How to use the SS USB 3.0 ports on your case without SS USB 3.0 on your MOBO

10XTriplet · Dec 4, 2012

I ran into a problem when I bought a mobo without the optional SS (SuperSpeed) USB3.0 connector. I found it a pain in the butt to put my thumb drives in the back of the PC rather than using the front ports, and since the case manufactures don't include the converters, I'd thought I would share what I did to be able to use those USB 3.0 ports on my case.

Parts needed

1. Gino 6.3" Blue USB 3
2. 2 Port USB Motherboard Header Adapter
3. Glue gun

10XTriplet · Dec 4, 2012

Its really very simple job. I hot glued the two connections because I did not what it to wiggle free if I ever opened up the case at a later date.

It will be at USB 2.0 speeds, but who really cares? I got my front ports back!

10XTriplet · Dec 4, 2012

Reserved 2

EarthDog · Dec 4, 2012

Interesting...workaround for not having the right case (USB3 AND 2 ports), or mobo with the header, thanks!

EDIT: Also, wouldnt another option be, that is cheaper AND retains your USB3 functionality, is to use 2 USB3 ports on the back with that wire, plumb it through the water cooling holes on most cases in to your case and use the front USB3 as USB3? Seems like a lot less effort and cash and you retain the USB3 speeds too.

10XTriplet · Dec 4, 2012

EarthDog said:
Interesting...workaround for not having the right case (USB3 AND 2 ports), or mobo with the header) thanks!

EDIT: Also, wouldnt another option, that is cheaper AND retains your USB3 functionality, is to use 2 USB3 ports on the back with that wire, plumb it through the water cooling holes on most cases in to your case and use the front USB3 as USB3?

I'm using those 3.0 ports on the back, and besides it will look messy and ugly... I bought the correct case, its what I wanted. I did not foresee Cooler Master not including converter cables to use it with ANY mobo.. :thup:

Bobnova · Dec 4, 2012

I'm surprised that works. Pretty awesome though!
Way to think outside the box

10XTriplet · Dec 4, 2012

Bobnova said:
I'm surprised that works. Pretty awesome though!
Way to think outside the box

Thank you sir! This is a Terminal Server running Windows 2008 Enterprise 32bit with 8gig of RAM. Did not want to accidentally pull out the plug when I remove my thumb drive...

EarthDog · Dec 4, 2012

10XTriplet said:
I'm using those 3.0 ports on the back, and besides it will look messy and ugly... I bought the correct case, its what I wanted. I did not foresee Cooler Master not including converter cables to use it with ANY mobo..

Gotcha, you are already using 2 USB3 devices in the back... kk (otherwise its the same thing as far as looks to me, still a wire running through case). :thup:

Excellent thinking man!

MattNo5ss · Dec 4, 2012

Ha, pretty neat mod. I love the ingenuity! Good job!

For those not willing or confident enough to go through all that, it would be cheaper and a little easier to buy an Internal USB3.0 Male to Internal USB2.0 Female Adapter though.

10XTriplet · Dec 4, 2012

MattNo5ss said:
Ha, pretty neat mod. I love the ingenuity! Good job!

For those not willing or confident enough to go through all that, it would be cheaper and a little easier to buy an Internal USB3.0 Male to Internal USB2.0 Female Adapter though.

son of $#@ITCH! I was looking for that! Hahahaha. Now that's screwed up! I agree, that would have been MUCH easier, and cheaper!

MattNo5ss · Dec 4, 2012

Lol, it happens. At least you have working front panel USB now

There are also PCIe x1 to internal USB3.0 add-on cards in case you wanted USB3.0 speeds. They are anywhere between $18-34.

How to use the SS USB 3.0 ports on your case without SS USB 3.0 on your MOBO

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