Install PCI express-slot to get USB 3.0 at an old Aspire X3950?

elektronikfreak
elektronikfreak Member Posts: 1 New User
edited March 2024 in 2018 Archives
I have an old Acer Aspire X3950 (Intel Core i5 650 @ 3.20GHz) which I bought for a couple of years ago which has 8 USB 2.0 ports. I would like a couple of USB 3.0 (3.1) ports and I wonder id it's possible to istall a PCI express-slot in this computer to get USB 3.0/3.1? The size of the computer is 37*26*10 cm.

Answers

  • Sharanji
    Sharanji ACE Posts: 4,328 Pathfinder
    elektronikfreak 
    This model has a PCI Express x1 bus slot. you will need a PCI Express, or PCIe card to install it in. If you’re brave enough to open up your computer, do so with the system unplugged and install the card in an empty PCIe slot. When you power it up again the computer should detect the new card and install the drivers automatically, or it will ask you for a disc containing the necessary drivers. Then you’re ready to roll, at USB 3.0 transfer rates. If you’re uncomfortable opening up your desktop system you can always buy a card and find someone more qualified to install it. 

    Also, the best option is to always want to purchase a card that includes a power connector of some sort (some cards have an older molex 4-pin power jack and typically come with a molex-to-SATA adapter and some have a SATA power adapter onboard). You should never purchase a USB 3.0 expansion card that lacks a power adapter as the PCI expansion slot cannot supply enough power to meet the demands of a fully loaded USB 3.0 card. 

    You can purchase a 2 or 4 port USB 3.0 PCIe expansion card at most any electronics or computer store, but I suggest you save some money and choose a card from the excellent selection at Amazon

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