Product function and key benefits Frontpanel module designed to occupy a standard 5.25inch optical drive bay. Adds convenient front access to USB and HD audio connections without modifying the case layout. Provides easytoreach ports for daily use (headphones, microphone, USB devices) and keeps rear I/O . Audio is routed directly from the motherboard, preserving the motherboard's native sound quality; the panel's cable does not alter the audio characteristics. Compatibility and important installation notes Bay size: installs in a 5.25inch opticaldrive position. Confirm your case has an available 5.25inch bay before . Screw hole check: the panel requires a compatible screw/fixing hole arrangement. If your chassis uses a round hole or an unusual screw position, measure the hole length and position in advance to avoid uneven installation or fit issues. USB connection: if the panel is connected to USB 2.0 interfaces/headers, any USB 3.0 device plugged into the panel will be limited to USB 2.0 speeds. To get full USB 3.0 performance, connect the panel to a USB 3.0capable header or controller when applicable. Audio interface: the panel uses an HDAUDIO header. Your motherboard must support an HDAUDIO audio header to use the audio ports. If your BIOS audio setting is set to AC'97, switch it back to HDAUDIO in the BIOS; otherwise audio output will not work. Sound source: audio output is taken directly from the motherboard and depends on the motherboard's onboard audio chipset and your playback device. The panel cable itself does not change the sound quality. Practical details and performance Size: fits the standard 5.25inch optical drive bay in desktop chassis. Function: forwards motherboard USB and HDAUDIO signals to frontpanel ports for immediate access. Performance: data transfer speeds and audio quality depend on the motherboard headers and connected devices; connecting to lowerspec headers will limit performance accordingly. Installation tips Before installation, verify bay size and screwhole type and position. Confirm which USB header (USB2.0 vs USB3.0) you will connect to if you need full USB 3.0 speeds. Connect the audio cable to the motherboard HDAUDIO header and set BIOS audio to HDAUDIO (not AC'97) to enable frontpanel audio. Route cables neatly to avoid strain on connectors and ensure firm seating of the panel in the bay. Use scenarios Daily desktop convenience: Add front access for headphones, microphone, and USB devices in a home or office desktop that lacks front ports. System upgrades or rebuilds: Install into an available 5.25inch bay when upgrading an older case to provide modern front I/O without replacing the chassis. Test bench or workstation: Quickly connect USB devices and audio peripherals while troubleshooting or testing hardware, with easy access to motherboard headers. What to check before buying Confirm your case has a 5.25inch bay and compatible screwhole layout. Verify the motherboard has the required headers: HDAUDIO for audio and the desired USB header (USB2.0 or USB3.0) depending on the speeds you expect. Ensure BIOS audio mode is set to HDAUDIO (not AC'97) for correct frontpanel sound.