NZXT IU01 USB Expansion Module

Product: NZXT IU01 USB Expansion
Provided By: iBUYPOWER
Price: ~$20.99 Online

Introduction:

If you've put together a system in the past few years that had some non-standard devices installed, such as watercooling, fan control units and other USB peripherals, you've probably ran short of USB ports more than once.  Today we are looking at a device from NZXT that helps expand the number of USB ports in your system by a factor of eight (six actually, because it requires two).  We are talking about the NZXT IU01 USB Expansion device that plugs into your motherboards USB header and gives you a couple of external USB ports as well as six internal USB ports.  While you may not see the usefulness of this immediately, I'm sure you will in a few moments.

USB Expansion Box

Back Of Box

While NZXT is actually the company that made the device, we picked up this particular unit at CES when visiting with iBUYPOWER.  They have the right idea, but they short change themselves on the number of internal ports.  It is actually six - not three.

Before we carry on any further, let's take a look at the features and specifications according to NZXT.

Features and Specifications:

The IU01 addresses an issue common to most gaming PCs that is a lack of substantial power and expandability from the front-panel USBs. The IU01 enhances control and boosts power for front-panel USB devices by connecting them directly to the power supply as opposed to the motherboard, ensuring that there's always enough power to control your accessories and peripherals. The IU01 also adds six internal USB ports that are great for powering items that you don't need constant access too like a Bluetooth module or USB wireless router allowing you to free up the external ports for additional accessories.

• 6 Internal USB expansion
• 2 External USB expansion
• Dedicated power from power supply
• Plug and use, no drivers needed
  

First Look:

The NZXT and iBUYPOWER versions of the IU01 come with exactly the same contents.  The PCB, a power cable, USB cable and a quick install guide.  There is really not that much to explain - especially to those that have built a system and can plug in USB cables to motherboard headers.

 
Bundle

On the next page, we'll have a closer look at this device, plug it in and see what it actually offers.