# SD card and SATA M.2 2280 SSD storage

### Install and format a SATA M.2 2280 SSD for Pearl Nexus

Pearl Nexus normally ships with storage preinstalled and configured, so most users will not need this procedure.

This procedure is intended for the current Pearl Nexus model (ESP1948), which ships with a 256 GB SD card preinstalled and has a standard SATA M.2 2280 port. Earlier Pearl Nexus units (model ESP1882, manufactured before June 2024) shipped with a 1 TB SSD preinstalled and use a proprietary M.2 port instead. A standard M.2 2280 SSD will physically fit into the older proprietary port, but can damage the SSD — installing your own SSD is not recommended on these earlier units.

If you need to install your own SATA M.2 2280 SSD for storing recorded video, Pearl Nexus automatically formats the SSD using the EXT4 format for the Linux operating system the first time you power on. Please be patient while the formatting completes.

When you install a SATA M.2 SSD, Pearl Nexus no longer detects the SD card slot and the SD card option is removed from the Admin panel's Configuration menu.

Any existing content on the SSD is lost when the SSD is formatted.

**Before you begin**

Gather the tools you need:

- #1 Phillips screwdriver

- Appropriate screwdriver that is appropriate for a screw of size M3x.0.5

- (Optional) a pair of tweezers

**Install and format the SATA M.2 2280 SSD**

- Disconnect the power cable and ensure Pearl Nexus is powered off. .
- Permanent damage to the SSD and/or Pearl Nexus can occur if you install, remove, or replace the SSD while the device is powered on.
- On a clean and level surface, turn Pearl Nexus over to expose the bottom panel.
- Use a #1 Phillips screwdriver to remove the SSD expansion slot cover plate. Set aside to for later.
- Use a #2 Phillips screwdriver (if present)to remove the screw that's in the post farthest away from the M.2 socket. Set aside for later.
- Hold the SSD by the edges and insert firmly into the M.2 socket at approximately a 30° angle. Make sure you align the key notch in the SSD with the notch in the M.2 socket.
- Use one hand to gently press and hold the SSD down so that it rests atop the post. Align the notch on the SSD with the post hole.
- With your other hand, use a screwdriver appropriate for a screw of size M3x.0.5 to reinstall the post screw and secure the SSD in place.
- **TIP**: Use the tweezers to pick up the screw if it falls behind the SSD.
- Reinstall the SSD slot cover plate and power up Pearl Nexus.
- The SSD is formatted automatically the first time you power on. Please be patient while formatting completes. The amount of time it takes to format depends on the capacity of the SSD. You must wait for the formatting to finish before recording video to the SSD.
- Powering off Pearl Nexus while the SSD is formatting could damage or corrupt the SSD.

> product: pearl-nexus · topic: other · source: pearl-nexus-userguide.md · updated: Oct 13, 2026