Description
The DigiFusion PEN219 is a high-performance PCI-E expansion card designed to modernize desktop connectivity. Utilizing the industry-standard Renesas 720201 (formerly NEC) chipset, this card ensures stable 5Gbps data transfer rates across four USB 3.0 ports. It bridges the gap for older motherboards by providing two external Type-A ports and an internal 19-pin header for seamless front-panel chassis integration.
This product is for:
- Legacy PC owners looking to upgrade from USB 2.0 to high-speed USB 3.0 for faster external storage backups.
- Custom PC builders needing an internal 19-pin header to activate front-panel USB ports on modern cases.
- IT professionals requiring stable, multi-port connectivity for server environments including Windows Server 2008 and 2003.
- Creative professionals who frequently swap high-bandwidth peripherals like external SSDs and card readers.
- Small form factor (SFF) users who benefit from the included low-profile bracket for compact workstation builds.
Detailed specifications:
- Chipset: Renesas (NEC) uPD720201 High-Performance Controller.
- Bus Interface: PCI Express 1X (Compatible with 4X, 8X, and 16X slots).
- Ports: 2 x External USB 3.0 Type-A, 1 x Internal 19-pin Header (supports 2 front ports).
- Transfer Rate: Up to 5Gbps (SuperSpeed USB 3.0).
- Power Requirement: Integrated SATA power connector (mandatory for stable operation).
- Safety Features: Per-port overcurrent protection and signal noise filtering.
- OS Compatibility: Windows 11, 10, 8.1, 8, 7, Vista, XP, 2000; Windows Server 2008/2003.
Installation is straightforward thanks to the PCI-E 1X form factor, which fits into any available PCI-E slot. The Renesas chipset is widely recognized for its driver stability and broad compatibility across various Windows versions. Users will notice a significant reduction in file transfer times when moving large media files compared to standard USB 2.0. The inclusion of independent noise filtering on each port ensures that sensitive peripherals, like audio interfaces or high-speed drives, maintain a clean and consistent signal without data corruption.
Unlike generic USB expansion cards that rely on lower-tier controllers, the PEN219 uses the Renesas 720201 chipset, known for superior thermal management and lower latency. While many cards only offer rear ports, the PEN219’s 19-pin header is a critical differentiator for users with modern PC cases that feature front-panel USB 3.0 ports. Furthermore, the dedicated SATA power input provides more consistent amperage than cards drawing power solely from the PCI-E bus, preventing disconnects during high-load operations.
Q&A:
- Does this card require external power? Yes, the internal SATA power connector must be connected to your power supply to ensure all four ports receive stable voltage.
- Is a low-profile bracket included for slim cases? Yes, the package includes a short bracket (low-profile) for compatibility with small form factor desktops.
- Can I use this in a PCI-E x16 slot? Absolutely, the PCI-E 1X interface is fully compatible with x4, x8, and x16 slots.
- Does it support Windows 11? Yes, the card is fully compatible with Windows 11 as well as legacy systems back to Windows XP.
- What is the maximum speed of the ports? The card supports USB 3.0 SuperSpeed specifications, providing a maximum theoretical bandwidth of 5Gbps.
