StarTech.com PEXUSB3S25 2-Port PCIe USB 3.0 Card Adapter with UASP - 5Gbps - LP4 Power - Low-Profile Bracket
StarTech.com · PEXUSB3S25
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Product Features
Technical Overview
This USB 3.0 card adapter operates on a PCI Express 2.0 x1 host interface, providing a direct connection to the system bus for minimal latency. It supports UASP, which accelerates data transfers by enabling command queuing and parallel processing, significantly improving throughput for compatible drives and devices. The adapter maintains backward compatibility with USB 2.0 and USB 1.0/1.1 devices, ensuring seamless integration with older peripherals.
The card includes comprehensive operating system support for Windows Vista through Windows 11, as well as Windows Server 2008 R2 to 2019, and Linux platforms. It adheres to USB Battery Charging Specification 1.2, allowing it to charge compatible devices efficiently. Environmental compliance includes RoHS 2, REACH, and WEEE directives, reflecting a commitment to reduced hazardous substances and responsible electronics manufacturing.
Key Product Advantages
This adapter delivers high-performance USB 3.0 expansion with features that enhance usability and compatibility in diverse computing environments.
Enhanced Data Transfer Efficiency
UASP support reduces CPU overhead and accelerates data transfers, making it particularly effective for external SSDs and high-speed storage devices that benefit from improved throughput and reduced latency.
- Optimizes performance for UASP-compatible devices
- Lowers system resource consumption during transfers
Flexible Power Management
The optional LP4 power connector, supplied via an included SATA to LP4 cable, provides up to 900mA per USB port, ensuring stable power for bus-powered devices like external hard drives, card readers, and peripherals that require additional current.
- Supports high-power USB devices
- Includes necessary power cable for easy setup
Broad Compatibility and Installation Options
With support for a wide range of Windows and Linux operating systems, plus a low-profile bracket included, this adapter fits both standard and small-form-factor desktop cases, offering deployment flexibility in office, workstation, and compact PC builds.
- Compatible with Windows Vista to 11 and Server editions
- Low-profile bracket enables use in slim chassis
Deployment / Use Cases
The StarTech.com PEXUSB3S25 is suited for expanding USB connectivity in desktop systems where onboard USB ports are insufficient or outdated. Its combination of high-speed data transfer, UASP support, and flexible power delivery makes it a practical solution for various professional and personal computing scenarios.
In office environments, this adapter can connect multiple USB 3.0 devices such as external hard drives for backups, high-resolution webcams for video conferencing, and fast card readers for media transfer. For workstations, it provides the bandwidth needed for peripherals like audio interfaces, external GPUs (via compatible enclosures), and high-speed storage arrays. In home or media centers, it enables efficient connections for external SSDs, gaming controllers, and charging stations, leveraging its backward compatibility to support older devices without sacrificing performance.
Physical Profile
The adapter features a compact black plug-in card design with dimensions of 4.70" (119.38 mm) in height, 0.70" (17.78 mm) in width, and 3.20" (81.28 mm) in length, weighing approximately 1.76 oz (50 g). Its slim profile and included low-profile bracket allow installation in both standard and half-height desktop slots, accommodating various chassis configurations. The black finish provides a neutral appearance that blends with most system interiors, while the sturdy construction ensures durability during handling and installation.
- Width
- 0.70" (17.78 mm)
- Height
- 4.70" (119.38 mm)
- Weight
- 1.76 oz (50 g)
- Length
- 3.20" (81.28 mm)
What's in the Box
The package includes all necessary components for immediate installation and operation.
Highlights
- Adds two external SuperSpeed USB 3.0 ports with UASP support for faster data transfers
- Supports data rates up to 5 Gbps via PCI Express x1 interface
- Includes LP4 power connector with SATA to LP4 cable for stable power delivery up to 900mA per port
- Backward compatible with USB 2.0 and USB 1.0/1.1 devices
- Comes with a low-profile bracket for installation in small-form-factor desktops
- Supports Windows Vista through Windows 11 and Windows Server editions, plus Linux
- Compliant with USB Battery Charging Specification 1.2 for efficient device charging
- Features a compact black design with dimensions of 4.70" x 0.70" x 3.20"
- Includes a 2-year limited warranty for reliable long-term use
- Environmentally friendly with EU RoHS, REACH, and WEEE compliance
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | StarTech.com |
| Manufacturer Part Number | PEXUSB3S25 |
| Brand Name | StarTech.com |
| Product Name | 2 Port PCI Express PCIe SuperSpeed (5Gbps) USB 3.0 Card Adapter with UASP |
| Packaged Quantity | 1 Each |
| Product Type | USB Adapter |
| Technical Information | |
| Host Interface | PCI Express x1 |
| Media & Performance | |
| UASP Support | Yes |
| Interfaces/Ports | |
| Total Number of USB Ports | 2 |
| Number of USB 3.2 Ports | 2 |
| Software | |
| Operating System Supported | Windows Vista,Windows 7,Windows 8,Windows 8.1,Windows 10,Windows 11,Windows Server 2008 R2,Windows Server 2012,Windows Server 2016,Windows Server 2019 |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Color Family | Black |
| Product Color | Black |
| Form Factor | Plug-in Card |
| Height | 4.70" (119.38 mm) |
| Width | 0.70" (17.78 mm) |
| Length | 3.20" (81.28 mm) |
| Weight (Approximate) | 1.76 oz (50 g) |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Package Contents | 2 Port PCI Express PCIe SuperSpeed (5Gbps) USB 3.0 Card Adapter with UASP 1 x Low Profile Bracket 1 x SATA to LP4 Cable 1 x Driver CD 1 x Instruction Manual |
| Platform Supported | PC,Linux |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Environmentally Friendly | Yes |
| Environmental Certification | EU RoHS |
| Environmental Compliance | Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) 2,Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH),Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE) |
| Warranty | |
| Limited Warranty | 2 Year |
User Manual
FAQ
What is UASP and how does it benefit this USB 3.0 card?
UASP (USB Attached SCSI Protocol) is a transfer protocol that improves data throughput and reduces CPU usage compared to standard USB 3.0. On this StarTech.com card, UASP support enables faster file transfers, especially with compatible external SSDs or high-speed storage devices, by allowing command queuing and parallel processing. This results in more efficient data handling and better overall performance for demanding applications.
Can this card be installed in a small-form-factor desktop?
Yes, the card includes a low-profile (half-height) bracket, making it suitable for installation in small-form-factor desktops with limited space. The adapter itself has compact dimensions of 4.70" x 0.70" x 3.20", and the low-profile bracket replaces the standard bracket for fit in slim chassis. This flexibility allows deployment in office PCs, compact workstations, or home theater systems where space is constrained.
What operating systems are supported by this USB 3.0 adapter?
The adapter supports Windows Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, 10, 11, Windows Server 2008 R2, 2012, 2016, 2019, and Linux. Drivers are typically included on the provided CD or available from StarTech.com's website for easy installation. This broad OS compatibility ensures the card works in diverse environments, from legacy business systems to modern home computers and server setups.
How does the LP4 power connector work and when is it needed?
The LP4 power connector, supplied via an included SATA to LP4 cable, provides additional power up to 900mA per USB port. It is needed when connecting bus-powered devices that require more current than the PCIe slot can deliver, such as external hard drives, multi-port hubs, or high-power peripherals. Connecting the LP4 cable ensures stable operation and prevents power-related issues, making it essential for demanding USB devices.
Is this card backward compatible with older USB devices?
Yes, the card is fully backward compatible with USB 2.0 and USB 1.0/1.1 devices. You can connect older peripherals like keyboards, mice, printers, or flash drives, and they will operate at their native speeds. This compatibility ensures seamless integration with existing hardware, allowing you to upgrade to USB 3.0 without abandoning legacy devices.
What is included in the package for installation?
The package includes the 2-port PCIe USB 3.0 card adapter, a low-profile bracket for small-form-factor cases, a SATA to LP4 power cable for additional power delivery, a driver CD for software installation, and an instruction manual. These components provide everything needed for setup in most desktop environments, ensuring a straightforward installation process without requiring additional purchases.
| Qty | Price | Available |
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