FANBLACK PCIe to USB 3.2 Gen 2 Card User Manual

1. Introduction and Overview

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your FANBLACK PCIe to USB 3.2 Gen 2 Expansion Card. This card is designed to expand your desktop PC's connectivity by adding 7 external USB ports, enhancing data transfer capabilities.

The FANBLACK PCIe to USB 3.2 Gen 2 Card offers 4 USB Type-A and 3 USB Type-C ports, providing a total bandwidth of up to 20Gbps. Each individual port supports data transfer rates up to 10Gbps when used independently. This card is intended for data transfer only and does not support PD fast charging, video signal transfer (DP, HDMI, VGA display conversion), or USB-C Thunderbolt protocol.

Image: The FANBLACK PCIe to USB 3.2 Gen 2 Expansion Card, showcasing its design and multiple USB ports.

2. Product Features

• 7-Port Expansion: Provides 4 USB Type-A and 3 USB Type-C external ports for connecting various USB peripherals.
• High-Speed Transmission: Offers up to 10Gbps per port and a total bandwidth of 20Gbps, enabling fast data transfer.
• Wide Compatibility: Compatible with Windows 7/8/10/11 (32/64 bit), Mac OS 10.8.2 and above, and Linux.
• Stable Connection: Utilizes the PCI Express slot for a stable and reliable connection, minimizing data transfer interruptions.
• No External Power Required: Draws power directly from the PCIe slot, simplifying installation and cable management. Supports devices like HDD/SSD enclosures and VR sensors.
• Easy Installation: Designed for quick and straightforward installation into a standard desktop PC.

Image: Illustration of the multi-port functionality, showing various devices that can be connected, such as keyboard, mouse, hard disk, CD drive, monitor, printer, scanner, hand shank, VR eyes, and camera.

Image: Diagram illustrating the superspeed USB 3.2 transfer rates up to 10Gbps, comparing it with USB 3.0 (5Gbps) and USB 2.0 (480Mbps).

3. Specifications

4. Compatibility

The FANBLACK PCIe to USB 3.2 Gen 2 Card is broadly compatible with various operating systems and PCI Express slots:

• Operating Systems:
  • Windows 7/8/10/11 (32/64 bit)
  • Mac OS 10.8.2 and above
  • Linux

  Note: Windows XP/Vista/7 and Server operating systems require driver installation. Windows 10/11, Mac OS, and Linux typically do not require additional drivers. If your computer does not recognize the card, contact your motherboard vendor for additional USB drivers or FANBLACK support.

• PCI Express Slots: Supports PCI Express x4, x8, and x16 interfaces. For optimal 10Gbps speed, a PCIe version 3.0 or higher slot with x4 lanes or higher is recommended. While x1 and x2 channels are compatible, they may not achieve the maximum advertised speed.

Image: Visual representation of the card's compatibility with Windows, Mac OS, and Linux operating systems.

Image: Diagram showing supported PCIe interfaces (x4, x8, x16) and incompatible (x1) interfaces for the expansion card.

5. Installation Guide

Follow these steps to properly install the FANBLACK PCIe to USB 3.2 Gen 2 Card into your desktop PC:

1. Prepare Your PC: Turn off your computer completely and unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.
2. Open PC Case: Remove the side panel of your PC case to access the internal components.
3. Locate PCI-E Slot: Identify an available PCI Express slot (x4, x8, or x16) on your motherboard.
4. Insert the Card: Carefully align the gold contacts of the PCIe card with the chosen PCI-E slot. Gently but firmly push the card straight down into the slot until it is fully seated.
5. Secure the Card: Once seated, use a screwdriver to tighten the screw that secures the card's bracket to the PC case.

   Note on Vertical USB-A Ports: The USB-A ports on this card are vertical, with an approximate height of 0.62 inches. Before installation, ensure sufficient clearance in your computer's rear expansion slot to prevent obstruction when plugging in USB devices. In some cases, for narrow rear slot areas, it may be necessary to carefully cut the crossbar between two slots using small sheet metal hand pliers to ensure proper fit and access.
6. Close PC Case: Replace the side panel of your PC case and secure it.
7. Reconnect Power: Plug the power cord back into the wall outlet and turn on your PC.
8. Driver Installation (if necessary):
   • For Windows 10/11, Mac OS, and Linux: The card is typically plug-and-play and drivers are automatically installed.
   • For Windows XP/Vista/7 and Server: You will need to install drivers from the included CD or download them from the FANBLACK support website.

   If the card is not recognized or USB devices are not working after installation, try scanning for hardware changes in Device Manager (Windows) or restarting your system.

Image: A four-step visual guide demonstrating the installation process: turning off the PC, locating the PCIe slot, inserting the card, and securing it.

6. Operation

Once the FANBLACK PCIe to USB 3.2 Gen 2 Card is successfully installed and recognized by your operating system, it operates automatically. Simply plug your USB devices into the available Type-A or Type-C ports.

• Connecting Devices: Insert your USB devices (e.g., external hard drives, keyboards, mice, webcams, VR headsets) into any of the 4 USB Type-A or 3 USB Type-C ports.
• Data Transfer: The card will automatically facilitate data transfer at speeds up to 10Gbps per port, depending on the connected device's capabilities and the overall system bandwidth.
• Power Delivery: The card draws power directly from the PCIe slot and provides sufficient power for most standard USB devices. It does not support BC 1.2 charging or Power Delivery (PD) for fast charging mobile devices.

Image: Visual indicating that no external power supply is required for the card, highlighting its stable and intelligent protection features.

7. Maintenance

The FANBLACK PCIe to USB 3.2 Gen 2 Card requires minimal maintenance. Adhering to these guidelines can help ensure its longevity and optimal performance:

• Keep Clean: Periodically inspect the card and its ports for dust accumulation. Use compressed air to gently remove dust from the ports and the card's surface.
• Secure Connections: Ensure the card remains firmly seated in its PCIe slot. Avoid excessive force when plugging or unplugging USB devices, as this can potentially dislodge the card or strain its connections.
• Environmental Conditions: Operate the computer in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating of internal components, including the expansion card.

8. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your FANBLACK PCIe to USB 3.2 Gen 2 Card.

Issue: 10Gbps Speed Not Achieved

Possible Causes & Solutions:

• PCIe Slot Protocol: Ensure your motherboard's PCI-E slot is version 3.0 or higher. Consult your motherboard manufacturer's documentation.
• PCIe Lane Assignment: Verify that the lanes assigned to the PCI-E interface are x4 or higher. While x1 or x2 channels are compatible, they will limit the speed.
• USB Device Performance: The speed is also dependent on the connected USB device's capabilities, its USB protocol, and the quality of the cable. Confirm your external USB device supports 10Gbps bandwidth.

Issue: USB 3.2 Port Detected as USB 3.1

Explanation:

• According to the latest USB-IF standard, USB 3.2 Gen 2x1 is equivalent to USB 3.1 Gen 2, both referring to 10Gbps speed. This is a naming convention and does not indicate a performance issue.

Issue: Card Not Recognized or USB Devices Not Working

Possible Causes & Solutions:

• Driver Installation: For Windows XP/Vista/7 and Server, ensure the drivers from the included CD or FANBLACK website are installed. For Windows 10/11, Mac OS, and Linux, drivers should install automatically. If not, try manually updating drivers via Device Manager or contacting FANBLACK support.
• Hardware Scan: In Windows Device Manager, click "Scan for hardware changes" to prompt the system to detect the card.
• Reseat the Card: Turn off the PC, unplug it, and carefully re-seat the PCIe card in its slot to ensure a firm connection.
• Motherboard Compatibility: Some specific motherboards might require additional USB drivers from the motherboard vendor.
• Physical Obstruction: Ensure the vertical USB-A ports are not obstructed by the PC case's expansion slot area, preventing full insertion of USB devices.

Issue: USB-A or USB-C Ports Stop Working Intermittently or Permanently

Possible Causes & Solutions:

• Loose Connection: If the card is not securely fastened or if excessive force is used when plugging/unplugging devices, it can cause the card to slightly dislodge, leading to connection issues. Re-seat the card firmly.
• Driver Corruption: Reinstall or update the drivers.
• System Instability: Ensure your operating system is stable and up-to-date. Conflicting drivers or system issues can affect peripheral functionality.
• Hardware Defect: If troubleshooting steps do not resolve the issue, the card may have a hardware defect. Contact FANBLACK customer support for assistance.

9. Warranty and Support

The FANBLACK PCIe to USB 3.2 Gen 2 Card comes with an industry-leading 1-year product care warranty. FANBLACK is committed to providing high-quality products and customer satisfaction.

For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or warranty claims, please contact FANBLACK customer support. 24/7 technical support is available to assist you with any issues or questions regarding your product.

Please refer to the contact information provided in your product packaging or visit the official FANBLACK website for the most up-to-date support details.

10. Safety Information

Please observe the following safety precautions to ensure safe operation and prevent damage to the product or your computer:

• Power Disconnection: Always turn off your computer and unplug it from the power source before installing or removing the PCIe card.
• Static Electricity: Take precautions against static electricity (e.g., use an anti-static wrist strap or touch a grounded metal object) before handling internal computer components.
• Physical Fit: The card's dimensions are 3.43(in) in length and 3.15(in) in height, with an iron sheet height of 0.71(in). It is not suitable for small computers or server chassis (e.g., 1U and 2U). Ensure your PC case has adequate space.
• Vertical USB-A Ports: The vertical orientation of the USB-A ports (approx. 0.62 inches height) requires checking the clearance of your computer's rear expansion slot. Insufficient clearance can prevent USB devices from being fully plugged in.
• Secure Mounting: Ensure the card is properly seated and secured with screws. A poorly seated card can lead to instability or damage.
• Intended Use: This card is designed for data transfer only. Do not attempt to use it for PD fast charging, video signal transfer (DP, HDMI, VGA), or USB-C Thunderbolt protocols, as this is not supported and may cause damage.