to the side on top of the Setachi, so its sort of hanging over the edge a bit now instead of straight on top. Right away wifi shot up and now instead of like 60 Mbps i have around 700 again lol. I wish more people know about this, very annoying and also makes buying the new setachi incoming this spring a bit sketchy as its supposedly going to do the same thing again since its metal from what i believe. But at least now i know :)
@@MrHtech yes! so annoying. But happy i finally got the reason at least. Was about to start calling my internet provider and apple to see if something else could be done. So kind of happy i did not go through all that in vain ^^
I bought one of these and am waiting to receive it. My wifi on my network only being used for the cell phones, TV, tablets, etc. My computers are on an wired ethernet backbone so I'm not going to have to deal with wi-fi on my mac mini. I'm going to test it when I receive it. If it has an issue on my wi-fi, I'll contact the company and see what they say.
What speed are you running on your backbone? I (stupidly) bought the base model M4 without thinking I didn't need the 10Gbps network upgrade. But I was wrong. It is taking me hours, and even days to move TB files from one place to another 😞
@@greghudson9717 2.5 GIG. I'm going to upgrade it to 10 gig. My internet is only 1 gig. 10 gig is local lan between my NAS boxes and my computers (mac and pc) I did get my mini with a 10 gig.
@@greghudson9717I also elected not to get the 10GB Ethernet Upgrade, but I don’t think I will be transferring humongous TB files or large groups of GB files. If you can’t return your Mac Mini M4 to Apple (ie. Past the 14 day period), do you have the funds to buy a replacement Mac Mini with the 10 GB Ethernet, migrate your system and files over, then rest the old Mac Mini to factory default and sell it as “almost new” (to recoup most of your funds)?
@@dovmerrill804 G'Day. I agree that getting a new M4 with 10Gbps and retiring this old M4 would have been ideal, but I've already spent that cash on a 12 Bay Asustor NAS, with 12 x 2TB NVMe SSD's. I'll have to wait for a few more eBay sales ;-)
Try putting it below your router, instead of above it. You might try experimenting with it's position relative to the router. I am not saying it is a signal reflection issue, but it might be. If it is not, think about putting something insulating under the Mini, be careful not to block the airflow. That said, I am quite tempted to 3d print a number of stackable shelves like this, with more cable management, but no electronics. If they snapped in place and were solid, they would be fantastic for TB5 clusters. (I might include some extra fans, but that is it.)
That hub is definitely making some interference with Mac Mini connectivity. As Apple actually put all wireless antenna right in the base of the Mac mini This is at least from what info that I know based from the teardown videos
I commented on a video by one company selling this device, along the lines of how redundant and how ugly it is. If you care about aesthetics or even just space (my M4 sits on top of my desk draw under my desk, in a gap just big enough), this device almost doubles the height. You already mentioned another thing I reckoned was rubbish - USB-A ports. I'm trying to get rid of as many of these things as possible. You lose a TB 4 port at the back by using this device and what do you really gain? Some ugly USB-A ports and a few bog standard card readers. Why do these ports have ugly writing beneath them> As mentioned, the nvme speed is ridiculously limited by 10Gpbs - it means even the budget SSD's that should give 2000Mbps read speed, will be hobbled to 1000Mbps. The wifi issue is interesting - so, as you'll know, the wifi antenna on the mac mini m4 is positioned at the bottom of the device, which could explain the problem! I'm biding my time on a hub, I've got two nvme external enclosures, a 10gbps for backup and a 40gbps for my data. That'll do for now. It's replacing my old ugly SSD docking station - will be good to see the back of that big lump, that requires a power supply! What I want to see is a hub which fits on top of the device - perhaps using a clever thin rubber membrane which "holds" it perfectly in place, or failing that, a quality thin black plastic rim that gently pushes into place on top. I'd want the hub to be no higher than the size requirements of usb-c ports and have one on front and one TB 4 on the back. The connection should be part of what holds the device firmly in place - a TB 4 exactly measured sort of clip - as small as possible - two usb-c male connectors. Finally, space for an nvme, which includes a back venting fan and cooling pads. Adding too many ports seems pointless to me - needs to be elegant, like the mac mini m4 is elegant. Heck, even a single TB port at the back is fine if the primary use case of the hub is simply for nvme storage. Imagine a hub that can fit two nvme drives - on the base model, 40Mbps and on the pro model (which I opted for), TB 5. That would be MEGA expensive, even for the TB 4 option - but damn, it would be sweet. Even if the TB 4 option was like $300, by the time you've added in two good quality 2TB drives for a total of 4TB extra, you'd be under $500, so more than $700 cheaper than apple! I reckon it's do-able at 10mm high - it would be a damn expensive hub, but it would be lovely. Of course, the other possibly more favourable option is an external hub that isn't fixed to the mac at all. The problem with "sit on" hubs, is cable management - there's the expectation that you want all your cables snaking out from it. With an external hub that doesn't "sit on" a computer, it's possible to cable manage far more effectively.
You kept saying "the internet didn't work" but didn't initially specify whether you were using wifi or ethernet. It does sound as if it's only a wifi issue, which as an IT admin, I think you should have specified that "the wifi dropped" and that it worked fine connected to ethernet - which you did mention late into the video. I have seen a short with a vendor introducing a similar product, and the major flaw I saw with the product is that it uses USB-C (presumably 3.2 gen2 at 10Gb/s), instead of Thunderbolt 4 (or Thunderbolt 5 for the M4 Pro chip) I personally am sick of vendors marketing slower USB-C 3.2 gen 2 products to Macs having superior Thunderbolt 3, 4, or 5 ports, especially if they waffle around saying things like "Thunderbolt compatible" and burying the actual slower gen 2 spec.
Yeah, that network issue sucks. Antennae are in the base of the computer, so, it's like setting it in/on a Faraday box. You COULD use a wired connection, but that assumes your Ethernet hub or router is in the same room or you have wired Ethernet there. The other issue is pretty major - who wants a USB-C device without full Thunderbolt capability and pass-through?!? I hope someone creates a stackable dock with a Thunderbolt 5 capability and more ports. If it had a plastic housing, maybe it would be less of a WiFi signal ground...
No, it‘s not the Metal, it happens when a cable is connecting the M4 Mac mini and the Dock. The Metal stand without the Dock isn’t killing the network and Bluetooth, so the electronic of the Dock seems to be the problem.
What if you use a different USB C cable to connect it to the Mac Mini? Maybe it's the USB C cable that's not properly shielded and causing the interference.
DESIGNERS! Please: 1. Solve the WiFi issue, & 2. Make it Thunderbolt 5 with Gen4 NVME SSD slot. WITH COOLING FAN (Main reason to buy it) 3. Add Thunderbolt/USB 4 port I/o the right USB-A one!!!!!!
I saw that advertised on UA-cam as one of the adds you see before you can watch… instantly new not to buy as most products advertised this way are suspect 🏴 I bought a uGreen docking station for my Mac mini M4.
The wifi antenna is in the bottom of the Mini and accesses the world via the plastic base. When you sit the Mini on metal surface (or close to) it will block the signal and act as a electromechanical screen. The manufacturer should know this - electronics 101.
The mousepad (foam insulator) shouldn’t solve the problem if the actual problem is “rf interference”. The rf interference (ie. High-amplitude noise signal probably at 2.5 or 5 GHz) is either radiating from the USB-C cable connecting the Mac to the Hub, or it is radiating from the circuitry in the hub (which could be the Hub PCB or internal cabling). The proper USB-C cable should have foil shielding which is grounded, and the aluminum hub case should be properly grounded to the hub PCB, etc. These rf problems should have been caught before the hub passed UL, Canadian, and European safety and FCC rf emissions certification tests.
SOME QUESTIONS ANSWERED!
1- Whats the Brand?
Like I said in the video the brand doesn’t matter as it’s the manufacturer Colorii that produces these for all the different brands that put their own name on it.
2- How is the Airflow?
Airflow doesn’t seem affected the opening is plenty for the fans of the Mac Mini.
3- Does the problem remain with different cables?
Yes the problem remains even after changing 3 different cables.
4- Does the problem remain when the hub isn’t plugged in?
No when the hub isn’t plugged in the Mac mini doesn’t have these issues when being placed on top.
5- Can you use ethernet?
Probably as that wouldn’t affect the wifi but you might still have bluetooth issues as some people have mentioned.
6- Does the Stand without the hub work?
Yes the model without the hub should work fine without issues as it seems it’s the hub when turned on that’s causing an issue.
7- Can you not connect it to the front of the Mac mini to save thunderbolt ports on the back?
Yes you can but then you’d need a longer cable and it would look ugly.
8- Could the unit just be faulty?
It is possible but that doesn’t explain why others are having the same issue.
THIS WILL BE UPDATED AS MORE QUESTIONS COME IN.
@@MrHtech This tells me three is some emi/ rfi interference going on with the hub because it only happens when turned on, maybe the board inside has a radio or something even though not used.
There must of been a bad batch of units. I got mine a couple weeks ago, and it works just fine. No wifi or Bluetooth issues at all
I have another coming so will test it out and see
If there is a problem with RF energy feedback through the USB (or any other cable) you can wrap the cable through a ferrite bead and that should stop it.
I have a similar problem if I put the Mac mini m4 pro on top of an external disk drive because the WiFi antenna is on n the bottom of the device.
I actually just ordered this a few days ago, but I ordered the stand only version as I don’t need a dock since my monitor has enough extra ports. The main reason I got it is so I can access the power button, and it sounds like for that purpose it works well.
@@ericnurko yeh you should be fine
I bought a VESA bracket from a guy in the UK who is 3D printing them. It gives me full access to the power button, plus frees up desk space as well. Because it is plastic, there are no RF issues. I had to add a few washers to prevent it flexing to fit my curved screen, but that was my problem, not with the bracket.
Thanks for the honest review. You will be surprised how many people still use USB-A. The Satechi Mac Mini M4 Stand & Hub looks good.
I also purchased the same docking station, but no wifi issues, my Mac mini M4 gets 400MGps, is there something in the logistics of shipping the machine? Anyway, I really like the look.
No idea it came perfectly packaged no damage
I had the same problem. I did some testing and found if I use a USB A 2.0 cable and hook it us I get full Wi-Fi with the Mac mini on top. The down fall is the internal SSD drive is very, very slow at about 30 mbs and the USB a ports on the front are intermittent. So the Wi-Fi is good if the hub is not connected, or attached with a USB A 2.0 cable. Either way it’s not what I or anybody else would want or use. Because the Wi-Fi works with the USB A cable, it’s not a faulty unit. It’s something with the electronics of the hub. I was disappointed.
Unshielded USB-C cables can interfere with 2.4GHz connections. I bought a USB-C power/hub adapter that blocked my WiFi because the cables weren't well shielded. Using aluminum foil on the cable, or using a _good_ USB-C extension cable worked. Also note that the antenna is partly blocked by the metal ring. The Mac Mini has an Ethernet port... use it!
I wonder where the wifi antennas are on the Mac Mini?
If they are on the bottom it may be that the dock is shielding the signal.
this is correct
I have it too, and there are no issues that bother me, I just bought it yesterday.
If memory serves, people were having this problem with the mac mini m2 as well. Not a new thing. Something to do with the base blocking the antenna.
Yes on my M1 it slowed the WiFi and completely shut down the Bluetooth
But it‘s not the Metal itself, it happens when a cable is connecting the M4 Mac mini and the Dock.
The Version without the Dock is not killing the Network.
It seems the electronic of the Dock is the cause.
I now placed it upside down, so it's more ergonomic.
Guess it would also solve the wifi issue (without dock) for those few people who use wifi?
Try a different cable from the hub to the mini. USB C cables now have active electronics in the plug ends that negotiate speed/power delivery/charging etc. Maybe the cable is emitting rf which is interfering with the wifi. Also for troubleshooting sake try plugging into the front connectors
Tried 3 different ones
Bit apprehensive about the design as the MM4 exhaust is at the back so there is no clean path for the hot air to exit because of the metal piece blocking the exhaust so I think the hot air may somewhat circle back in, are you getting the same temps as without the stand or it is bit warmer?
Between that and the incredibly stupid power button position… *sigh*
The Hub has a frequency leak interfering and blocking the wifi and bt radio signals. The hub is not shielded against interfering with wifi and bt on the Mini.
Try covering the hub with foil or some material that blocks signals from interference with Mini wifi.
Bet you it works and helps determine where the interference is originating. Not a permanent fix, just a try and see what happens. .
But in the video I even have the Mac mini to the side connected to it and it’s causing WiFi slow down
@@MrHtech You are probably still getting RF interference. Wrapping it in foil gives something close to a real Faraday cage (which blocks RF (radio frequencies)...
I can say that my GEWOKLIY branded M4 dock from US Amazon does not have this flaw. Normal wi-fi speeds (100+ up 15+ down Starlink) when sitting on dock and when dock is also plugged in from host port to a rear M4 Mini port.
Thanks for the heads up, I was just looking at that product on Amazon ...
Thanks for sharing this . Happy Christmas to you and yours 😊
I had the same issue. When I unplug the dock and left it on the hub, wifi works fine. It seems like issue with whats inside there. The m.2 speed was extremely low as well so it was a waste of money.
Had a similar issue with a satachi stand for my Mac mini m2 pro where WiFi signal was diminished by 40-50% Two Apple tech guys tried to sort the issue but failed, then I read that external drives can cause these issues so I moved my two ext drives further away from the Mac mini, WiFi came back perfectly. Try removing the stands internal drive and see if the WiFi issue persists 🤔
@@IainByrne but this diminishes the WiFi even when the Mac mini isn’t on top of the hub and is connected on the side
@ these were external drives not internal to the stand, I moved them about 3 feet away from the Mac mini and WiFi was fine and has been ever since
On the RayCue website I just ordered base with 40 Gbps for 110 dollars no taxes and free shipping. And thanks for your warning because I was looking at the hub you talked about in this video. I will also be ordering my M4 Mac Mini on January 1st and I already bought a Thunderbolt external ssd enclosure with a 4TB chip and if I add 4TB ssd to the base I will have a Wapping 8TB of hard drive space and Apple did not get any of that money. Happy Holy Days!
That’s awesome 👌🏼 I’m glad I could help
@MrHtech Is the Raycue one better ? With no issues ? I can’t find a single review of this one let alone any tests to see the read and write speeds with the 40gbps enclosure.
@@Victoria.Delcourt I'm in exactly the same situation. Saw this video and trying to find an alternative. Zero reviews for the RayCue but this video's description is still linking to it though.
@woutervandenputte1356 I will probably wait for the Satechi one, apparently this spring or the beginning of the summer. It won't be 40gbps though...only 10. Or maybe the Chinese company from the video will fix the problem in their 40gbps version. Honestly, I really need more storage now, but I don't see a viable solution other than a regular enclosure. It is so impractical!
Most of my USB cables are A.
But for the mac mini, I use BT exclusively so I don't have cables from the TV stand to my couch. Also Power, 10Gbit/s Ethernet and HDMI are connected.
I don't use Wifi. It is so slow, and I also think it's a bit redundant since it's not a notebook. My old mac mini (Power G4) also didn't have Wifi.
Storage is external on the NAS, it has 30TB. Fast enough for playing movies.
I have a tiny stand alone Uni hub with all the connectors, sd card slots etc and an external ssd from my old Intel Mac mini and the whole lot tucks away in the back of the desk drawer with the keyboard, trackpad and mouse for a super clean desk top. These stand/hubs are for show when you can pay £20 for a functional hub.
The wifi antenna is at the bottom of your mac mini, mate - and its signal is being blocked by the metal of the stand surrounding it. I’m guessing the stand only version will have the same problem! Try putting a couple of clothes pegs or something under it to test raising it up a bit when it’s sat on top :) Update: Saw your other comment about it only happening when plugged in. Try a) Grounding the hub bit or b) Ensuring none of the metal of the mini is touching any of the metal of the stand (insulating it) or c) using anything non-conductive you can find that will raise the mini up a bit
@@goldmundbyrne7075 the stand only versions don’t have the issue, also if I just put the Mac mini onto the stand without plugging in the dock it works without issues
@@MrHtechI’ve updated the comment with some other suggestions - either way, probs best to find another dock - hopefully the manufacturers will take heed before that updated version you mentioned! And also - check that the host port on the new one will actually support the 40g speeds - and not just the ssd slot! Good luck :)
It’s not the metal of the stand. Mine works fine until I plug in the hub to the computer via a USB C cable
No, it‘s not the Metal, it happens when a cable is connecting the M4 Mac mini and the Dock.
@@MrHtechany compliance marks on the stand ? Working without plugged in or slower speed while placed beside might mean the stand not just shield the wifi but active interfere due to electrical design ? Just guess …
I'm having the same situation. Bro, Merry Christmas! 🎄☃⛄❄
Sorry to hear that
Apple was smart enough to stick the antennas right in the center of the fan shroud. But anything with poor EMI shielding stuck close to the bottom may kill wifi and bt. I think keeping the mini on its side is probably the optimal play. Not to mention the dust factor.
I 3D printed a very nice VESA mount, and my mini will be a barnacle on the back of the monitor now.
The antennas are in the cover connected to the metal cover inside so right under plastic cover so antennas are not touching the metal stand…interference is created electronically for the wify and Bluetooth to slow down or fail
I bought the same stand. I started noticing WiFi dropping out today when I was using a browser.
There is always the Ethernet connection?
Thank you very much for the information and warning. I had planned to buy one in the future … 😮🙏🏻
I also noticed a decrease in wifi speed on the Mac Mini M4 when using a different type of 4-port 3.0 USB hub!
The observation is completely justified!
I'm also planning to buy a dock, but....
HOW did this issue get past any internal QA?
WOW great insight. I was going to buy this but after seeing your video I will stay away from it. Hopefully we will see a version with more USB-C connections. Thanks so much!!
Thanks for watching 👌🏼
Probably a USB-A interference issue. Maybe try the Satechi line of docks, those I found to be much more reliable.
Would you be able to check if the Bluetooth range/performance would also be impacted? I am considering this dock and I use Ethernet not Wifi so the Wifi issue should not be an issue for me. But I do use bluetooth headset when in the kitchen, so the range should really border me.
The upper side of the Mac Mini M4 and the sides are made of metal. So the wifi antenna needs to be located at the bottom of the M4 Mini. So if you put it on a metal plate the electronics are completely covered with metal. Of course WiFi won't work in that case. It's a Faraday cage.
@@stefan_becker the bottom metal section the Mac mini sits on isn’t the problem as it works fine when the hub isn’t plugged in, it’s when the hub is plugged in the issue happens
@@MrHtech Then it's probably mainly some interference. But I'm also sure the antenna is not working correctly on a metal plate.
Just exactly how would you expect the hub to work if you don’t connect it to the MM?
@@Halo9K I did connect it ?
@@MrHtech I think they are pointing out that you are bemoaning having to trade a t4 port and obviously that’s what you have to do to connect a hub, or an external ssd, or both in this case. Kind of a silly quibble. The problem isn’t really that it takes up a port. The problem is that the ssd is slow and the hub’s ports are old fashioned.
@@chrischambless it’s not about trading a t4 port it’s the quality of the ports you get in exchange that isn’t to my preference
What monitors is that easel thing?
Thank you so much. You just saved me a hell of a headache and a big waste of money. Keep up the great work.
@@healthandvitalitytoday2231 thanks for watching 😊
If you understand where the wifi antennas are on the mac mini...... they are being coved by the rim that the Mini is setting in.
This was absolutely helpful
kita punya problem yang sama, ketika menggunakan sinyal 5G Mac mini m4 saya ga bisa sama sekali terkoneksi wifi, ketika menggunakan 2G bisa terkoneksi, tapi sangat lemah,, tetapi masalah sekarang terpecahkan ketika saya ganti menggunakan kabel original dari hagibis bawaan nya dan saya colokan ke thunderbolt paling kiri di m4 mini, dan sekarang koneksi normal kembali, semoga membantu, tolong dan coba berbagai kabel usb c to usb c yang lainnya kalau masalah kembali terjadi, semoga membantu, maaf saya dari indonesia dan tidak bicara bahasa Inggris, terimakasih untuk sharing problem nya MrHtech, subscribed
I have also had issues with cables not working. I have now replaced ALL of them with Intel certified Thunderbolt 5 cables, and while was in the recabling mood, I replaced all my Cat 5 and 5e cables with Cat 8 ! Maybe an overkill, but will be useful one day when I switch all my hardware to 10Gbps. BIG MISTAKE I MADE.. Not specifying the 10 Gbps port (an extra AU$150) on the base M4. I'm seriously thinking of getting another M4 just so I can transfer files faster. 😞
Tried it without the NVME drive in there?
Thanks for the warning. How is the air flow? Is there much space between the Mac's vents and the metal hole in the stand? I have seen no pictures underneath of the Mac's vents and the metal ring.
I have same hub stand for my M4 Mac mini. And I’m concerned the air flow may not be enough. Because the metal hole is nicely same size as Mac mini air hole. I think the metal hole is a bit too small..
@@takashiujiky5564 Thanks for the info. That was my concern.
Thanks for the heads-up 👍🏻
What screen do you have in your background please?
@@fabdoesstuffandwhatnot my monitors? They are 2 portable displays by Uperfect unify umax22
@@MrHtechThat's what I meant! Thank you for responding
As I was watching your review ironically my order of this very unit arrived! Now I wonder if I should keep it. I do not use wireless as my mini is hard wired to my router. Advice for me? Any other defects? Box is unopened still. 😅
Give it a test see if your one works, If it’s faulty you can return it
I have way too many usb A midi devices so I’m looking for more usb A. I was looking at this hub a while ago. Now I think I’m going to pick up a usb c to usb a hub. There are tons of those available. I already have a usb a hub but need to check speed. If speed is ok I’ll just get an adapter.
Thank you for video, Mac Mini has ethernet port, I would use it without problems...
As far as losing a port on the back of the Mac mini, could you not connect it to a USB-C port on front of the Mini, as long as you’re not using the SSD slot on the hub? If the device would work with that cable, none of the other devices that you would be copying Through the device would need thunderbolt speeds.
True you could but you would A, need a longer cable to go from the front of the Mac to the back of the hub and B, It would look ugly 😂
@@MrHtech I have both front USB-c slots used up with 2 hubs, one with 8 USB-A ports, and the other running a label printer. And because the M4 is mounted behind the screen, I have no issues with looking at the ugliness of it ;-)
Wow! I still haven't recived my dock (I ordered the same exact one!) Never thouhgt it could cause some interference with the Wifi. Thanks for the video!
Thanks for watching, hopefully you don’t have the same issue 😅
Satechi original mac mini hub people reported the same thing, I never experienced it but many people seemed to.
I'd not worry too much about the NVMe drive speed - it's ideal for Time Machine!
Weird I got the same one, been using for a week now, and have absolutely no issue with Wifi... Though I am still conterplating on sending it back, for the Raycue one with the 40GBS speed..
Actually I just noticed that the Raycue one with the 40GBS speed only has 4 ports as apposed to the 10GBS one has 10 ports... So I'll probably hang on to this one until they update it with the 40 GBS ports... Kinda like the Memory Card slot, comes in very handy.
@@lightcraveentertainment4578 good point, if it works for you I’m glad
I believe (as many have mentioned) the base is blocking the WiFi antenna. Maybe it would work better for those who use an ethernet cable to access the internet.
Use the RJ45. Desktop pc and wifi?
Since some devices have this flaw, and others don't, you really should name the brand so that we can help narrow down whether there is a connection between the two.
@@adiands850 they are sending a new one out so will see when that one comes if it’s an ongoing issue
I have the same dock. Not sure if my issue is related to this. My wifi is working fine. Haven‘t notice any slowdowns but i was wondering why the mac mini is not recognizing my airpods or my iphone for camera continuity. I have no issues with other bluetooth devices or airdrop but with the two mentioned functions. I thought it might be a issue with setting up the nvme as home drive. I will check it tomorrow.
Update on my issue. In fact camera continuity didn't work because of the dock. My AirPods still won't connect to the Mac mini. I will return this dock definitely
Glad you found the issue
I’m curious to know why you’re not using Ethernet with your Mac mini setup, it is, after all, a desktop computer.
Simply put, you won’t have wifi issues if you don’t use wifi b
Router is upstairs and I get great speeds on WiFi , no need
@ You cold use a small Mesh network to bridge the gap. The remote (downstairs) node will have a pair of Ethernet ports doing nothing.
@@PeterEmery I have a Tenda (version1 ) mesh with 5 nodes spread around the house (2 storey). I'm now looking to upgrade to something faster than 100Mbps. But finding anything with actual speeds is nigh on impossible (at a reasonable price).
Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for watching!
I have to Colorii Stand (not dock) and works perfectly with zero wifi issues. Everything wifi and bluetooth work perfectly as expected. Even have 2 external SSD's and CalDigit Dock under the stand with no issues. So, no idea where you guys are coming from but it works perfectly for me.
@@HeyNiagraFalls like I mentioned in the video the one with the stand sea to work however it seems to be the one with the dock that’s causing issues 👌🏼
I'm worried about the same issue, I'm yet to receive the item but this problem is already making noise online 🥲
@@MrHtech We agree. Then it must be frequency interference involving BT and WiFi when the Dock is turned on. Thank you
How is trading 1 USB-C port for 3 USB-A and two memory card slot not a meaningful trade-off for what you're getting back???
It’s not so much the ports your getting in exchange it’s the quality and speed of them ports
@ Gotcha! I mis-understood it as you didn't think it was worth trading 1 port for 5 ports but I get your point about the speed. For me, if only Apple had added 1 USB-A to the M4 Mac Mini then it would have been perfect.
Mac Minis have had issues with USB3 and WiFi before
I've had them with my 2014 MM back in the day
Brilliant info thanks
Is the WiFi of a different type between the mini and the hub.
so I got more legacy usb-A and I got ethernet cable connectivity I shall have no issue.
Shame as the design is very good. I could even still make use of the USB ports to hook up some older MIDI gear, in fact it’s kind of ideal for my purposes. If it turns out to be bad sample or they update the specs, I’d take a look, but I’m guessing some kind of electrical interference which doesn’t sound good.
@@chrisward000 I’ll see with the new one that comes
I don’t understand why you have such an issue with using up a USB4/Thunderbolt port? You didn’t explain what you were using up all the other ports for, that meant you were now short of a Thunderbolt port by using the hub?
@@gregclare you get 3 ports , I use 2 for my monitors and then the third ideally for a faster storage expansion which isn’t possible with this hub, if I connect the hub I lose a thunderbolt port for higher speed storage.
@ Thanks for explaining. I wasn’t aware you were using a dual monitor setup. I use an external 40Gbps M.2 NVMe SSD enclosure that gives me ~2900MBps 4TB storage speed. I was looking at the M4 Mac Mini storage hubs as a tidy all-in-one solution, but didn’t proceed due to their 10Gbps USB3 interface being a major bottleneck on storage speed. I’m now waiting for a 40Gbps TB3/4 interfaced version, which I’m sure won’t be too far away.
@ yeh Il be moving to a single ultra wide soon 👌🏼
I had and have the exact same issue on my setachi dock i bought just a week ago together with my Mac mini M4. Right away after setting it all up( Mac on top of the Setachi) and started wifi etc it was disconnecting and behaving weirdly. It worked when i restarted wifi and router etc. And first i had no clue what it was. tried to search for other reasons over internet. But just couldnt get to the bottom of it. Really frustrating and annoying :(
Also considered my Mac mini being faulty.
Then after a while i found this thread on redit about a guy having the Setachi adn mac mini and his wifi being hindered by the metal in the setachi cutting his mac wifi, and several others said the same thing that the mac mini had their antennas on the bottom and that positioning of the mac mini in general had to be question.
Kind of a design flaw on both accounts. But it was an easy fix, so i just moved my mac mini a little to the side on top of the Setachi, so its sort of hanging over the edge a bit now instead of straight on top. Right away wifi shot up and now instead of like 60 Mbps i have around 700 again lol.
I wish more people know about this, very annoying and also makes buying the new setachi incoming this spring a bit sketchy as its supposedly going to do the same thing again since its metal from what i believe.
But at least now i know :)
Damn that sucks
@@MrHtech yes! so annoying. But happy i finally got the reason at least. Was about to start calling my internet provider and apple to see if something else could be done. So kind of happy i did not go through all that in vain ^^
How are your desktop speakers powered? Why would Apple put the headphone jack on the front of a desktop machine?
Mine are Bluetooth
Some of us use wired headphones in which case the headphone jack on the front is great.
Where else would you put a headphone jack?
@ ummm…on the back like every gen of Mini before this.
@@smithrog34 that seems like a remarkable inconvenient place to plug in headphones. Line-out goes in the back.
Interfering with WiFi is an enrormous problem! It's a complete deal breaker. Thanks for informing us of this fault.
Thanks for watching
Thank you for this review
Glad it was helpful!
A big thank you for the review 😢
@@MrHenkfromHolland you’re welcome, thanks for watching
I bought one of these and am waiting to receive it. My wifi on my network only being used for the cell phones, TV, tablets, etc. My computers are on an wired ethernet backbone so I'm not going to have to deal with wi-fi on my mac mini. I'm going to test it when I receive it. If it has an issue on my wi-fi, I'll contact the company and see what they say.
Let me know if it works
What speed are you running on your backbone? I (stupidly) bought the base model M4 without thinking I didn't need the 10Gbps network upgrade. But I was wrong. It is taking me hours, and even days to move TB files from one place to another 😞
@@greghudson9717 2.5 GIG. I'm going to upgrade it to 10 gig. My internet is only 1 gig. 10 gig is local lan between my NAS boxes and my computers (mac and pc) I did get my mini with a 10 gig.
@@greghudson9717I also elected not to get the 10GB Ethernet Upgrade, but I don’t think I will be transferring humongous TB files or large groups of GB files. If you can’t return your Mac Mini M4 to Apple (ie. Past the 14 day period), do you have the funds to buy a replacement Mac Mini with the 10 GB Ethernet, migrate your system and files over, then rest the old Mac Mini to factory default and sell it as “almost new” (to recoup most of your funds)?
@@dovmerrill804 G'Day. I agree that getting a new M4 with 10Gbps and retiring this old M4 would have been ideal, but I've already spent that cash on a 12 Bay Asustor NAS, with 12 x 2TB NVMe SSD's. I'll have to wait for a few more eBay sales ;-)
I was about to buy this too!
It’s the antennas that the stand is covering man…don’t but even the normal stand one
The normal one seems to be fine
Thank you. I was thinking of getting one. Not now
@@bh4885 glad I could help , will see when the new one comes if it’s fixed
The stand works for me without any issues at all. Get it, and it might work for you. If not, return it.
Try putting it below your router, instead of above it. You might try experimenting with it's position relative to the router. I am not saying it is a signal reflection issue, but it might be. If it is not, think about putting something insulating under the Mini, be careful not to block the airflow.
That said, I am quite tempted to 3d print a number of stackable shelves like this, with more cable management, but no electronics. If they snapped in place and were solid, they would be fantastic for TB5 clusters. (I might include some extra fans, but that is it.)
@@s.patrickmarino7289 my router is upstairs 😂
@@MrHtech, Side by side might work.
That hub is definitely making some interference with Mac Mini connectivity. As Apple actually put all wireless antenna right in the base of the Mac mini
This is at least from what info that I know based from the teardown videos
I connect three monitors so using one of the ports on the m4 mini defeats my purpose.
Exactly 👌🏼
I commented on a video by one company selling this device, along the lines of how redundant and how ugly it is.
If you care about aesthetics or even just space (my M4 sits on top of my desk draw under my desk, in a gap just big enough), this device almost doubles the height.
You already mentioned another thing I reckoned was rubbish - USB-A ports.
I'm trying to get rid of as many of these things as possible.
You lose a TB 4 port at the back by using this device and what do you really gain?
Some ugly USB-A ports and a few bog standard card readers.
Why do these ports have ugly writing beneath them>
As mentioned, the nvme speed is ridiculously limited by 10Gpbs - it means even the budget SSD's that should give 2000Mbps read speed, will be hobbled to 1000Mbps.
The wifi issue is interesting - so, as you'll know, the wifi antenna on the mac mini m4 is positioned at the bottom of the device, which could explain the problem!
I'm biding my time on a hub, I've got two nvme external enclosures, a 10gbps for backup and a 40gbps for my data.
That'll do for now. It's replacing my old ugly SSD docking station - will be good to see the back of that big lump, that requires a power supply!
What I want to see is a hub which fits on top of the device - perhaps using a clever thin rubber membrane which "holds" it perfectly in place, or failing that, a quality thin black plastic rim that gently pushes into place on top.
I'd want the hub to be no higher than the size requirements of usb-c ports and have one on front and one TB 4 on the back.
The connection should be part of what holds the device firmly in place - a TB 4 exactly measured sort of clip - as small as possible - two usb-c male connectors.
Finally, space for an nvme, which includes a back venting fan and cooling pads.
Adding too many ports seems pointless to me - needs to be elegant, like the mac mini m4 is elegant.
Heck, even a single TB port at the back is fine if the primary use case of the hub is simply for nvme storage.
Imagine a hub that can fit two nvme drives - on the base model, 40Mbps and on the pro model (which I opted for), TB 5.
That would be MEGA expensive, even for the TB 4 option - but damn, it would be sweet.
Even if the TB 4 option was like $300, by the time you've added in two good quality 2TB drives for a total of 4TB extra, you'd be under $500, so more than $700 cheaper than apple!
I reckon it's do-able at 10mm high - it would be a damn expensive hub, but it would be lovely.
Of course, the other possibly more favourable option is an external hub that isn't fixed to the mac at all.
The problem with "sit on" hubs, is cable management - there's the expectation that you want all your cables snaking out from it.
With an external hub that doesn't "sit on" a computer, it's possible to cable manage far more effectively.
Nice video! But the volume is a little bit too low
It’s a feature for people who want to go off grid 😂
@@AlexGTech let me guess “I’m using it wrong“ 😂
You kept saying "the internet didn't work" but didn't initially specify whether you were using wifi or ethernet. It does sound as if it's only a wifi issue, which as an IT admin, I think you should have specified that "the wifi dropped" and that it worked fine connected to ethernet - which you did mention late into the video. I have seen a short with a vendor introducing a similar product, and the major flaw I saw with the product is that it uses USB-C (presumably 3.2 gen2 at 10Gb/s), instead of Thunderbolt 4 (or Thunderbolt 5 for the M4 Pro chip) I personally am sick of vendors marketing slower USB-C 3.2 gen 2 products to Macs having superior Thunderbolt 3, 4, or 5 ports, especially if they waffle around saying things like "Thunderbolt compatible" and burying the actual slower gen 2 spec.
Yeah, that network issue sucks. Antennae are in the base of the computer, so, it's like setting it in/on a Faraday box. You COULD use a wired connection, but that assumes your Ethernet hub or router is in the same room or you have wired Ethernet there. The other issue is pretty major - who wants a USB-C device without full Thunderbolt capability and pass-through?!? I hope someone creates a stackable dock with a Thunderbolt 5 capability and more ports. If it had a plastic housing, maybe it would be less of a WiFi signal ground...
I've swapped out ALL my cables to TB5 and it has cured a lot of problems I've had with 'unmarked' TB cables...
Very interesting problem. Have you tried to connect via ethernet ?
Not yet
until they make it 40gbs its not worth getting as will bottle neck
Not if you use it for a TimeMachine backup.
Have you tried connecting ethernet cable?
The hub unit is interfacing with the mini WiFi antenna which is on the base of the mini. Ethernet cable.
No, it‘s not the Metal, it happens when a cable is connecting the M4 Mac mini and the Dock.
The Metal stand without the Dock isn’t killing the network and Bluetooth, so the electronic of the Dock seems to be the problem.
What if you use a different USB C cable to connect it to the Mac Mini? Maybe it's the USB C cable that's not properly shielded and causing the interference.
I tried 2 different ones, same issue
It's $120 on Amazon, crazy, I didn't buy. Most my cables are USB-A.
usb a horray! 2 for my keyboard, one for my mouse....
Why does your keyboard need 2 USB-A port connections?
@@dovmerrill804 that a question only razer can answer.... one for the leds, one for the actual data i suppose
DESIGNERS!
Please:
1. Solve the WiFi issue, &
2. Make it Thunderbolt 5 with Gen4 NVME SSD slot. WITH COOLING FAN (Main reason to buy it)
3. Add Thunderbolt/USB 4 port I/o the right USB-A one!!!!!!
The mini already have couple of USB c why do complain when this device gives the option of a USB a. You are a drama king 😊
I saw that advertised on UA-cam as one of the adds you see before you can watch… instantly new not to buy as most products advertised this way are suspect 🏴
I bought a uGreen docking station for my Mac mini M4.
The wifi antenna is in the bottom of the Mini and accesses the world via the plastic base. When you sit the Mini on metal surface (or close to) it will block the signal and act as a electromechanical screen. The manufacturer should know this - electronics 101.
The metal base isn’t the issue as it works fine until the hub is plugged in
It looks ugly with all the ports on front I would hide it away somewhere if it as me.
Great info and such a shame it looks a nice bit of kit.
Tell me about it
Cut out a mouse pad the size of the top of the base and put it on the top of the base...problem solved...👍
The mousepad (foam insulator) shouldn’t solve the problem if the actual problem is “rf interference”. The rf interference (ie. High-amplitude noise signal probably at 2.5 or 5 GHz) is either radiating from the USB-C cable connecting the Mac to the Hub, or it is radiating from the circuitry in the hub (which could be the Hub PCB or internal cabling). The proper USB-C cable should have foil shielding which is grounded, and the aluminum hub case should be properly grounded to the hub PCB, etc. These rf problems should have been caught before the hub passed UL, Canadian, and European safety and FCC rf emissions certification tests.
Probably would have made more sense to do a proper review once you had the replacement unit, rather than before…
🤔
How so? If I’m not the only person to have these issues