USB 3.0 Cases - Worth the wait?

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D

DoPe

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Apr 13, 2010
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Hey all,

I've pretty much set my mind on getting a HAF 932 for an upcoming gaming rig build, but I've been hearing word of new USB 3.0 cases popping up sometime in the next few weeks (I've seen the Lian Li PC-A77F model, nothing else yet). Was just wondering if anyone who is/was considering an upgrade were thinking of playing the waiting game as well, withstanding what I would guess is a pretty hefty price range (~$390 for the Lian Li full tower case last I checked). Just curious about everyone's thoughts about this and the status of USB 3.0 cases in general :)

Thanks for any input!
 
Solution
geofelt
While there is both forward and backward compatibility between usb 2.0 and 3.0, you will need to have all usb 3.0 components in the path to reach 3.0 speeds. Thus the emergence of 3.0 usb 3.0 ports on cases.

What will you be using usb 3.0 for?

1) You will need a motherboard or add-in expansion card that supports usb 3.0 and provides a usb 3.0 connector.
2) You will have to attach that connector to a usb 3.0 capable port. That port will be either on the case, the back panel of the motherboard, or a port on an expansion module attached to the back of the PC.
3) You will need a usb 3.0 cable.
4) Only then can you attach your usb 3.0 device that is faster than the current usb 2.0 devices.

In time, case manufacturers will...
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geofelt

geofelt

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Oct 9, 2006
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While there is both forward and backward compatibility between usb 2.0 and 3.0, you will need to have all usb 3.0 components in the path to reach 3.0 speeds. Thus the emergence of 3.0 usb 3.0 ports on cases.

What will you be using usb 3.0 for?

1) You will need a motherboard or add-in expansion card that supports usb 3.0 and provides a usb 3.0 connector.
2) You will have to attach that connector to a usb 3.0 capable port. That port will be either on the case, the back panel of the motherboard, or a port on an expansion module attached to the back of the PC.
3) You will need a usb 3.0 cable.
4) Only then can you attach your usb 3.0 device that is faster than the current usb 2.0 devices.

In time, case manufacturers will provide usb 3.0 ports as standard. Until then, you probably will be OK with the current crop of cases. Go ahead and get your favored haf932 case. If you need fast external backup, you can still use e-sata, or use the usb 3.0 port on a suitable motherboard along with a suitably long cable.

If you are interested in a USB 3.0 flash drive that will be inserted and removed often, then perhaps a case with a convenioen usb 3.0 port in front might be better.
 
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zeepkist

zeepkist

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May 5, 2008
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you would be better off with the Cooler Master HAF X, which packs 2 USB 3.0 ports on the front I/O panel.

your problem comes when you want to connect these ports to a header on the motherboard, there are no motherboards as yet with USB 3.0 headers on the board.
they all have 2 USB 3.0 ports on the back panel.

it will come i am sure but even on Computex this week i have not heard anything about USB 3.0 headers on a board.

anyone has news on this?
 
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