HDAUDIO frontpanel upgrade module for 5.25inch drive bay Compatibility and audio reliability This module provides an HDAUDIO interface. It requires a motherboard that supports HDAUDIO to function. Currently, all motherboards on the market support the HDAUDIO interface. If your BIOS is set to AC97 for audio output, switch it back to HDAUDIO to restore sound playback. Installation location and size Special notice: this panel is designed to install in the optical drive position of the chassis, occupying a 5.25inch drive bay. USB expansion and front access As USB devices proliferate, the chassis USB ports can become insufficient. This device converts the motherboard USB 19pin and 9pin interfaces into 2 USB 3.0 ports and 2 USB 2.0 ports on the front panel. Installation allows you to place the panel in an idle optical drive position, providing convenient front USB access and reducing the need to bend down to plug in cables. USB speed and compatibility caveats If this panel is connected to USB 2.0 interfaces, it will not increase USB 3.0 speeds for USB 3.0 devices. Installation caveat When , check the optical drive position mounting holes in your chassis. If the mounting hole is round and not elongated, verify the size to avoid uneven installation or mounting issues. Practical use scenarios Frontpanel USB access: build or upgrade a PC with limited front USB ports, giving easy access to two USB 3.0 ports and two USB 2.0 ports without reaching behind the motherboard. Audio recovery: ensure HDAUDIO audio output by using the correct BIOS setting, useful for systems previously set to AC97. Quiet or compact builds: install in an unused optical drive bay to maximize internal space while keeping ports readily accessible.