Pci 3.0 Add-on Card Compatability

HP Z420. 32 gb ram. windows 10 Pro.

this system has 3.0 ports both external in front and back, but no headers on the MB.

the 'plan' is to add on a PCI card that has both a power connector and a 19 pin port for USB 3.0 to facilitate adding a 3.0 USB front panel.

Most of the front panels I've seen all tout a 20 pin connector. Can I put a 20 pin connector into a 19 pin? I'm concerned about compatibility. I google it and all I could find was the 20 pin connector has an unused hole and it's used more for proper insertion. Is that accurate info?

Is there a size limitation on the number of 3.0 ports I can used in the front panel based on what I hope to do?

 

Wait! This makes no sense - not for a factory made computer. If there are USB 3.0 ports in front and back (and the system specs data sheet confirms there are), then there must be 3.0 headers on the motherboard.

Do you mean no "extra" or "unused" motherboard headers?

Also, do not confuse PCI with PCIe (PCI Express). Despite their very similar names, they are very different and NOT compatible at all. While PCI is phasing out, PCI expansion cards are still readily available. If adding a card, you want PCIe.

Not sure what you mean by "unused hole" on the 20-pin connector. It sounds like you mean where the connector is keyed to ensure proper insertion, as you noted. Either way, I would not attempt to connect a 19-pin and a 20-pin together unless I was 200% certain of the pinouts. And by your description, I am not sure at all.

PCIe slots provide power through the slot. So you don't need to worry about that. There is no limit for the number of ports that I am aware of. HOWEVER, you certainly can attach too many devices to a port and place too great a demand for power through that port. So your connected devices should have their own power supplies.

There are PCIe expansion cards, like this one, that adds additional ports in back, as well as support for more ports internally, that might suit your needs. But if me, I would simply add a self powered USB 3.0 hub to my computer.

 

this is the one I have ordered. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08B847B68/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1

You're right . there must be something on the motherboard for USB 3.0 but nothing I can use - so no open ones.

I have found that with all the USB devices I tend to use all at the same time - a powered USB hub works better for me, but I just don't have the room in my small office. I'd rather just have them on the tower and easy to plug into.

Again you're right - it's a PCI E.

I don't have the aforementioned device yet. once I get that - then I want to order a front panel with multiple USB ports. I just want to make sure I'm doing it right.

 

Hopefully, when you get the card, it will explain the internal connectors so their is no confusion.