Parts store for Predator Orion 3000 PO3-640?

DanL001

Hi, I recently got a Predator Orion 3000 for my work need after spending couple of years on a Mac. I did consider to build a PC on my own before getting a pre-built like the Orion 3000 since I simply do not have the time nor experience building PC. But to my surprise modern pre-build PCs are less customizable/serviceable (possibly a trade-off being reliable right out of the box) than the older ones. For example I did some research online and I saw that all the USB ports are soldered onto the motherboard instead of connected to an adapter like in older motherboards. Therefore my concern is that once the ports fail I will be forced to replace the entire board instead of replacing the ports individually.

And I did some further research and I realized that other boards like those in the MSI brand also featured soldered USB ports so I don't think that it is unique to pre-built Acers...

But the problem is I've read somewhere that the board in the Orion 3000 seemed to be made and designed by Acer specifically for the Orion 3000 so my choice for a replacement board in the event of a failed USB (or other events leading to a motherboard replacement) would be extremely limited.

So I would like to ask if there is a place I would source parts for pre-built machines like the board for Orion 3000 since it doesn't look like I could get from places like Amazon where popular motherboards are being sold... Thanks.

[Edited the thread to add model name to the title]

JackE

Yes. Aliexpress usually has the boards available. They often warehouse popular models in the US and other countries so delivery is fairly quick. Furthermore, other comparable standard mainboards like sold on Amazon will fit the case but will require running cables from the mainboard to front panel ports that are integrated into the Acer mainboaard. The Acer integrated port design, simplifies manufacturing & assembly. This has been an industry-wide trend for years rather than add-on or replaceable peripherals like in the old days.

billsey

You also do have a single USB 2.0 header on the motherboard, #17 here:

GotBanned

If you are already worried about what might happen, I would return the PC and spend the time and just go afead and build one. It is really not that difficult and there are many forums and videos that show in minute detail how to do it.

Prebuilts are not more reliable than those build for specific needs. I would go that far and and say that many prebuilts are actually less reliable, because of penny pinching practices and silly design decisions.