Can I upgrade from USB 2.0 to USB 3.0?

[TripleDigitRide]

I have a HP p6754y desktop PC that was purchased in late 2010 or early 2011. Is there any way to upgrade from USB 2.0 to USB 3.0, while getting the full benefits of USB 3.0? Or will be be some watered down version of USB 3.0?

 

There are 2 USB ports on the front panel, and 4 ports on the back. Without opening the case, I can't tell if the USB tray can be removed.

 

Thank you in advance for any assistance.

Edited August 10, 2013 by TripleDigitRide

[cannoncocker]

Short answer.... Yes.

 

If you have an available PCI E slot and a 5v power connector from the PC power supply you can use something like this:

 

http://www.amazon.com/Anker%C2%AE-Express-Connector-Desktops-Chipset/dp/B005ARQV6U/ref=sr_1_15?ie=UTF8&qid=1376161995&sr=8-15&keywords=usb+3.0+boards

 

If you don't have an available PCI E slot you may be able to replace, if they are on a removable board, the 4 slots in the back with a 3.0 board.

 

HP may be able to help.

[Guest TankerHC]

Dont need a slot, can use a front panel with an available SATA 3/0 or 6/0 port.

[TripleDigitRide]

What is a SATA 3/0 or 6/0 port? 

[TripleDigitRide]

Here's a picture of the inside. I can take more, if needed.

 

[Sam1]

The only way to do it is to add a card, you need a pci express to usb 3.0 card, something like this: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16815166026

 

Might be some cheaper out there, that's just the first one that popped up

[Guest TankerHC]

Already looked at the schematic on the board. Has 4 slots for expansion. 3 PCI-E 1 (One is a microcard slot) and 1 PCI-E 16, plus 4 SATA ports, 3 1's and a 4. Tons of room for expansion.

[10-Ring]

I can't tell you about converting yours but I just bought a new laptop with USB 3.0.  I transfer 50-75 gigs of data from my laptop to an external hard drive on a daily basis.  I absolutely love the USB 3.0.  I'm easily getting transfer rates twice as fast as 2.0 and sometimes as much as 4 times that of 2.0.

[TripleDigitRide]

TankerHC has helped walk me through the process. I'm just about there. Thanks for the info, guys. It's much appreciated.