anything to look out for when buying a usb hub?

Wuming

Golden Member
Dec 14, 2000
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or just the price and the size of the thingy? any brands to avoid or any brands to go for?
 

HeinekinMan

Senior member
Nov 2, 2000
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I recently bought a mini 4-port hub (SIIG USB Minihub 4000P); paid $12.99 for it (on sale) and it had a $10.00 rebate!! Not sure if the rebate is still good but it has been a real reliable unit thus far. I've got one device connected to it (scanner) but the installation was a breeze (plug and play) and hasn't caused any device conflicts...

Heiny
 

Wuming

Golden Member
Dec 14, 2000
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hmm... where did you buy it from? is the hub big and needs to be powered? i would really like those small hubs that i can hide easily, and those that do not need to be separately powered.
 

Nullity

Senior member
Oct 13, 1999
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I bought a $14 Inland 4 port self-powered USB hub and have 3 devices (scanner, printer, and webcam). I've tried running all devices at the same time and I haven't seen any decrease in speed or performance. I bought mine a Frys. ;)

Null
 

HeinekinMan2

Banned
Nov 2, 2000
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Wuming,

Yeah it's very small (smaller than a pack of cigs), uses an external AC adapter that is also small. It looks as though it could be an accessory for an Apple iMac (very well designed asthetically!). You could easily hide it on your desk or in my case, it is mounted on the side of my desk next to my ethernet hub. Bought it at Fry's Electronics (it's regular price is $19.99 which is still a good price). And so far no problems with it.
 

SUOrangeman

Diamond Member
Oct 12, 1999
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Other than self-powered (AC), the only other option you may want to look into is compatibility with USB 2.0. We are still a good ways from USB 2.0 devices, but I thought I'd mention it if you like being a good year or two ahead of the game. :)

-SUO
 

Nullity

Senior member
Oct 13, 1999
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I don't see a power adapter for that thing. You might have a few problems with some devices that depend on the USB port for power.

Null
 

Wingznut

Elite Member
Dec 28, 1999
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Definitely get one that's powered. I've got this one. You can run it with or without power, depending on your needs. Right now I have my printer, Sidewinder joystick, and Explorer mouse running on it. Works like a charm, and less than $23.

(EDIT: Stay away from that 'mini hub'.)