I'm a a hardware noob, ASUS Rampage III Extreme has 1 USB header?

[odie147]

I'm looking to have a PC built and the site (pcspecialist) told to reconsider my option for the 2 PORT USB 3.0 INTERNAL PCI EXPRESS CARD me this on my build

'The ASUS Rampage III Extreme motherboard only has one internal USB header port, and therefore we strongly recommend you order the NZXT Internal USB Expansion Device, which can be selected under the "USB Options" category. This will convert the USB header into three headers, allowing you to connect and power up to four front USB ports and a memory card reader.'

I looked at the NZXT, it was fine but it wasn't USB 3.0. I'm trying to make this PC as future-proof as possible. Looking at the description of the motherboard I found this under the USB section,

USB Ports 2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports (at back panel)
9 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports (2 ports at midboard; 6 ports at back panel, 1 reserved for ROG Connect)

I'm really confused, what actually is a USB header? Does it really matter if I only have 1? What should I do? Will it only be USB 2.0 if I go for the NZXT?

 

[huron]

A USB header is what the front ports of your case plug in to.

It provides the connection and power for those ports. A USB header typically powers two USB ports.

If you don't have more than a pair of front USB ports, I'd say it's a non-issue. Some other devices may user it (like card readers), but if that's not a concern for you, I'd say you're OK.

If the NZXT doesn't have USB 3.0 ports, you won't have a place to plug in, though I thought a few other those motherboards included their own bays for USB 3.0.

If the back has 3.0, you could always use those too.

On another note - future-proof is next to impossible. Light-peak (I can't remember if that's the real name now) is out and could be used instead of USB 3.0. eSATA seemed great, but didn't really take off. It's just difficult to tell what will become the "standard"

Get something that works for you now, with slots on the board to expand. Typically, manufacturers will release add-on cards that may add features. You could always grab one of those if the need arises.

 

[odie147]

That helps a lot and clears a lot up, thanks for the quick reply

I think I might just stick with the pair on the front, I guess I could always get a external USB hub? My keyboard has 2 USB ports on the back anyway which I use for my headset and printer. The only real reason I am interested in 3.0 is for my external hard drive

I'll probably just grab an add-on card if I need it later on for the light-peak thing, I don't really see it over-taking USB anytime soon... but who knows what will happen?

 

[huron]

Yep...you could always use a hub.

Happy to help.