ORICO PFU3-2P USB 3.0 2 Port PCI Express Adapter Card User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your ORICO PFU3-2P USB 3.0 2 Port PCI Express Adapter Card. This card allows you to add two high-speed USB 3.0 ports to your desktop computer, enhancing data transfer capabilities. Please read this manual thoroughly before installation and use to ensure proper functionality and safety.

2. Safety Information

• Always power off and unplug your computer from the power outlet before opening the case or installing any internal components.
• Wear an anti-static wrist strap or frequently touch a grounded metal object to discharge static electricity, which can damage electronic components.
• Handle the adapter card by its edges to avoid touching the gold connectors or other components.
• Ensure proper ventilation inside your computer case to prevent overheating.
• Keep the product away from moisture, dust, and extreme temperatures.

3. Package Contents

Please verify that all items are present in your package:

• ORICO PFU3-2P USB 3.0 PCI Express Adapter Card
• Low-profile bracket (may be pre-installed or included separately)
• Mounting screws (typically included with your computer case)

Note: A SATA to Molex power cable or similar internal power cable may be required for stable operation, especially when connecting high-power USB devices. This cable is typically not included and must be purchased separately if your power supply does not have a compatible connector.

4. Product Overview

The ORICO PFU3-2P card provides two external USB 3.0 ports, offering data transfer speeds up to 5 Gbps. It is designed to fit into a standard PCI Express slot in your desktop computer.

Figure 1: ORICO PFU3-2P Adapter Card (Front View)

Key components include:

• USB 3.0 Ports: Two external ports for connecting USB 3.0 devices.
• PCI Express Connector: Interface for connecting to the motherboard's PCIe slot.
• Molex Power Connector: An optional or necessary power input for providing additional power to the USB ports, especially for power-hungry devices.

Figure 2: ORICO PFU3-2P Adapter Card (Rear Angled View with Power Connector)

5. Setup and Installation

5.1 Hardware Installation

1. Power Off: Shut down your computer completely and unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.
2. Open Case: Remove the side panel of your computer case to access the motherboard.
3. Locate PCI Express Slot: Identify an available PCI Express slot (typically PCIe x1, x4, x8, or x16) on your motherboard. Remove the corresponding metal cover from the back of the computer case.
4. Insert Card: Carefully align the ORICO PFU3-2P adapter card with the chosen PCIe slot and press down firmly until it is securely seated.
5. Secure Card: Use a screw to fasten the adapter card's bracket to the computer case.
6. Connect Power (Optional/Recommended): If you plan to connect high-power USB devices or experience instability, connect a Molex power cable from your power supply to the Molex connector on the adapter card. Ensure the connection is firm.
7. Close Case: Replace the computer's side panel.
8. Power On: Plug the power cord back into the wall outlet and power on your computer.

Figure 3: ORICO PFU3-2P Adapter Card (Bracket Removed)

5.2 Software Installation (Drivers)

The ORICO PFU3-2P card typically uses standard USB 3.0 host controller drivers. Driver installation varies by operating system:

• Windows: For most modern Windows operating systems (Windows 8, 10, 11), the card should be plug-and-play, with drivers automatically installed by the system. If drivers are not automatically detected, check Windows Update or the ORICO official website for specific driver downloads.
• macOS: Drivers for macOS are natively included in OS X Mountain Lion (10.8.2) and later versions as part of the operating system updates. For older versions like Snow Leopard or Lion, third-party drivers may be required. Please consult ORICO's official support resources for compatibility with specific macOS versions, especially newer releases like OS X 10.11 (El Capitan) and beyond, as compatibility can vary.
• Linux: Most modern Linux distributions include native support for USB 3.0 host controllers. If issues arise, consult your distribution's documentation or community forums.

6. Operating Instructions

Once the card is installed and drivers are recognized by your operating system, you can begin using the USB 3.0 ports:

• Connect your USB 3.0 compatible devices (e.g., external hard drives, flash drives, cameras) to the blue USB 3.0 ports on the adapter card.
• For optimal performance, ensure that both the connected device and its cable are USB 3.0 compatible. USB 2.0 devices will function but at USB 2.0 speeds.
• Always safely eject USB storage devices through your operating system before disconnecting them to prevent data corruption.

7. Maintenance

The ORICO PFU3-2P adapter card requires minimal maintenance:

• Keep your computer's interior clean and free of dust to ensure proper airflow and prevent component overheating.
• Periodically check for updated drivers on the ORICO official website or through your operating system's update mechanism.
• Avoid physical impact or bending of the card.

8. Troubleshooting

• Card Not Detected:
  • Ensure the card is fully seated in the PCI Express slot.
  • Try a different PCI Express slot if available.
  • Verify that your motherboard's BIOS/UEFI settings are configured to enable PCIe slots.
• USB Devices Not Working or Disconnecting:
  • Confirm the Molex power connector on the card is securely connected to your power supply. This is crucial for stable operation, especially with multiple or high-power USB devices.
  • Test the USB device on another port or computer to rule out device issues.
  • Ensure correct drivers are installed for your operating system.
  • For macOS users, verify compatibility with your specific OS version. Older OS X versions or very new ones might require specific driver solutions or have known compatibility limitations.
• Slow USB 3.0 Speeds:
  • Ensure both the connected device and the USB cable are USB 3.0 compatible.
  • Verify that the correct USB 3.0 drivers are installed.
  • Check for other background processes that might be consuming system resources.

9. Specifications

10. Warranty and Support

ORICO products typically come with a manufacturer's warranty. For specific warranty terms, technical support, or driver updates, please visit the official ORICO website or contact their customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.