Introduction
Thank you for choosing the GRAUGEAR 5.25 Inch Front Panel USB Hub and Card Reader. This device is designed to expand the connectivity of your desktop PC by converting a standard 5.25-inch drive bay into a versatile front panel with high-speed USB ports, card reader slots, and audio jacks. This manual provides detailed instructions for installation, operation, and troubleshooting to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your product.
Package Contents
Please verify that all items listed below are included in your package:
- GRAUGEAR 5.25'' Front Panel USB Hub with Internal Card Reader
- Mounting Screws
- USB 3.2 Type-E Key-A 20-Pin Header Cable
- USB 3.0 19-Pin Cable
- Instruction Manual
- Service Card
Features
High-Speed Data Transfer
The USB ports on this front panel feature the latest USB 3.2 Gen 2 standard, supporting data transmission rates up to 10Gbps. This allows for rapid transfer of large files and ensures efficient connectivity for all your USB devices. It is also backward compatible with USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 standards.
Image: Demonstrates the 10Gbps data transfer capability of the USB-C and USB-A ports.
Multi-Port Functionality
This 8-in-1 multi-ports panel converts your 5.25-inch floppy disk drive space into a comprehensive connectivity hub. It includes 2 USB 3.2 Gen 2 USB-C ports, 2 USB 3.0 ports, a dedicated SD card slot, a microSD/TF card slot, a microphone input port, and an audio output port. This significantly increases the scalability of your desktop computer.
Image: Illustrates the variety of ports available and common devices that can be connected.
Flexible Design for Desktop Integration
Designed to fit seamlessly into a standard 5.25-inch drive bay, this front panel offers easy integration into most desktop PC casings. Its compact and efficient design ensures it complements your system's aesthetics while providing essential front-facing ports.
Image: Shows the front panel unit installed within a desktop computer case.
Durable and Safe Design
Constructed with sturdy materials, the GRAUGEAR front panel ensures long service life and durability. It incorporates multiple safety protection measures, including over-current, over-voltage, and short circuit protection, safeguarding your connected devices and your system. The design also features heat dissipation vents for optimal performance.
Image: Details the durable construction and heat dissipation features of the unit.
Product Overview Video
Video: An official overview of the GRAUGEAR 5.25 Inch USB Front Panel, showcasing its features and design.
Specifications
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | GRAUGEAR |
| Model Number | 18126 |
| Hardware Platform | PC |
| Operating System Compatibility | Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7/Vista/XP |
| Item Weight | 10.6 ounces |
| Package Dimensions | 7.17 x 6.14 x 1.93 inches |
| Color | Black |
| Manufacturer | CHAB GmbH |
| Hardware Interface | MicroSD, USB, USB Type C, USB 3.0, USB 2.0 |
| Special Features | Powered, Fast Data Transfer, Plug and Play |
| Compatible Devices | Headphones, Card Readers, Speakers, Desktops |
Image: Detailed specifications and dimensions of the front panel unit.
Installation Guide
Follow these steps to properly install your GRAUGEAR 5.25 Inch Front Panel:
- Prepare Your PC: Ensure your computer is powered off and unplugged from the wall outlet. Open your PC case to access the internal components.
- Locate a 5.25" Bay: Identify an available 5.25-inch drive bay in your PC case. Remove any front panel covers or drive bay cages as necessary.
- Insert the Front Panel: Gently slide the GRAUGEAR front panel into the chosen 5.25-inch bay from the front of the case until it is flush with the PC's front bezel.
- Secure the Panel: Use the provided mounting screws to fix the front panel securely into the drive bay. Ensure it is firmly in place to prevent movement when connecting devices.
- Connect USB 3.0 Header: Locate the USB 3.0 19-pin header on your motherboard. Connect the corresponding USB 3.0 19-pin cable from the front panel to this header.
- Connect USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-E Header: Locate the USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-E Key-A 20-pin header on your motherboard. Connect the corresponding cable from the front panel to this header. Note: Some older motherboards may not have this header. An adapter (not included) or a PCIe card (not included) may be required to convert a USB 3.0 header or PCIe slot to a Type-E connector.
- Connect SATA Power: Connect the 15-pin SATA power connector from the front panel to an available SATA power cable from your power supply unit (PSU). This connection is required for the card reader and overall functionality.
- Close PC Case: Once all connections are secure, close your PC case and reconnect the power cable.
Image: Visual guide for installing the front panel and connecting its internal cables.
Operation Guide
Once installed, the GRAUGEAR Front Panel operates as a plug-and-play device. No additional drivers are typically required for Windows operating systems.
- USB Ports (USB-C and USB-A): Simply plug your USB devices (e.g., flash drives, external hard drives, keyboards, mice) into the corresponding USB-C or USB-A ports. The system will automatically detect and configure the device.
- SD/microSD Card Readers: Insert your SD or microSD/TF memory cards into the appropriate slots. The card will appear as a removable drive in your computer's file explorer, allowing you to access, transfer, and manage files.
- Audio Ports (Microphone and Headphone): Connect your microphone to the pink port and your headphones or speakers to the green port. Ensure your system's audio settings are configured to use these new input/output devices if they are not automatically selected.
Compatibility
The GRAUGEAR 5.25 Inch Front Panel is designed for broad compatibility:
- Operating Systems: Compatible with Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8.1, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
- PC Cases: Fits into any standard 5.25-inch optical drive bay.
- Motherboard Headers: Requires an available USB 3.0 19-pin header and a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-E Key-A 20-pin header on your motherboard.
- Power Supply: Requires an available 15-pin SATA power connector from your PSU.
Image: Overview of the unit's universal compatibility with different devices and system requirements.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your GRAUGEAR Front Panel, please refer to the following common solutions:
- No Power/Not Detected:
- Ensure the 15-pin SATA power connector is securely attached to your PSU's SATA power cable.
- Verify that both the USB 3.0 19-pin and USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-E 20-pin cables are fully and correctly seated into their respective motherboard headers. A loose connection can prevent functionality.
- Check your motherboard's BIOS/UEFI settings to ensure USB ports are enabled.
- Slow Data Transfer Speed:
- Ensure you are using USB 3.0 or USB 3.2 Gen 2 compatible devices and cables to achieve maximum speeds. Connecting a USB 2.0 device will result in USB 2.0 speeds.
- Verify that the cables are properly connected to the correct motherboard headers (USB 3.0 for 5Gbps, USB 3.2 Gen 2 for 10Gbps).
- Card Reader Not Working:
- Ensure the SATA power connection is secure, as it is required for the card reader.
- Try a different SD/microSD card to rule out a faulty card.
- Check Device Manager in Windows for any unrecognized devices or driver issues.
- Audio Jacks Not Working:
- Check your computer's sound settings to ensure the correct playback and recording devices are selected.
- Test with different headphones/microphones.
Warranty and Support
GRAUGEAR products come with a standard manufacturer's warranty. For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the service card included in your package or visit the official GRAUGEAR website.
If you require technical assistance or have questions regarding your product, please contact GRAUGEAR customer support:
- Website: www.graugear.de
- Manufacturer: CHAB GmbH
