StarTech.com PCI Express to PCI Adapter Card User Manual

1. Introduction

The StarTech.com PEX1PCI1 PCI Express to PCI Adapter Card allows you to integrate older low-profile PCI expansion cards into modern server or desktop motherboards equipped with PCI Express slots. This adapter provides a seamless bridge between PCIe 1x slots and a low-profile PCI slot, extending the utility of your existing PCI hardware in newer systems. It is compliant with PCI Express Specification 1.0a and PCI Specification 2.2.

A versatile solution, this adapter supports both PCI and PCI-X cards and includes an LP4 power connector to support universal voltage PCI cards (3.3V/5V). A spare full-size bracket is also included for installation in larger desktop or server PCI Express slots. The innovative bracket design ensures secure installation of low-profile PCI or PCI-X cards.

2. Safety Warnings

Please read and understand the following safety warnings before handling or installing the adapter card.

• Static Electricity: Always discharge static electricity by using an anti-static wrist strap or grounding yourself before handling the component. Static discharge can damage devices and cause injury.
• Sharp Edges: Be cautious when handling the device, as some edges or components may be sharp. Wear gloves if necessary to avoid cuts or abrasions.
• Power Off Before Handling: Ensure the host device is powered off and unplugged before installing or removing the adapter. Working with powered systems may lead to electric shocks or damage to components.

3. Package Contents

This image displays the retail packaging for the StarTech.com PEX1PCI1 adapter card, along with its contents. The box is white with the StarTech.com logo and product description. Laid out in front of the box are the adapter card itself, a spare standard PCI bracket, and an installation guide. The adapter card is green with a white PCI slot and a black, red, and yellow LP4 power cable attached.

The package should contain the following items:

• 1 x PEX1PCI1 PCI Express to PCI Adapter Card
• 1 x Spare Standard PCI Bracket
• 1 x Installation Guide

4. Setup and Installation

Follow these steps to properly install your StarTech.com PEX1PCI1 adapter card and the PCI expansion card.

1. Prepare your system: Ensure your computer is powered off and unplugged from the wall outlet. Open the computer case to access the motherboard's expansion slots.
2. Install the PCI Express to PCI Adapter Card:
   

   This image shows an angled view of the StarTech.com PEX1PCI1 adapter card. It features a green circuit board, a white PCI slot, a silver mounting bracket, and an attached LP4 power cable with red, yellow, and black wires. The card is designed to convert a PCIe slot into a PCI slot.

   Locate an available PCI Express (PCIe) x1 slot on your motherboard. Carefully align the adapter card with the slot and press down firmly until it is securely seated. Secure the adapter card's bracket to the computer case with a screw.
3. Connect Power:
   

   This image provides a top-down view of the StarTech.com PEX1PCI1 adapter card. It highlights the green PCB, the white PCI slot, and the attached LP4 power connector with its distinct red, yellow, and black wires. The card's components and circuitry are clearly visible.

   Connect the LP4 power connector from the adapter card to an available LP4 power connector from your computer's power supply. This connection is crucial for providing power to the PCI card that will be installed.
4. Install the PCI Expansion Card:
   

   This image shows a side profile of the StarTech.com PEX1PCI1 adapter card, emphasizing the white PCI slot where a legacy PCI card would be inserted. The green circuit board and the silver mounting bracket are also visible, illustrating the card's form factor.
   Insert your low-profile PCI expansion card into the white PCI slot on the adapter card. Ensure it is fully seated. If your PCI card is not low-profile, you may need to use the included spare full-size bracket or perform case modifications for proper fitment, as noted by some users.
5. Secure the PCI Card: Secure the PCI card's bracket to the adapter card's bracket using the innovative design, or to the computer case if applicable.
6. Close the case: Once all connections are secure, close your computer case and reconnect all peripherals and power.

5. Operating Instructions

The StarTech.com PEX1PCI1 adapter card is designed for plug-and-play operation. It does not require any additional drivers or software installation. Once installed, the operating system should automatically detect the PCI card connected to the adapter, allowing it to function as if it were installed directly into a native PCI slot.

Simply power on your computer after installation. The adapter acts as a bridge, converting the PCIe signal to PCI, enabling your legacy PCI card to communicate with your modern system.

6. Maintenance

The PEX1PCI1 adapter card requires minimal maintenance.

• Cleaning: Periodically, you may use compressed air to gently remove dust buildup from the card and surrounding components within your computer case to ensure optimal airflow and prevent overheating.
• Physical Inspection: Ensure all connections remain secure. Avoid physical stress on the card or its connectors.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your PEX1PCI1 adapter card, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

• No Detection of PCI Card:
  • Ensure the adapter card is fully seated in the PCIe slot.
  • Verify the LP4 power connector is securely attached to both the adapter card and the power supply.
  • Confirm the PCI expansion card is correctly and fully seated in the adapter's PCI slot.
  • Since no drivers are required for the adapter itself, ensure that the drivers for your specific PCI expansion card are correctly installed for your operating system.
• System Instability or Peripheral Conflicts (especially on 64-bit systems):
  • Some users have reported that the 32-bit Pericom PCI bridge used in this adapter can be sensitive to its placement in a 64-bit environment and may request a 1MB memory window from the BIOS, potentially disabling other peripherals.
  • Try installing the adapter in a different PCIe slot if available.
  • Check your motherboard's BIOS/UEFI settings for options related to PCI or PCIe slot configuration, memory allocation, or legacy device support.
• Physical Fit Issues:
  • The adapter raises the PCI card by approximately 1.5 to 2.0 inches from the motherboard. Ensure your computer case has sufficient clearance.
  • If using a full-height PCI card, you may need to use the included spare full-size bracket or modify your computer case to accommodate the card's height and rear ports.
• General System Check:
  • Ensure your computer's power supply has adequate wattage for all installed components, including the new PCI card.
  • Check for any BIOS updates for your motherboard that might improve compatibility with expansion cards.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Technical Support

This StarTech.com product is backed by a 2-Year Warranty.

For technical support, product information, or to access drivers and manuals, please visit the official StarTech.com support website: startech.com/support.

You can also find product-specific information by scanning the QR code on the product or visiting startech.com/q/PEX1PCI1.