StarTech.com 3-Port 2b 1a LP 1394 PCI Express FireWire Card

Expand your desktop’s connectivity with a robust FireWire solution designed for demanding multimedia workflows. The StarTech.com 3-Port 2b 1a LP 1394 PCI Express FireWire Card merges high-speed FireWire 800 and FireWire 400 ports into a single compact card, enabling seamless capture, transfer, and access to a wide range of devices—from high-bandwidth external drives and video equipment to legacy audio interfaces and cameras. Built to endure professional environments, this card integrates cleanly into desktop towers and small form factor systems alike, offering reliable performance without sacrificing space or compatibility. The LP (low-profile) design includes a half-height bracket for compact builds and can be installed in standard full-height enclosures through the provided hardware. With PCI Express support, you get modern, efficient data paths that minimize CPU overhead while maximizing throughput for real-time video editing, data backups, and multi-device operation. Whether you are assembling a dedicated media rig, expanding an editing workstation, or upgrading a server room PC, this FireWire card provides the versatile connectivity you need to maintain a smooth, uninterrupted workflow.

• All-in-one FireWire expansion: Adds 3 high-speed ports — 2x FireWire 800 (IEEE 1394b) and 1x FireWire 400 (IEEE 1394a) — enabling simultaneous connection to high-bandwidth devices and legacy equipment. This flexible port mix supports modern external drives for fast transfers while preserving access to older gear such as audio interfaces and cameras that still rely on FireWire 400 or 800 standards.
• PCI Express performance: The PCIe interface delivers robust bandwidth and low-latency data transfers, ensuring smooth real-time video capture, live streaming, DAW sessions, and large-scale backups. Designed to maximize throughput without overburdening the system CPU, it provides a dependable expansion path for demanding production workflows.
• Low-profile, compact design: Includes a half-height LP bracket, making it ideal for small form factor desktops and compact builds without sacrificing performance or port availability. The slim profile helps maintain airflow and chassis clearance in tight cases while still delivering full FireWire capability.
• Cross-platform compatibility: Engineered to work with Windows, macOS, and Linux environments, enabling mixed-workflow setups and ensuring compatibility with a wide range of software and hardware ecosystems used by editors, designers, and engineers.
• Plug-and-play with driver support: Quick installation with driver support from StarTech; user-friendly setup allows rapid deployment, even in multi-device studios. Industry-standard drivers ensure stable operation across devices and maintain compatibility with hot-swappable FireWire peripherals.

Technical Details of StarTech.com 3 Port 2b 1a LP 1394 PCI Express FireWire Card

• Host Interface: PCI Express (x1) compatible
• Ports: 3 external FireWire ports — 2x IEEE 1394b (FireWire 800) and 1x IEEE 1394a (FireWire 400)
• Data transfer rates: FireWire 800 up to 800 Mbps; FireWire 400 up to 400 Mbps
• Connector types: External FireWire connectors supporting 9-pin 1394b for FireWire 800 and 6-pin 1394a for FireWire 400
• Power: Bus-powered from PCIe slot; no external power connector required
• Form factor: Low-profile bracket included for half-height PC chassis
• Operating System support: Compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux with appropriate drivers
• Package contents: PCIe FireWire card, LP bracket, standard-height bracket, installation screws

How to install StarTech.com 3 Port 2b 1a LP 1394 PCI Express FireWire Card

Installing the StarTech FireWire card is straightforward and designed for both seasoned technicians and DIY enthusiasts. Follow these steps to ensure a clean, reliable integration into your system:

• Power down the computer, unplug all cables, and ground yourself to prevent static discharge.
• Open the computer case and locate an available PCI Express slot, preferably a PCIe x1 slot for optimal compatibility and airflow.
• Remove the expansion slot cover at the appropriate rear bracket location to accommodate the LP bracket if needed.
• Carefully align the card with the PCIe slot and firmly seat it into place until the latch or retention mechanism clicks.
• Secure the card using the case screw in the slot’s bracket and attach the LP bracket if you are using a low-profile chassis.
• Reconnect power and peripheral cables, then close the case and power on the computer. The operating system should recognize the new FireWire controller automatically, or you can install the latest StarTech drivers from the official website if prompted.
• Connect your FireWire devices using the appropriate cables (1394a 6-pin for FireWire 400 devices, and 1394b 9-pin for FireWire 800 devices). Verify device recognition in the OS or device manager and test data transfer with a sample file or device (such as an external hard drive or camera).
• Update drivers if necessary and configure any software settings that require FireWire input or output. For advanced workflows, consult your application’s preferences to route video, audio, or data streams through the newly installed FireWire ports.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What devices can I connect to this card? A: You can connect a mix of FireWire 800 (IEEE 1394b) and FireWire 400 (IEEE 1394a) devices, including external hard drives, cameras, audio interfaces, and other peripherals that use FireWire connectivity.
• Q: Do I need an external power supply for the card? A: No. The card is bus-powered from the PCIe slot and does not require an extra power connector.
• Q: Which operating systems are supported? A: The card is designed to be compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux with the appropriate drivers installed from StarTech or the OS’s driver delivery mechanism.
• Q: Is this card suitable for low-profile cases? A: Yes. The package includes a low-profile (LP) bracket that allows installation in half-height chassis, making it ideal for compact desktops without sacrificing FireWire functionality.
• Q: Will the two FireWire 800 ports and the single FireWire 400 port operate simultaneously? A: Yes, the card is designed to provide concurrent operation across all three ports, enabling you to run multiple FireWire devices at the same time for complex workflows like multi-camera capture or multi-device backups.