Q on USB 3.0 and internal i/o connectors for usb 2,0

[wjgollatz]

The last time I built a computer was before USB 3.0 motherboards and equipment was readily or cost effectively available.

I see motherboards supporting USB 3.0, but that the internal i/o connecteors are only usb 2.0. I read a review in newegg that said (for what its worth) that the motherboard only has ports for usb 3.0, but does not natively support it.

So - I'm confused now because I never used usb 3.0 and would like to now with my new build.

What are these internal i/o usb 2.0 connectors. Seems many, if not all motherboards have usb 3.0 ports at least, but only usb 2.0 internal i/o connectors. So - is there a relationship? I don't want a motherboard with a usb 3.0 adapting port, I'd like usb 3.0 support through and through.

For instance this: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...k=P8Z68-V%20LX

Does this support USB 3.0, or does it support USB 3.0 devices with only USB 2.0 speed?

 

[VirtualLarry]

You are confused. There are no USB3.0 ports that only run at USB2.0 speed.

All USB3.0 ports should run properly at USB3.0 speeds, as long as the drivers are installed.

Many USB3.0 ports are not "native" to the system chipset, but instead, they are provided by a 3rd-party chipset integrated onto the mobo. This is not generally an issue.

I think that the issue you are concerned with, is the front-panel USB3.0 headers. These are useful if you have a modern enough case to come with USB3.0 on the front panel. (Rosewill Blackhawk is one of these.)

Front-panel USB3.0 is considered still to be a premium feature, which is why you don't see it on that motherboard you linked, because that is an entry-level board.

So in short, that board does have USB3.0 ports, on the rear I/O panel, but does not have front-panel USB3.0, only front-panel USB2.0 ports.