Expansion cards and adapters

Expansion cards and adapters add ports or connection types to a desktop PC, such as extra USB sockets or a front-panel USB Type-C connector. They suit anyone whose motherboard has run out of ports or lacks a newer standard. Our range includes products from INLINE, AKASA, Lenovo and Conceptronic.

How to choose an expansion card or adapter

Host interface. Check how the product connects to your computer first. Some of our cards use a PCIe slot on the motherboard, while others plug into a USB Type-A connection. A PCIe card needs a free slot of a suitable length, so look at your board's slot layout before ordering.

Output ports. Decide which devices you need to connect. In our range the outputs include USB 3.2 Gen 2 (also called USB 3.1 Gen 2) and USB Type-C. USB 3.2 Gen 2 offers up to 10 Gbps, which matters for external SSDs and fast storage, while a USB Type-C output is useful for modern phones, docks and drives with a reversible connector.

Internal or external use. Internal adapters usually connect to a header on the motherboard and bring a port to the front of the case. Cards that add ports at the back of the PC work differently and rely on a slot. Be clear about which of the two you need, because the two types are not interchangeable.

Case and bracket fit. A card with a full-height bracket will not fit in a slim or low-profile case without a shorter bracket. Check the case's slot type, and for front-panel adapters, make sure there is a free drive bay or panel opening where the connector will sit.

Compatibility and power. Confirm that your motherboard has the matching header or slot, and that your operating system supports the controller. Some cards that supply power to connected devices also need a power connector from the PSU, so check the product details for this.

Brands we carry

• INLINE: a German brand known for a large catalogue of cables, adapters and PC connectivity accessories.
• AKASA: known for PC cooling products, and also makes cables, adapters and other small internal accessories.
• Lenovo: a major PC manufacturer behind the ThinkPad, ThinkCentre and ThinkStation lines, whose accessories are generally intended for its own systems.
• Conceptronic: known for affordable computer peripherals and connectivity products for home and office use.
• Phanteks: known for PC cases and cooling, with accessories made to suit those cases.

Also in our range: CoreParts.

Frequently asked questions about expansion cards and adapters

What does an expansion card do?

An expansion card adds a function to a PC that the motherboard does not offer on its own, such as more USB ports or a newer connector type. It normally fits into a PCIe slot inside the case. Once installed, the new ports are available just like built-in ones.

Do I need a free PCIe slot to add USB ports?

Only if the product is a PCIe card. Some adapters connect through a USB Type-A port or to a motherboard header instead. Check the host interface in the product details to see which type you are buying.

Is USB 3.2 Gen 2 the same as USB Type-C?

No. USB 3.2 Gen 2 describes the transfer standard, with speeds up to 10 Gbps, while USB Type-C describes the shape of the connector. A Type-C port can run at different speeds depending on the controller, so check the specification, not only the plug type.

Will an expansion card fit in my case?

It will fit if the case has a free slot of the right size and the bracket matches that slot. Slim and small-form-factor cases often need a low-profile bracket. Measure the available space, or check the case specification, before you buy.