Blackmagic HyperDeck Extreme HDR User Manual Using the Optional Internal Cache

The cache feature on HyperDeck Extreme enables you to record up to 8K Ultra HD on to a M.2 NVMe PCIe flash disk in case of problems with your media. This means you can use slower external drives and CFast cards or record to network storage which in turn can be less expensive.

The cache works as short term storage, recording your video and audio to the internal M.2 PCIe flash disk before transferring the files to your selected media in 5 second segments. These 5 second segments then make up a single continuous file on your storage media.

Once you’ve installed a PCIe flash disk, all future recordings will be saved to the cache prior to your storage media. Even if you turn your HyperDeck Extreme off, any files recorded prior that weren’t transferred to a CFast card or external disk will still be there!

Choosing your M.2 NVMe PCIe Flash Disk

When choosing an M.2 NVMe PCIe flash disk for the cache, it is a good idea to keep in mind future workflows and not just current ones. By selecting a flash disk that is capable of recording the highest frame rates and resolutions, you can be sure you won’t miss a frame, even with the slowest CFast cards or external disks.

The following M.2 PCIe flash disks are recommended for 8K Apple Pro Res HQ up to 60 fps.

The following M.2 PCIe flash disks are recommended for cache recording 8K ProRes 422 up to 60 fps.

The following M.2 PCIe flash disks are recommended for cache recording Ultra HD ProRes 422 up to 60 fps.

Installing The Cache

Installing a M.2 PCIe flash disk is easy and only needs to be done once. You can access the cache location via a removable panel underneath the unit. There are four different length M.2 PCIe flash disks you can use; 2242, 2260, 2280 & 22110. The numbers relate to the width and length of your NVMe, so a 2242 is 22 millimeters wide by 42 millimeters long.

If needed, the standoff and screw can be relocated to the suitable slot on the board.

To install the cache:

1. Disconnect your HyperDeck Extreme from the power source. You can leave other cables connected, but you may find it easier to remove them.

2. Turn the unit upside down and unfasten the 6 screws from the cover plate to remove it.

   

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   NOTE HyperDeck Extreme ships with thermally conductive heat pads pre installed to fill the air gaps between your PCIe flash disk and the unit. These work by transferring the heat away from the PCIe flash disk to the chassis. One pad is installed onto the mother board, the other on the inside of the cover plate. Remember to remove the blue protective film when installing a SSD.

3. Unfasten the standoff mount screw. If you are using a different length NVMe card, unscrew the standoff mount as well and lightly fasten it into the suitable slot.

   

4. Peel back the protective blue film on the motherboard heat pad.

5. Remove your NVMe SSD from the packaging and slide the card into place in the PCIe slot. The slot will pivot up to 30 degrees to help installation.

   

6. Push the card down lightly onto the standoff mount and fasten the standoff screw. You only need to tighten enough to keep the NVMe SSD snug.

   

7. Remove the protective blue film from the heat pad on the inside of the cover plate.

8. Replace the cover plate, the screws will only line up when installed correctly. You will feel a little pressure on the cover plate from the density of the NVMe SSD combined with the heat pads. This is normal as it is how they will conduct heat away from the board.

9. Turn the unit right side up and reconnect your power and other cables.

Formatting The Cache

Once your NVMe SSD is installed you will need to format it.

1. When a recognized NVMe SSD is installed, the ‘cache’ icon will display ‘format’ instead of ‘no cache’. Tap on the icon to open the format window.

2. A window will appear prompting you to format the cache. Tap on ‘format’. This will erase any data on the NVMe SSD.

3. Formatting will begin. Once complete the cache will be ready to use. Tap ‘ok’.

Once your cache is formatted, you will not need to format it again unless you remove the NVMe and install a different one, such as one with a higher capacity.

Cache Icons and Status

The storage capacity of the cache is dependent on the NVMe media size and the codec and resolution you are recording. When you have a valid signal connected to the rear of HyperDeck Extreme, the cache icon on the front panel will display the duration available to record based on your current resolution and selected codec. Tap on the cache icon to reveal cache time used. This is indicated by the + symbol before the duration.

There are four different status modes for the cache: