Frequently Asked Questions: Drobo 5C

Question: What is the Drobo 5C?

Answer: The Drobo 5C is the latest generation of the award-winning platform that started it all. It includes the state-of-the-art USB Type-C connector for a simple way to attach the Drobo to your PC or Mac. USB-C is compatible with both USB 3.0 and USB 2.0. 

Question: How to I set up my Drobo 5C?

Answer: We have an interactive set up guide (walk-through). This will guide you through the set-up process. If you are migrating your drives from another Drobo to the Drobo 5C, steps are included to walk you through this as well. 

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Question: Drobo Dashboard Discovery/Performance concerns

Answer: Identify the USB cable you are using:

First it is important to know the serial number of your Drobo.

If your serial number is earlier than DRA1642, see below:

a. Connecting a host with a USB-C Port:

If you wish to connect your Drobo to a USB-C connection on the host machine you will need to use the included USB-A(male) to USB-C cable with a dongle for USB-A (female) to USB-C connection. 

b. Connecting a host with USB-A Port

Drobo's in this serial number range should work with the USB-C connection turned either orientation. 

If your serial number is DRA1642 or later, see below:

a. Connecting a host with a USB-C Port

Connecting with this serial number range should work with any orientation of a USB-C cable. 

b. Connecting a host with a USB-A Port

If you are experiencing slow speed, reverse the orientation (flip it upside down) of the USB-C end. 

c. USB-C to USB-C cable

Ensure you are using a true USB 3.0 USB-C cable. If this is true and speeds are still slow on one or both orientations, please let us know.