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onlyshiza

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USB card or extension? Solution for my USB drive...?

Hi folks,

I have recently purchased a USB (flash) drive. My desktop has only USB ports at the back of the CPU tower. I really don't know what other options I have to make using the USB drive less of a pain. I have searched around on the web and saw USB extension cables, but what I was really looking for was a card for the front of my CPU tower. I have one of those "DELL L series mini towers" and it seems it has an extra slot (with dimensions 4" x 3/4") at the front of the CPU case. Are there any card that can be inserted in this slot?

I really appreciate your comments on the options that there are out in the market, specially about the USB card for the front of the case.

Thanks!
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Callandor
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onlyshiza

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Callandor,

Thanks for your reply. It seems really cool! However I don't think it fits into the slot on my tower (I couldn't find any info on it's dimensions). Besides, I don't think I would use most of it's features like CF card reader. Are there more economical options out there ?
There are two types:    Ones that connect to INTERNAL usb headers on your motherboard, and the second connects ("through" the inside of your case) to the USB ports on the back.

I think this one will suit your needs, as is designed for the 3.5" drive bay you mentioned you have open:  http://www.newegg.com/app/viewproductdesc.asp?description=20-213-003&DEPA=0    (I think the previous item posted may be too large).

Either way, the common denominator is that NEWEGG is also my favorite place to shop for parts like this, and they have what you need.

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Callandor
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Caseybea,

Seems like this one is more close to what I need. However I don't see any USB port on it...is it just a CF or SM card reader? (I always admit I am a bit dumb when it comes to hardware :-)
Thanks Callandor... This is what I was looking for...Now two more questions:

1- It says: (Require motherboard with built-in USB & 1394 host controllers)... How do I know that my motherboard has these specifications.

2- Does it come with any instructions on how to connect that...again I am a bit dumb about hardware!
You can specify your motherboard, and we can look it up.
You can install and run Everest, if you don't know what motherboard you have: http://www.lavalys.com/products/download.php?pid=1&lang=en&pageid=3

Instructions on how to connect (you can check the pictures to see if you have USB headers)
http://www.directron.com/installusb.html
Ok, I have installed Everest and this is the quick report I got for the motherboard:

Motherboard Properties:
      Motherboard ID                                    51-2300-000000-00101111-030199-$CA810_
      Motherboard Name                                  Intel Cayman CA810

    Front Side Bus Properties:
      Bus Type                                          Intel GTL+
      Bus Width                                         64-bit
      Real Clock                                        133 MHz
      Effective Clock                                   133 MHz
      Bandwidth                                         1066 MB/s

    Chipset Bus Properties:
      Bus Type                                          Intel Hub Interface
      Bus Width                                         8-bit

    Motherboard Physical Info:
      CPU Sockets/Slots                                 1
      Expansion Slots                                   4 PCI
      RAM Slots                                         2 DIMM
      Integrated Devices                                Audio, Video
      Form Factor                                       Micro ATX
      Motherboard Size                                  240 mm x 240 mm
      Motherboard Chipset                               i810

    Motherboard Manufacturer:
      Company Name                                      Intel Corporation
      Product Information                               http://www.intel.com/design/motherbd/index.htm
      BIOS Download                                     http://www.intel.com/design/motherbd/genbios.htm
It looks like that board has an optional USB front panel, but you'll have to check your manual or motherboard to make sure: http://support.intel.com/support/motherboards/desktop/CA810/sb/CS-012827.htm#6
Whoops!   I posted one that had no USB port on the front.       Here's one that's only 16 bucks, and fits both 3.5" and 5.25"

http://www.newegg.com/app/ViewProductDesc.asp?description=13-999-231&depa=0

Thanks a lot Callandor. I really appreciate all your time and help. I will increase the points a bit as you have put lots of time on this.

onlyshiza
Caseybea,

I have posted some points on a separate posting for you. Thanks a lot for your contribution.

onlyshiza