StarTech.com 4-Port USB PCIe Card — PCIe Expansion with 4x Independent USB 3.2 5Gbps A-Type Ports

The StarTech.com 4-Port USB PCIe Card is a high-performance upgrade that unlocks expanded USB connectivity for desktops and servers. Designed to maximize your system’s versatility, this PCI Express expansion card adds four independent USB Type-A ports, each capable of delivering PCIe-era USB 3.2 performance. Whether you’re building a data-rich workstation, expanding a media server, or outfitting a compact PC with extra peripherals, this card keeps bandwidth steady and devices responsive. With four independent USB controllers, you gain true parallel throughput—minimizing contention when transferring large files to external drives, backing up data to a USB hard drive, or running a busy USB hub while still maintaining fast speeds on every connected device. The result is a reliable, scalable solution that blends seamlessly into professional environments and power-user workstations alike.

• Increase capacity and flexibility: Add four USB-A 5Gbps ports to your system, enabling you to connect multiple devices—external drives, printers, hubs, and peripherals—without compromising performance on any single port.
• Independent controllers for true parallel throughput: Four dedicated USB controllers prevent bandwidth sharing between ports, helping you sustain high transfer rates even when several devices are active at once.
• USB 3.2 5Gbps per port: Enjoy rapid data transfers for large files and demanding peripherals with each port delivering up to 5 Gbps when paired with compatible devices and cables.
• Compact PCIe expansion card design: Fits standard PCI Express slots in desktops and servers, enabling a clean, space-efficient upgrade in workstations, data centers, and home labs.
• Broad compatibility and easy setup: Engineered for straightforward integration with common operating systems, allowing you to start using the four ports quickly after installation with minimal driver tweaks.

Technical Details of StarTech.com 4-Port USB PCIe Card

• Ports: 4 x USB-A ports; four independent USB controllers provide dedicated bandwidth per port.
• Interface: PCI Express expansion card designed to install into desktop or server motherboards with available PCIe slots.
• Speed: USB 3.2 5Gbps performance per port, enabling fast transfers for external storage devices and peripherals.
• Power information: Power requirements are not specified in the available product information.
• Compatibility: Designed for broad OS support with driver options to help ensure smooth operation across common Windows and Linux environments.

How to install StarTech.com 4-Port USB PCIe Card

Step 1: Power down your computer and unplug it from any power source. Ground yourself to avoid static discharge and remove the case cover to access the interior components.

Step 2: Locate an available PCI Express slot on your motherboard. The card is designed for PCIe compatibility across slots (such as x1 or larger); verify that your motherboard has a free slot and enough clearance behind the case for the USB port brackets.

Step 3: Remove the corresponding slot cover on the back of the chassis to accommodate the card’s ports. Align the StarTech.com PCIe card with the slot and firmly seat it into place until it is fully inserted.

Step 4: Secure the card to the chassis with a mounting screw and replace the case cover. Reconnect any internal cables if required by your system configuration, then power the computer back on.

Step 5: Install or update drivers if prompted by your operating system. Once the system recognizes the card, connect your USB devices to the four new USB-A ports and verify that data transfers behave as expected at USB 3.2 speeds.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Does the card provide four independent USB controllers? A: Yes. The StarTech.com card is described as having four independent USB controllers, which helps ensure dedicated bandwidth per port and reduces contention when multiple devices are active.

Q: What speed can I expect from the ports? A: Each USB-A port supports USB 3.2 5Gbps performance, providing high-throughput connections for external drives, printers, and other USB peripherals. Real-world speeds may vary based on device capabilities and cabling.

Q: Do I need an external power supply for this card? A: Power requirements are not specified in the available product information. In many PCIe USB expansion cards, power is drawn from the PCIe slot, but please consult the official documentation or product page for exact power details for your setup.

Q: Is this compatible with Windows and Linux? A: The product is designed for broad operating system support, with drivers typically available for common Windows and Linux environments. For exact OS compatibility and driver availability, refer to StarTech’s official support resources and the product page.

Q: Will these ports share bandwidth with other USB devices on the motherboard? A: No. With four independent USB controllers, each port operates with its own bandwidth path, reducing competition for shared bandwidth and improving performance when multiple devices are active.