1. Product Overview
The StarTech.com PEXUSB311EI is a 2-port USB 3.1 Gen 2 (10Gbps) PCIe card designed to add one external USB-A connector and one internal USB-A connector to your desktop computer. This expansion card provides high-speed data transfer capabilities, making it suitable for connecting modern USB 3.1 peripherals such as external drives and enclosures. It is backward compatible with USB 3.0 and 2.0 devices.
2. Package Contents
Verify that your package contains the following items:
- 1x 2-Port USB 3.1 (10Gbps) Card (1 external, 1 internal)
- 1x Low-profile bracket
- 1x Instruction manual
3. System Requirements
Before installation, ensure your system meets the following requirements:
- Computer with an available PCI Express slot (x4, x8, or x16 recommended)
- 15-pin SATA power connector (optional, but recommended for high-powered devices)
- Most operating systems, including Windows 10 (32-bit or 64-bit)
4. Setup
4.1 Physical Installation
- Power Off and Disconnect: Power down your computer and disconnect all power cables and peripheral devices.
- Open Computer Case: Remove the side panel of your computer case to access the motherboard.
- Locate PCIe Slot: Identify an available PCI Express x4, x8, or x16 slot on your motherboard.
- Remove Slot Cover: Remove the metal slot cover from the back of your computer case corresponding to the chosen PCIe slot.
- Insert PCIe Card: Carefully align the PEXUSB311EI card with the chosen PCIe slot and press down firmly until it is securely seated.
- Secure Card: Use a screw to secure the card's bracket to the computer case. If using a low-profile case, replace the standard bracket with the included low-profile bracket before installation.
- Connect SATA Power (Optional but Recommended): If you plan to connect high-powered USB devices, connect a 15-pin SATA power connector from your power supply to the SATA power port on the card.
- Close Computer Case: Replace the side panel of your computer case.
- Reconnect and Power On: Reconnect all power cables and peripheral devices, then power on your computer.
4.2 Driver Installation
The PEXUSB311EI card is natively supported by most modern operating systems, meaning drivers should install automatically upon system startup. If your operating system does not automatically install the necessary drivers, or if you experience issues, visit the StarTech.com website for the latest driver downloads specific to your operating system.
5. Operating
Once the card is installed and recognized by your operating system, you can begin connecting USB devices.
- External USB-A Port: Use this port to connect external USB-A devices such as external hard drives, flash drives, or other peripherals. This port supports USB 3.1 Gen 2 speeds up to 10Gbps.
- Internal USB-A Port: This port is located on the card itself, inside your computer case. It can be used for internal USB-A devices like front-bay SD card readers or to securely house a high-capacity USB flash drive within your computer.
The card is backward compatible, allowing you to connect older USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 devices to either port, though they will operate at their respective maximum speeds.
6. Maintenance
The StarTech.com PEXUSB311EI card requires minimal maintenance. To ensure optimal performance and longevity:
- Keep Drivers Updated: Periodically check the StarTech.com website for updated drivers, especially after major operating system updates.
- Ensure Proper Ventilation: Maintain good airflow within your computer case to prevent overheating of internal components, including the PCIe card.
- Handle with Care: When handling the card, avoid touching the gold contacts or electronic components directly to prevent electrostatic discharge damage.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your PEXUSB311EI card, consider the following troubleshooting steps:
- Card Not Detected:
- Ensure the card is fully seated in the PCI Express slot.
- Try the card in a different PCI Express slot if available.
- Verify that your computer's BIOS/UEFI settings recognize the PCIe slot.
- Slow Data Transfer Speeds:
- Confirm that the connected USB device is USB 3.1 Gen 2 compatible. Older devices will operate at their native speeds.
- Ensure the optional SATA power connector is attached to the card, especially for high-power USB devices.
- Update the card's drivers. Some users have reported improved performance with specific driver versions (e.g., Microsoft drivers over ASMedia drivers in certain scenarios). Check StarTech.com for recommended drivers.
- Test with a different USB cable and device to rule out peripheral issues.
- Device Not Recognized:
- Ensure the USB device is properly connected to the port.
- Check Device Manager (Windows) to see if the USB controller or the connected device has any error indicators.
- Restart your computer.
8. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | PEXUSB311EI |
| Brand | StarTech.com |
| Hardware Interface | PCIe x4 |
| Ports | 1x External USB-A, 1x Internal USB-A |
| Data Transfer Rate | Up to 10Gbps (USB 3.1 Gen 2) |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 6.69 x 5.59 x 1.18 inches (approx.) |
| Item Weight | 1.8 ounces (approx.) |
| Included Components | PCIe card, low-profile bracket, instruction manual |
9. Warranty and Support
The StarTech.com PEXUSB311EI is backed by a 2-year warranty. StarTech.com also provides free lifetime technical support for this product.
For further assistance, updated drivers, or to review the full warranty details, please visit the official StarTech.com website or contact their customer support.
