Is eSATA 'plug and play' under windows 7?

[deanx0r]

I am running Windows XP on a E6600 with an ASUS P5B Deluxe. I was never able to figure out how to make eSATA 'plug and play' on this platform. I wonder if it's an OS or hardware limitation. I am looking to build a new computer but I haven't figured out if I have to stick with an extra 1394b add-on card if eSATA is not 'plug and play'.

Is eSATA 'plug and play' under windows 7?

Also, can you fit a PCIe 1x into a 4x or 8x slot?

[WaitingForNehalem]

You must turn on AHCI which might require you to reformat.

Also, can you fit a PCIe 1x into a 4x or 8x slot

yes

[corkyg]

It is in my Win 7 system - provided it is a genuine eSATA port and not merely an external connection to an internal SATA port.