how do you know if USB 3 works on your computer?

[Jskid]

I'm planning on building a new computer and was reading the description of cases. How come some cases can't support USB 3? I mean if it's the same shape/size as USB 2 why is there a difference?

Someone told me that neither Intel or AMD "natively support" USB 3. So what does this mean? That I have to use a Motorola cpu:\

 

[stahlhart]

The wiring specifications are different -- if the ports are in the case, then you need the cabling to connect them to the header on the motherboard. 3.0 headers are physically different, not the typical .100" ones.

 

[stargazr]

USB 3.0 hardware is different than USB 2.0.

Someone told me that neither Intel or AMD "natively support" USB 3. So what does this mean? That I have to use a Motorola cpu

No, it means there isn't a 3.0 controller in the chipset. But motherboard manufacturers get around this by installing a USB 3.0 controller by like say NEC.

You can also add USB 3.0 by purchasing an add-on PCI-e card. But for a new build, just look for a motherboard that has USB 3.0.

 

[Jskid]

For example with this case could I use USB 3.0 providing the mother board supports it?

 

[stargazr]

No, it has USB 2.0 on the front panel. Just look at the specs of the case.

 

[corkyg]

Yes, but not the front ports. What you could do is use the mobo's rear USB3 port, and connect that to a USB3 hub and go from there. That way, the case really has nothing to do with your USB 3 needs. It is the mobo.

You can install something like this very easily . . .

http://sewelldirect.com/USB-30-x-4-1294-6p4p-e-Sata-Front-Panel-Hub-35.asp

 

[Doclife]

If your motherboard has USB 3.0 header, and your case does not support USB 3.0, use this inexpensive front panel

http://cmstore.coolermaster-usa.com/product_info.php?products_id=664

 

[Zap]

I'm planning on building a new computer and was reading the description of cases. How come some cases can't support USB 3? I mean if it's the same shape/size as USB 2 why is there a difference?

They have a different pinout. USB 3.0 has the same four pins as USB 2.0, but has a few additional pins hidden inside the port. Thus it retains backwards compatibility with USB 2.0 devices. Ports that are USB 2.0 will not support USB 3.0 at the higher speeds because it is missing those extra pins.