USB hub extremely hot.

[BlueWeasel]

I purchased this cheap USB hub a few weeks ago, based on the generally good reviews:

Azio USB Hub

It's been hooked up and running fine using the external power supply. However, I moved it today and noticed it was extremely hot. Hot enough that it would probably burn my finger if I left it on there for 10 seconds or so.

I unplugged the external PS, let the hub cool down, and then powered it back with just the USB only. About 10 minutes later, it's just as hot as before.

I don't think this is typical and none of the Newegg reviews mention the hub being hot. Do most USB hubs get hot, or do I just have a malfunctioning unit?

 

[corkyg]

I use Belkin 7-port hubs - they get warm but not hot. Powering the hub is really essential for USB stability.

 

[Zepper]

What is used to power the unit - my i-Rocks uses a switching wall wart and stays cool. It's way too small to contain any linear regulating components. If yours uses a linear power supply and some of the regulating components are inside the hub itself, then there can be a heating issue, especially if the metal case is used for the heatsink as well. Linear dumps a lot of power as heat if the power isn't being used. I have an extra i-rocks 4100 for sale - 4-port self powered. Comes with downstream cable and wall wart. PM me if interested.

Are you mistakenly using the wrong wall wart on it. A guy I sold one of my 4100s to did that and blew his up. Yours comes with a switching wall wart and shouldn't overheat unless some of your USB devices are drawing a LOT more than they should. 500mA should be tops per port (that's all the distribution chip is rated for) - better to keep it below 400mA per port. I wouldn't want more than two or three ports drawing high current all the time. The power supply should be 5V at 2.5 to 3 Amps total max. I see one of the reviewers had a heating problem more severe than yours.

If it is past warranty (and probably even if not ), I'd open it up and check for proper wiring - make sure no hot (current carrying) wires get too near the case or other grounds inside.

.bh.

 

[BlueWeasel]

Thanks for the help. I checked the external power, and I'm using the correct one (5V, 2.0amps) for the hub. The strange thing is it gets extremely hot using when it is just powered by USB only.

I'm thinking something is definitely wrong with the hub. As cheap as these things are, it's not worth a fire.

Zep, I sent you a PM regarding your 4100. I've actually got a black 4100 at work, and it works nice and cool.