Jan112012

Is a USB 3 HDD backward compatible with a USB 1.1 port?

tboyz asks:

Will my 640GB Transcend Store Jet 25D3, USB 3 HDD work in a USB 1.1 port? Can I use this superspeed HDD in a USB 1.1 port? Thanks!



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  • Anonymous January 11, 2012

    USB 3.0 is backwards-compatible with USB 2.0 ports, on USB 1.1 perhaps you can have some problems?

  • FIDELIS January 11, 2012

    Hello, Even though the plug for USB 1.1 is same as USB2, there are a few differences between both.  From checking the specs and packaging for your drive, it does not mention anything about USB 1.1.

    http://www.myce.com/review/transcend-storejet-25m3-and-25d3-usb3-hdd-review-34129/

    Requirements for your drive show only back compatibility with USB2.  I am afraid, your drive would not work with USB 1.1.  If you have the drive and the computer already, the only way to make sure is to try.  I do not think anything bad would come out of it.  For more info on USB3, visit the following link:

     http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USB_3.0 

    If it is a desktop, your best solution would be to install a USB3 card.  If it is a laptop, you could add USB3 ports through a Expresscard-to-USB 3.0 adapter.

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