Gigabyte EP45-DS3R serial port connector

[etrin]

I just got one of these boards and was surprised(ok not really) that the serial and parallel backplates for these ports was not included.
I have some old boards that came with serial port expansion like this. How can I tell if they have the correct pin outs or will all of the expansions like this work?

 

[OCChronic]

Your mainboard manual should have a layout diagram and will point out any serial port headers you may have. If none are shown, then you don't have any other option but to buy a serial port PCI card and install it.

 

[etrin]

the board has both a serial and a parallel header. It has a pin out diagram. BUT I have no idea how to tell if the 9 pin cable and plug will work with it or short it out or if they crossed something up so that without THEIR cable (which you can't buy anywhere) will fry the device or board if I plug it up.

 

[VirtualLarry]

There are two standards for COM port expansion brackets. I really don't know about LPT brackets, there could be two for them too, but I've only seen one type.