WHAT IS A USB HUB AND HOW DOES IT WORK?

Resource Center » What is a USB Hub and How Does it Work?

A brief look at the functions and uses of a USB hub.

Most modern computer peripherals are connected to computers using Universal Serial Bus (USB) cables. As a result of this, newer desktop computers and laptops have more USB ports than older computers. However, even most newer computers only have approximately four USB ports, and that number is usually inadequate for a user with several peripherals. Desktop computer users may experience more of a hassle when accessing their USB ports because they are usually located at the back of the machine. Side access is usually provided for laptops, which makes them easier to reach, but the number of ports on laptops is often far too limited.

A USB hub is essentially a USB port multiplier; once it's plugged in to a USB port, it can provide over one hundred additional USB ports per computer! Bus-powered and self-powered are the two types of USB hubs. A bus-powered USB hub obtains its power only from the connected computer, it supports fewer peripherals, and it does not have enough power for some USB devices. A self-powered hub has an external power supply, it can support a greater number of peripherals, and it can usually provide full power to any device connected to it.

If you have an older computer, then it is necessary to look for hubs that are adaptable to USB 1.1 and USB 2.0 sizes. The older computers used the USB 1.0 size. It is advantageous to have a hub that can connect this older style port if you want to use newer devices. Regardless of the age of the computer, it is necessary to make sure the chosen USB hub is appropriate for it.

Card readers, keyboards, mice, digital cameras, MP3 players, external hard drives, printers, scanners, and fax machines are a few devices that connect to computers with USB cables. With so many choices, it is easy to see how extra USB ports could be useful on a daily basis. Someone who uses a laptop as a primary computer and as a travel computer would find the USB hub especially useful!

A desktop computer user would benefit from using a USB hub to connect and disconnect peripheral devices as well as to set up additional devices in more convenient locations. For units with a hard drive inside a desk or on the floor, the USB hub could bring the ports to desk level and make it easier for the cables to reach a USB port.

How To Guides
How a pen works and why the ink cartridge makes all the difference in the world
How are adhesive sticky note pads and cubes made/printed?
How are golf balls made?
How are golf umbrellas made?
How are paper cubes made/printed?
How are pens printed?
How are stress balls made?
How come different monitors display colors differently?
How did the frisbee get its name?
How do magnets work?
How does a mood color changing pencil, pen, or mug actually work?
How does an LED flashlight work?
How does embroidery work?
How does laser engraving work and why is the engravement the color it is?
How does the emulsion process work?
How is a sports bottle made?
How is denim made?
How much caffeine is in a typical cup of coffee?
How much water should a person drink in a day?
How to add your advertising/commercials to YouTube
How to collect postcards
How to measure and/or determine your hat size
How to properly wash your favorite baseball cap
How to read and properly use a ruler
How to read and properly use a tape measure
How to remove stickers without leaving all that sticky residue behind
Porcelain mugs and ceramic mugs? When should each be used/considered?
The different types of plastics and their number classifications (codes)
What are magnets made of?
What causes the waves that appear in some plastic (drinkware) items?
What is a deboss/emboss and how does it work?
What is digital sublimation?
What is a USB hub and how does it work?
What is ergonomics and what makes a product ergonomical?
What is neoprene? Why is it better than foam?
What is the difference between #2 lead and the rest?
Why do golf balls have those funny indentations?

Quality Logo Products, Inc. is your number one source for stress balls and promotional items.

Quality Logo Products, Inc. • 724 North Highland Avenue • Aurora, Illinois 60506
For assistance, email us at info@qualitylogoproducts.com or call 1-866-312-5646 • Monday - Friday.