iBuyPower Supercharges Front Panel USB Ports with USB Internal Expansion Controller
Posted 08/18/09 at 10:41:03 AM by Paul Lilly
Whenever we receive a press release from iBuyPower, we expect it to detail the boutique system builder's latest gaming PC, but that isn't the case today. Instead, IBuyPower today announces its proprietary USB Internal Expansion System, otherwise known as an IES Controller.
So what exactly does it do? According to iBuyPower, the IES Controller "enhances control and boosts power to front panel USB ports and add-ons like card readers." It does this by connecting your front panel ports directly to your system's power supply, making it possible to deliver more juice to power hungry peripherals.
In addition to supercharging your front panel ports, the IES Controller also adds an internal USB port that iBuyPower says can be used for storage expansion with a flash drive or for adding a USB wireless router. Or hook up a Bluetooth module to the IES to free up a front panel USB port and sync up with your mouse, keyboard, printer, or other Bluetooth device.
For the time being, the IES is only available with the purchase of a new iBuyPower PC as a $14 add-on, or $24 with Bluetooth capabilities. No word on whether or not the OEM plans to sell the item as a standalone part.

Image Credit: iBuyPower
A novel idea...
Submitted by Steelwells on Tue, 08/18/2009 - 9:33am
Whether using bluetooth or not, connecting the wireless peripheral antennae internally is a great idea. I think there's definitely a concern with some devices and power from mainboards now so maybe this solves it.
Some vendor out there will mimic this - can't wait to see the price!
sucks you can only get it
Submitted by reckford on Tue, 08/18/2009 - 9:28am
sucks you can only get it from them.
My only concern here is..if
Submitted by AntiHero on Tue, 08/18/2009 - 8:37am
My only concern here is..if the peripheral doesn't regulate power it needs, is there a possibility of overpowering it and frying the device?
I don't like Microsoft, I associate with it.
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