Hi, I'm upgrading my PC and would like an internal front panel with USB 3.0 and eSata ports to go in my old case, so I don't have to scrabble round the back, (a tricky task with my PC desk). The 5.25" bay would be best, but could use the 3.5" bay too. My motherboard will have headers for USB3.0 and USB2.0 and will have spare SATA ports, so would like one that runs off those. I've looked at Amazon, but there always seems to be several reviews complaining that it doesn't work properly, or it doesn't run off a header. Can anyone recommend a reliable panel? Many Thanks, Janine
I've not used any of these, but you could try these: http://www.scan.co.uk/products/icy-box-ib-864-b-35-6x-slot-card-reader-with-3x-usb-20-1x-esata-and-1x-usb-30 http://www.scan.co.uk/products/35-akasa-ak-icr-16-card-reader-with-esata-and-multiple-usb20-usb30-port-panel http://www.scan.co.uk/products/icy-box-ib-863-b-525-6x-slot-card-reader-with-audio-mic-4x-usb-20-1x-esata-2x-usb-30 http://www.scan.co.uk/products/akasa-interconnect-pro-usb-panel-with-card-reader-and-esata-for-525-pc-front-bay http://www.scan.co.uk/products/35-akasa-ak-icr-17-usb30-memory-card-reader-with-esata-and-multiple-usb20-usb30-port-panel They're all memory card readers really but have eSATA and USB 3.0 also. I've not checked that these actually use internal headers, however I would guess that they would GK
The Akasa ones don't (in my experience). I didn't bother using the one I bought for that reason - I intend on getting an internal USB A-USB header socket, or alternatively making an internal connector. I was, to say the least, a bit irritated! Who wants a USB cable poking out of the back of a case?
Thanks for the list, I've had a little look at them: Icy Box IB-864-B - Doesn't use a USB 3.0 header. Icy Box IB-863-B - Doesn't use a USB 3.0 header. Akasa AK-ICR-16 and Akasa AK-ICR-17 - Amazon title for 16 only says USB 2.0, but description definately mentions USB 3.0, so quite confused there. The Akasa AK-ICR-17 on Amazon has some scathing reviews though, so will probably avoid both. AKASA AK-HC-05BK v2 InterConnect Pro - Seems to claim header connection, but amazon reviews claim not! So, I don't think any of these actually use a USB motherboard header Does anyone know of any that do use the header? If there aren't any combined eSata and USB 3.0 panels, how about seperate ones?
I know it's not what you asked for but these do exist (to prevent the 'cable out the back of the case' workaround) http://www.specialtech.co.uk/spshop/customer/Bitfenix-Internal-USB-30-Adapter--BFA-U3-KU3IU3-RP-pid-13747.html I've used one successfully in the past and, if you can't find a solution with it built in, might be your only option Good luck with the search! GK
Ok, can't seem to find any panels that have a header connection with both USB3 and eSATA, and are not some no-name make. So I will go with the suggestion from GeorgeK and use an adapter. I have found this from Lian Li - http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=CA-383-LL&campaign=pcm/googleshopping&pup_c=gs Is it worth the extra over the chaeper Akasa or Icy Box ones?
Adapters also exist for USB 2.0 (just as an aside...) In terms of that more expensive one, it just comes down to the looks really - if you prefer the more minimalist looks of that one then go for it, however if you feel that you may need the card reader slots of the cheaper ones then go for them instead Glad I could be of help! GK
