Beware of Multiple USB Ports

     Some of today's computers come equippped with multiple USB (Universal Serial Bus) ports, since many peripherals today are connected to computers through them...printers, external hard drives, jump drives, card readers  - even a wireless mouse and keyboard.  The problem is that some computers, especially notebooks, have only one or two USB ports.  Manufacturers, therefore, have developed multiple USB port attachment devices called hubs.  Think of them as the multiple-outlet exension cords, which turn one AC power outlet into 3 or more for additional electrical items.

     The problem - USB provides not only a data portal, but also provides power to the device to which it is connected.   Computers that have only two USB ports can effectively power 2 peripherals in addition to the processor, fan, and other internal components of the computer.  Therefore, some USB hubs may require additional power so that the four or more USB devices it accepts can all function properly.  This isn't a problem for a desktop computer, but may present complications for a notebook environment.  The battery-powered notebook with wireless Internet capabilities can make for truly portable computing solution.  However, if multiple USB peripherals means plugging in a power adapter, into your hub to effectively power all your peripherals, you may have to decide which peripherals are more important to your mobile workstation.

     If you require additional USB ports without the inconvenience of having to find a power source for your USB hub, be sure to research your purchase.  Don't assume any USB hub out there will do what you require it to do.

© Michael V. Ziemski, Instrumediatech, 2008 (Original Publication Date: 20080526)

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