Expansion cards and controllers add functions to a PC or server that its motherboard lacks: RAID and SATA controllers, network adapters with an RJ-45 port, and cards with VGA output. Our range includes products from DELL, FUJITSU, HP Enterprise and ASUS, so you can choose for servers as well as workstations.
How to choose an expansion card or controller
Purpose and ports. Start by deciding what is missing: SATA ports for storage drives, a network port or a video output. Our range includes cards with SATA, RJ-45 and VGA connections.
Slot and space in the case. Most modern expansion cards use a PCI Express slot, which comes in different lengths (x1, x4, x8, x16). Check that your motherboard has a free suitable slot and that the card's bracket fits the case: low-profile cases need a shorter bracket.
Server compatibility. Controllers and adapters from DELL, FUJITSU and HP Enterprise are usually designed for specific server families. Compare the part number with the server documentation or its list of supported components, and make sure drivers exist for your operating system (Windows, Windows Server or Linux).
RAID features. If you need a disk array, choose a hardware RAID controller and check which RAID levels it supports and whether it has a cache. If you only need extra SATA ports, RAID functions are unnecessary.
Brands in our range
- DELL: a server manufacturer whose PERC RAID controllers for PowerEdge servers are widely used in business environments.
- FUJITSU: known for its PRIMERGY servers, for which it makes RAID controllers and other expansion adapters.
- HP Enterprise: maker of ProLiant servers, known for its Smart Array family of RAID controllers.
- ASUS and GIGABYTE: primarily motherboard manufacturers, so their expansion cards are generally aimed at consumer and workstation PCs.
- StarTech.com: specialises in connectivity adapters and PCIe expansion cards, for example for USB, serial and network ports.
- EXSYS: a German manufacturer known for industrial PC expansion cards, especially serial and USB.
Also in our range: Cisco.
Frequently asked questions
What is an expansion card used for?
An expansion card adds a function that the motherboard does not provide, such as extra SATA ports, a network port, a video output or RAID control. It plugs into a PCI Express or other expansion slot. This lets you upgrade a system without replacing the whole motherboard.
How does a RAID controller differ from a simple SATA expansion card?
A SATA expansion card only adds ports for drives, while a RAID controller can combine several drives into an array that improves speed or protects against drive failure. Hardware controllers often have their own processor and cache, so they put less load on the main processor.
Will a server controller work in other equipment?
Not always. Manufacturer controllers for servers are often compatible only with certain models and firmware, and sometimes need a special bracket or cables. Check the exact part number and the server's compatibility list.
How do I know whether a card will fit my computer?
Check the type and length of the free slot, the space in the case and the bracket height. A full-height card will not fit a low-profile case unless a shorter bracket is available. If the card needs extra power, check that connector as well.
