r/thinkpad•
sami_399

USD-c 3.0 ExpressCard mod

Discussion / Information

I'm planning to do USB-C charging mod to my T430, but I also want to transfer data/charging earbuds. Since no USB-C ExpressCard adapters exist, I looked into other options. One person on Reddit managed to add USB-C using an mSATA-to-USB adapter routed to the ExpressCard slot, but he didn’t use the ExpressCard interface itself—just the space—and ended up damaging his motherboard while modifying the chassis.

So, I was wondering: could I use a standard dual USB 3.0 ExpressCard, remove one of the USB-A ports, and solder a 17-pin USB-C female board in its place? I know making it true PD would be hard but is there a way to give it more power? ExpressCard power seems a bit low.

Also how much would it cost to make truly usb c PD with all the new specs in ExpressCard using pcbway or jlcpcb?

Posted May 11, 2025, 4:42 PM UTC

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