StarTech.com 4 Port PCI Express (PCIe) SuperSpeed USB 3.0 Card Adapter w/ 4 Dedicated 5Gbps Channels - UASP - SATA/LP4 Power

If you're looking to enhance the connectivity of your PC with faster and more efficient USB ports, the StarTech.com 4 Port PCI Express (PCIe) SuperSpeed USB 3.0 Card Adapter is the perfect solution. This advanced card adapter allows you to add four dedicated 5Gbps USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports to your system, significantly improving your data transfer capabilities. Thanks to its independent port architecture and support for UASP technology, you can enjoy streamlined performance and faster file transfers like never before.

• Enhanced Performance: The PEXUSB3S44V features dedicated 5 Gbps channels for each port, allowing for faster data transfers and reduced performance bottlenecks.
• Support for UASP: With UASP (USB Attached SCSI Protocol), this USB 3.2 Gen 1 controller can perform up to 70% faster than conventional USB 3.2 Gen 1 when paired with compatible systems, optimizing your data transfers.
• High-Power Support: This PCIe USB card includes an optional SATA or LP4 power connector that provides up to 900mA of power per USB port, perfect for high-power devices.
• Backward Compatibility: The adapter is compliant with USB 3.2 Gen 1 standards and also supports older USB 2.0 and 1.1 devices, ensuring versatility in your connectivity options.
• Easy Installation: Includes a standard profile bracket and a low-profile/half-height bracket, making it suitable for small form-factor computers as well.

Technical Details

• Product Type: PCI Express USB 3.2 Gen 1 Card Adapter
• Ports: 4 dedicated USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports
• Data Transfer Rate: Up to 5 Gbps per port (20 Gbps total)
• Power Supply: Optional SATA/LP4 connector, 900mA per USB port
• Compatibility: Windows 8, 8.1, Server 2012, Linux kernel 2.6.37 or later
• Dimensions: Standard profile and low-profile brackets included
• Warranty: 2-year warranty and free lifetime technical support

How to Install

Installing the StarTech.com 4 Port PCI Express USB 3.0 Card Adapter is a straightforward process:

1. Shut down your computer and unplug it from the power source.
2. Open the computer case to access the PCIe slots on the motherboard.
3. Carefully insert the USB card into an available PCIe x4 slot and ensure it is securely seated.
4. Connect the optional SATA or LP4 power connector from your power supply to the card for high-power devices.
5. Replace the computer case and reconnect power to your system.
6. Turn on your computer and let the operating system recognize the new hardware. Install any necessary drivers if prompted.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is UASP and how does it benefit me?

UASP stands for USB Attached SCSI Protocol. It enhances data transfer speeds by allowing multiple commands to be processed simultaneously, leading to faster read and write performance compared to traditional USB protocols.

2. Is this card compatible with my older USB devices?

Yes, the StarTech.com 4 Port PCI Express USB 3.0 Card Adapter is backward compatible with USB 2.0 and USB 1.1 devices, ensuring that you can still use your existing peripherals.

3. How much power does each USB port provide?

Each USB port can provide up to 900mA of power for USB 3.2 Gen 1 devices when connected to the optional power supply, and 500mA for USB 2.0 devices.

4. Do I need to install any drivers for this card?

The card is generally recognized by modern operating systems, but you may need to install drivers depending on your system configuration. Check the manufacturer's website for the latest drivers if necessary.

5. Can I use this card with a small form-factor computer?

Absolutely! The card comes with both standard and low-profile/half-height brackets to accommodate both standard and small form-factor cases.