Overview
The StarTech.com PEXUSB3S44V is a PCI Express x4 expansion card that adds four USB 3.0 ports to your desktop PC. It supports transfer speeds up to 5Gbps and is backward compatible with USB 2.0 and 1.1 devices. This card is an ideal solution for legacy systems or any build that needs additional high-speed USB connectivity.
Key Features
- Four USB 3.0 Type-A ports delivering up to 5Gbps per port
- PCI Express x4 interface (compatible with x8 and x16 slots)
- Dedicated SATA power connector ensures stable operation under load
- Reliable NEC/Renesas uPD720201 chipset
- Broad OS support: Windows, Linux, macOS
Compatibility Guide
- Slot compatibility: PCIe x4, x8, x16 (physically fits)
- PCIe version: 2.0 and 3.0 (bandwidth is sufficient for USB 3.0)
- Power: Requires one SATA power connector (cable included)
- Form factor: Standard PCIe bracket (low-profile bracket sold separately)
- Note: Some motherboards may require enabling "Above 4G Decoding" in BIOS
Ideal Use Cases
- Adding multiple USB peripherals (external drives, printers, flash drives) to a desktop with limited ports
- Upgrading an older PC to USB 3.0 for faster file transfers
- Creative professionals or office workers who need to connect several USB devices simultaneously
Important Notes
- The card will not function without the SATA power cable connected; verify your PSU has an available SATA connector before purchase.
- Actual transfer speeds depend on the connected device and cable quality. Use USB 3.0 certified devices for best performance.
- For low-profile cases, a separate low-profile bracket is required (not included).