SMB_Cable of Front Panel connector

[Romantic_User]

When I tried to install HP ENVY TE02 desktop, I found there are a couple of cables for the front panel,such as USB3, power on, LED, and Audio... However, there's a 4pin named SMB_Cable that I didn't know where to plus on the motherboard.

What's the function of this cable?

[Max3Aj]

@Romantic_User, Welcome to HP Support Community. 

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you. 

The SMB_Cable (System Management Bus) is a 4-pin cable commonly used in desktops for thermal and hardware monitoring communication, such as:

• Front panel sensor communication (temperature, fan speed, etc.)
• Connection to ambient light or environmental sensors
• Some OEM front panel card readers or diagnostic modules
  • This cable is not always required for basic front panel functions (like power button, LED, or USB), and its usage depends on the specific motherboard and chassis configuration.

Where does it connect?

On HP systems like the ENVY TE02, the SMB cable typically connects to a 4-pin SMBus header on the motherboard, usually labeled something like:

• SMB, SMBUS, or JSMB
• Located near the chipset, or between PCIe and memory slots

Important: Not all motherboards have this header exposed or in use. If your TE02 motherboard doesn’t show a clearly labeled SMB or JSMB header in the manual or on the board, you may leave the cable unplugged—it won’t affect core functionality like power, USB, or audio.

Recommended Steps:

• Check your motherboard label near the edges or PCIe slots for a 4-pin header labeled SMB or JSMB.
• If found, match the cable connector orientation carefully and plug it in gently.
• If no matching header exists, secure the cable aside (but not under tension) and leave it disconnected.
   

We suggest you please visit the nearest HP authorized service center, the service team will check and assist you. 
Kindly follow this link to locate the nearest HP service center: HP® サービス センター検索 - 日本 |HP® サポート
(Select the country from the dropdown menu and enter the city name or pincode) 
 

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day. 

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Select "Yes" on the bottom left to say “Thanks” for helping! 

Max3Aj

HP Support