StarTech.com 3 Port 2b 1a Low Profile 1394 PCI Express FireWire Card Adapter Model PEX1394B3LP

Pros: Device works well with Windows kernel debugging of mobile machines (laptops, slate, tablet, etc). Many of these kinds of systems don't have a serial port, and USB debugging is often difficult. By using this 1394 controller, it is often possible to debug these machines.

Cons: Wires too and from device are somewhat fragile.

Overall Review: A few things to be aware of if you plan on using this for debugging machines: 1: Not all PCIe Mini 'slots' in a machine actually support PCI signalling. Aften the only support USB signaling for wireless/mobile broadband devices. You won't be able to use this 1394 controller on a PCIe Mini port that does not have PCI signaling. 2: This is a full height PCIe Mini device. Many available ports are for half height cards. You can find bus extender cables to help resolve this problem.

Pros: Works on Asus ROG Maximus VII Gene with its native Mini-PCIe slot, Windows 10 Pro supported natively.

Cons: Does not recognize Sony Mini DV camera connected to 6-pin 1394A port. Camera originally worked on Intel DZ87 board with native 1394A port.

Overall Review: Maybe the included cable was bad? I can't tell without a replacement cable. I made sure to enable mPCIe support on the motherboard, otherwise Windows didn't see the card at all.

Pros: Small; Comes with both a Mini-ITX and full size bracket; Wiring is long enough for full size enclosure.

Cons: Wiring can be a awkward to handle if installed in smaller Mini-ITX enclosures (See below).

Overall Review: I installed this adapter into a M350 Universal Mini-ITX PC enclosure, which is as small as you can go as far as a Mini-ITX enclosure. It was awkward to route the excess wiring because it's long enough to accommodate full size enclosures. Once I figured it out and hit the button, Windows 8.1 immediately recognized it. Driver software was not necessary. I'm using this adapter for a Firewire audio interface. I'm also using it with a GIGABYTE GA-J1800N-D2H Intel Dual-Core Celeron J1800 SoC (2.41 GHz) Mini-ITX Motherboard Combo. I simply had to cut/file holes in the back plate to accommodate it. So far, an excellent adapter.

Pros: I am writing to correct a typo in my previous review. The phrase "simple and an expensive" should read "simple and inexpensive." Sorry about that.

Cons: None