StarTech.com 7 Port PCI USB Card Adapter with VIA/VLI VT6212 Chipset and PCI/PCI-X Host Interface

The StarTech.com 7 Port PCI USB Card Adapter with VIA/VLI VT6212 Chipset and PCI/PCI-X Host Interface is a practical desktop expansion solution designed to add multiple USB 2.0 connections to older computer systems. Featuring a reliable VIA/VLI VT6212 chipset and PCI 2.2 standard compatibility, this adapter card enables users to easily connect various peripherals without replacing the main system motherboard. It is engineered to provide stable connectivity and standard data transfer rates for both external and internal devices across a wide range of operating systems.

Advantages

This adapter card offers an efficient way to expand connectivity on systems equipped with standard PCI or PCI-X slots. By providing a combination of external and internal ports, it accommodates different hardware setups within the computer case and on the desktop. The inclusion of the VIA/VLI VT6212 chipset ensures consistent performance and broad compatibility with legacy hardware, Windows, Mac, and server operating systems. Furthermore, its backward compatibility ensures that older USB 1.1 and 1.0 devices function correctly alongside newer hardware.

Suitable for

• Adding USB 2.0 ports to desktop computers with available PCI or PCI-X slots
• Connecting external peripherals such as mice, keyboards, printers, and storage drives
• Integrating internal USB devices using internal headers
• Upgrading older computer systems and servers without replacing the motherboard

This card may not be suitable for modern motherboards that lack legacy PCI or PCI-X expansion slots, as it requires a physical PCI interface to function. It is also not designed for high-bandwidth data transfers required by USB 3.0 or USB 3.1 devices, as it is strictly limited to USB 2.0 speeds up to 480Mbps.

Key specifications

• Host interface: PCI/PCI-X
• Output interface: USB 2.0
• Expansion card standard: PCI 2.2
• Chipset: VIA/VLI VT6212
• Total ports: 7 (4 external USB A Female, 1 internal USB A Female, 2 internal motherboard headers)
• Data transfer rate: Up to 480Mbps (High Speed USB), backward compatible with USB 1.1/1.0
• Power output: Up to 500mA per port
• Supported operating systems: Windows 10, Windows Server series, Mac OS X versions

To use the StarTech.com 7 Port PCI USB Card Adapter, power down the computer and disconnect it from the power source. Open the computer case and insert the card firmly into an available PCI or PCI-X slot, ensuring it is properly seated. Secure the mounting bracket to the chassis, close the case, and reconnect the power. Turn on the computer and connect your external or internal USB devices to the available ports. The operating system will typically recognize the hardware automatically through Plug-and-Play compatibility.

What to consider before purchase

• Verify that your computer motherboard has an available and compatible PCI or PCI-X expansion slot
• Check your operating system compatibility to ensure drivers are supported by your specific platform version
• Assess your power requirements, noting that each port supplies up to 500mA
• Confirm that your devices are compatible with USB 2.0 speed limits

Usage recommendations: Ensure that connected devices do not exceed the total power output capacity of 500mA per port to maintain stable operation. For connecting more than a few high-draw devices, use powered external USB hubs to prevent system power strain. Handle the card by its edges during installation and observe standard anti-static precautions to protect internal electronic components.