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USB Connector on Motherboard??
I currently have a Dimension XPS on order and wondered if the motherboard for this computer comes with available USB connectors on the motherboard? The reason why I ask is because I am considering purchasing a Mitsumi memory card reader for this slot but it requires in internal USB connection on the motherboard....which I understand is on "most computers". Can anyone please confirm this. Dell technical support seems to be unable to answer technical questions on systems that are not yet delivered.
Thanks, Ken
BigBrother
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July 2nd, 2004 00:00
kbevan,
The XPS systems do not have separate USB headers on the motherboard. The USB ports are connectors directly attached to the motherboard or by a propietary cable from the motherboard to the front USB ports.
Steve
kbevan
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July 2nd, 2004 01:00
Thank you Steve ....I just had determined this myself too from an indepth review/analysis of the XPS machine. I think "Chucket" (the other person to reply) is on the right track of buying a PCI card with an internal usb connector to solve my problem.
Thanks again.
Ken
chuket
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July 2nd, 2004 01:00
I can't comment on the internals of your new machine but if you need an internal USB connector, this is a good place to look:
http://www.pricewatch.com/
Go to cards-controller and look one up. I bought a 4+ (1 internal ) for ~ $10. It gives you 4 external USB 2 ports +1 internal 2.0 port.
scoobydooby
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July 2nd, 2004 02:00
I also intend to install a card reader on my XPS (awaiting its arrival); specifically the Atech Pro-9.
According to the following website, there is another option if there is no USB pin on the motherboard (though I don't know if this also applies to the Mitsumi reader):
http://www.bjorn3d.com/read.php?cID=341&pageID=475
"Although the instructions make it sound like you must use the provided internal USB cable for installing it in a case, I see no reason why you couldn't use the included external cable as a pass-through cable if you don't have a USB pin header on your motherboard. Just route the cable out the back of your PC and hook it into a free USB port on your back plate. That's basically the same thing as using it externally. "
kbevan
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July 2nd, 2004 12:00
kbevan
5 Posts
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July 2nd, 2004 12:00
Scooby ...I like the look of this Apache and reviews look good too. I have seen USB related installations that snake the connection out the back & into an external port. I was thinking of that too but was unclear if the powerdraw would be sufficient as the unit is getting its power through the USB. Your solution is simpler than the PCI card and cheaper too ...if that will work. Still a question in my mind.
Something to think about too is that you only have 1 external 3 1/2 drive bay in the XPS ...and if you're using it for a floppy drive you will have to replace it with this unit or find a way to fit it into the available 5 1/4" bay slot which is available.
scoobydooby
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July 2nd, 2004 13:00
Everytime I learn something new on these boards.
About the power, the Atech web site says about its reader:
"USB powered – no additional power adaptor or battery required."
Could you explain why it might be different connecting the reader to an external USB on the back, from connecting the reader to an internal USB on a PCI card?
About the unavailability of a 3.5" bay - I plan to use the following bracket to convert the available 5.25" to a 3.5" :
www.compusmart.com/product.asp?CatalogID=0&SupplierPartID=054102
Message Edited by scoobydooby on 07-02-2004 10:54 AM