1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your GRAUGEAR G-MP01CR 3.5 Inch Front Panel USB C Hub and Card Reader. This device is designed to expand the connectivity of your desktop computer by providing convenient front-panel access to high-speed USB ports and memory card slots.
Image 1.1: The GRAUGEAR G-MP01CR Front Panel USB Hub and Card Reader with its connecting cables.
2. Package Contents
Verify that all items listed below are present in your package. If any items are missing or damaged, please contact customer service.
- 1x GRAUGEAR G-MP01CR 3.5'' Front Panel USB Hub with Internal Card Reader
- 6x Mounting Screws
- 1x USB 3.2 Type-E Key-A 20-Pin Header Cable
- 1x USB 3.0 19-Pin Header Cable
- 1x Instruction Manual
- 1x Service Card
Image 2.1: All components included in the GRAUGEAR G-MP01CR package.
3. Specifications
| Model Number | G-MP01CR |
| Form Factor | 3.5 inch bay |
| Host Connection | 1x USB 3.0 (19-pin) header, 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Key A (20-pin) header |
| External Connectors | 2x USB Type-A, 2x USB Type-C, 1x Micro SD Card Reader, 1x SD Card Reader |
| USB Type-C Speed | Up to 20 Gbps (USB 3.2 Gen 2x2) and 5 Gbps (USB 3.2 Gen 1) |
| USB Type-A Speed | Up to 5 Gbps (USB 3.0) |
| Power Connector | 15-Pin SATA Power Connector |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 4.02 x 4.02 x 0.98 inches (102 x 102 x 25 mm) |
| Weight | 6 ounces (170g) |
| Operating System Compatibility | Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7/Vista/XP |
Image 3.1: Detailed dimensions and connection specifications for the G-MP01CR.
4. Installation Guide
Follow these steps to properly install the GRAUGEAR G-MP01CR into your desktop computer.
4.1 Preparation
- Power Off: Ensure your computer is completely powered off and unplugged from the wall outlet.
- Open Case: Remove the side panel of your computer case to access the internal components.
- Locate Bay: Identify an available 3.5-inch floppy disk drive bay. If only 5.25-inch bays are available, a 5.25-inch to 3.5-inch adapter bracket (not included) will be required.
- Identify Headers: Locate the following headers on your motherboard:
- An available 19-pin USB 3.0 header.
- An available 20-pin USB 3.2 Key-A Type-E header. (Note: Some older motherboards may not have this header. A separate adapter card might be necessary to utilize the 20Gbps USB-C port.)
Image 4.1: Illustration of connecting the USB 3.2 Gen 2 Key A host and USB 3.0 19 Pin host cables to the motherboard.
4.2 Mounting the Unit
- Insert Unit: Slide the GRAUGEAR G-MP01CR into the chosen 3.5-inch bay from the front of the computer case.
- Secure Unit: Use the provided mounting screws to secure the unit firmly into the drive bay.
Image 4.2: The front panel hub installed in a 3.5-inch bay of a desktop computer.
4.3 Connecting Cables
- Connect USB 3.0 Cable: Plug the 19-pin USB 3.0 cable from the G-MP01CR into the corresponding 19-pin USB 3.0 header on your motherboard.
- Connect USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Cable: Plug the 20-pin USB 3.2 Key-A Type-E cable from the G-MP01CR into the corresponding 20-pin USB 3.2 Key-A Type-E header on your motherboard. Ensure correct orientation to avoid damage.
- Connect SATA Power: Connect a 15-pin SATA power connector from your power supply unit (PSU) to the SATA power input on the G-MP01CR. This connection is essential for the card reader and external hard drives to function correctly.
Image 4.3: Illustration of connecting the 15-pin SATA power cable to the front panel unit.
Image 4.4: Diagram showing the connection of the USB 3.2 Gen 2 Key A host and USB 3.0 19 Pin host cables to the motherboard, along with the SATA power connection.
4.4 Final Steps
- Close Case: Reattach the side panel of your computer case.
- Power On: Plug in your computer and power it on. The operating system should automatically detect and install the necessary drivers.
5. Operating Instructions
The GRAUGEAR G-MP01CR provides multiple ports for data transfer and card reading.
5.1 USB Ports
- USB Type-C (20 Gbps): This port supports USB 3.2 Gen 2x2, offering data transfer speeds up to 20 Gigabits per second. Use this port for high-speed devices like external SSDs.
- USB Type-C (5 Gbps): This port supports USB 3.2 Gen 1, offering data transfer speeds up to 5 Gigabits per second.
- USB Type-A (5 Gbps): The two USB Type-A ports support USB 3.0, providing data transfer speeds up to 5 Gigabits per second. These are compatible with most standard USB devices.
Image 5.1: Illustration of the USB Type-C port supporting 20 Gbps data transfer.
Image 5.2: Example benchmark results demonstrating 20 Gbps transfer speeds.
5.2 Card Readers
- SD Card Slot: Insert your SD card with the label facing down (upside down) for proper recognition.
- MicroSD/TF Card Slot: Insert your microSD or TF card into the designated slot.
Image 5.3: Guide for correct SD card insertion (label down).
6. Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your GRAUGEAR G-MP01CR, follow these general maintenance guidelines:
- Keep the unit free from dust and debris. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning.
- Avoid exposing the unit to liquids or excessive moisture.
- Do not attempt to disassemble the unit, as this may void the warranty and cause damage.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your GRAUGEAR G-MP01CR, refer to the following troubleshooting tips:
- No Power/Device Not Detected:
- Ensure the 15-pin SATA power connector is securely attached to the unit and connected to your PSU. The card reader and some USB functions require this power.
- Verify that the 19-pin USB 3.0 and 20-pin USB 3.2 Key-A Type-E cables are correctly and firmly plugged into their respective headers on the motherboard. Incorrect orientation of the Type-E connector can prevent functionality.
- Check your motherboard's manual to confirm the presence and location of the required headers.
- Slow Data Transfer Speeds:
- Ensure you are using the correct USB port for your device's capabilities. The 20Gbps USB-C port requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 compatible device and motherboard header to achieve maximum speeds.
- Verify that your cables are rated for the desired speed (e.g., USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 cables for 20Gbps).
- Confirm that your motherboard drivers are up to date.
- SD/MicroSD Card Not Detected:
- Ensure the SD card is inserted correctly, with the label facing down.
- Check if the card is properly seated in the slot.
- Test the card in another device to rule out card malfunction.
- Unit Does Not Fit 3.5-inch Bay:
- Confirm that the bay is indeed a standard 3.5-inch bay. If you are attempting to install it in a 5.25-inch bay, an adapter bracket is required.
8. Warranty and Support
GRAUGEAR products are designed for reliability and performance. For warranty information, please refer to the included Service Card in your package.
For technical support or further assistance, please visit the official GRAUGEAR website or contact their customer service.
Official Website: www.graugear.de
