Other World Computing (OWC) Launches ThunderBlade X12 and Active Optical Cable at CES 2025

Other World Computing (OWC), a recognized leader in delivering high-performance, secure and sustainable technology solutions that improve and extend the life of Macs and PCs, today announced its latest innovation: the OWC ThunderBlade X12, a revolutionary, game-changing professional device. . RAID level solution is the next step in Thunderbolt 5 solutions from OWC; and OWC USB4 40Gbps active optical cable for long-distance connectivity without sacrificing speed or reliability. OWC also announced general availability (GA) of the OWC Thunderbolt 5 Hub, which redefines workflow efficiency with its unprecedented connectivity.

OWC ThunderBlade X12
The OWC ThunderBlade X12 is the answer to film professionals and digital professionals who need a RAID production shuttle capable of offering large amounts of storage at blazingly high and sustained speeds in a portable solution. To be more specific, the biggest problem this product solves is the need for a RAID 5 compliant RAID solution that offers large amounts of storage at blazingly high and sustained speeds to optimize on-set ingestion and backup times, and also has a small footprint so it can be used as a shuttle drive. Additionally, it is also considered a premium editing tool for video editors and visual effects artists working with advanced workflows such as 4K and 6K multi-camera sequences, 8K and 12K RAW video, or stereoscopic 360 VR (spatial video). It’s the ideal RAID for production use and a premium external editing drive for advanced workflows.

OWC ThunderBlade X12 – Key Features/Functionality:

• Speeds up to 6500 MB/s – double the performance of its predecessor
• Capacities from 12 TB to 96 TB with RAID 0, 1, 5 and 10 configurations.
• Premium build with LED backlighting with adjustable brightness and increased thermal stability.
• Ideal for workflows involving 8K RAW, 16K or VR video production.

The OWC ThunderBlade X12 will be available in March.

Active optical cable OWC
OWC Active Optical Cable is the fastest, most powerful, and most reliable solution for cost-effectively connecting Thunderbolt 4/3 and USB4/3/2 devices over long distances. It delivers stable throughput up to 40Gbps, power up to 240W, and video resolution up to 8K at distances up to 15 feet. Featuring universal USB-C connectivity and fiber optic technology, it eliminates the 2-meter distance limitation of traditional copper Thunderbolt and USB4 cables, so devices can be placed farther away for reduced noise, easier access, and hidden for a more aesthetically pleasing appearance. work environment or provide more efficient cable management in professional environments.

Active optical cable OWC – main characteristics/functionality:

• Long-range connectivity ensures optimal placement of USB4 and Thunderbolt 4/3 devices for a highly organized, convenient, quiet and productive workspace.
• Work and play faster with stable data transfer speeds of up to 40 Gbps over long distances.
• Connect to millions of docks, displays, eGPUs, PCIe expansion modules, external SSDs, RAID drives and accessories equipped with Thunderbolt 4/3 and USB4/3/2 USB-C.
• Laboratory certified to safely deliver up to 240W (3M) or 60W (4.5M) of power to quickly charge your devices.
• Supports high-resolution displays up to 8K, including DisplayPort over Thunderbolt, Apple Pro Display XDR, Apple Studio Display, LG Ultrafine, and any display connected to a Thunderbolt dock or hub.
• A braided nylon outer shell over an advanced internal fiber optic cable provides long-lasting signal reliability and immunity to EMI and RF interference.

The OWC USB4 40 Gbps active optical cable is now available in two lengths:

• 3 meters (9.8 feet) for $98.99.
• 4.5 meters (14.76 feet) for $129.99.

OWC Thunderbolt 5 Hub

Now publicly available, the OWC Thunderbolt 5 Hub is the ideal compact connectivity solution to solve the big problem of the shortage of Thunderbolt 5 ports. Now you can turn your computer’s single cable connection into three Thunderbolt 5 ports and one USB-A port. With bidirectional transfer speeds of up to 80Gbps (up to 2x faster than Thunderbolt 4 and USB4) and speeds of up to 120Gbps for higher display throughput, you’ll redefine your productivity.

OWC Thunderbolt 5 Hub – Key Features/Functionality:

• Adds more universally compatible Thunderbolt 5 (USB-C) ports to your Mac, PC, or iPad Pro, dramatically expanding device connectivity and improving productivity.
• Work and play faster with up to 80 Gbps bidirectional data transfer speeds and up to 120 Gbps speeds for higher display throughput.
• No worries or confusion… connect to your computer or device with Thunderbolt 5, Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, USB4 or USB-C with 100% compatibility.
• Delivers the best device performance with today’s computers and the fastest speeds possible in the future with any Mac or PC with Thunderbolt 5.
• Create three separate daisy chains of devices (even bus-powered) and remove devices from one chain without affecting other chains.
• Safe power of up to 140 W to charge the most power-hungry laptop.
• Connect to the latest and future Thunderbolt, USB-C, and DisplayPort displays to experience incredible 4K, 5K, 6K, and up to three 8K displays.
• Built-in OWC reliability and reliability for Mac and Windows
• Fanless aluminum chassis for quiet and cool operation

The OWC Thunderbolt 5 Hub is now available for $189.99.

“Creatives and professionals don’t just need tools—they need breakthroughs,” said Larry O’Connor, founder and CEO of OWC. “OWC ThunderBlade X12, OWC Active Optical Cable and OWC Thunderbolt 5 Hub are not just products; they are game-changers designed to make seemingly impossible workflows fast, simple and seamless.” He continued: “Whether you’re pushing the boundaries of 12K video, creating the ultimate workstation, or staying connected over distances previously thought unimaginable, these solutions are designed to help you create, innovate and dominate.”