7/3
Port USB Hub with Charging.…
© 2016 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
BOB SKIDMORE
CORRESPONDENT
Most Internet devices have a limited number of USB
ports. Laptops generally one or two, desktops three or four and smart TV’s vary
from 1 to five. In the early days of digital devices, that are in some fashion
computer accessories, one or two USB ports were sufficient, but now with all
the USB dependent peripherals, it never seems like you have enough.
A USB hub is a device that provides additional ports
while only being plugged into one main port. It’s much like an electrical
strip. There are many hubs available, but they vary in size and design. They
come in many capacities, but are not necessarily equally as efficient. Some
require no power, while others are powered by an external power source. Most
USB driven devices require some amount of electrical energy to function. In
some cases, two of the USB pins in the USB connector provide the current from
the port you are plugged into, however, many devices demand a much higher
current and when several devices are plugged into a hub with no external power
source that current drops significantly causing potential issues.
I recently tested the SenTey USB 3.0 Hub+Charger. What
I like about it is its shape, forward facing ports and brushed aluminum housing
that provides interference shielding. This combination works well on virtually
any surface and provides easy access to the ports. Its power indicator LED
indicates the supplied power supply is active. The power supply supplies 48
watts (12v/4a) and is more than enough to handle the potential load
requirement. It offers seven USB 3.0 ports that are downward compatible to
accommodate both USB 2.0, 1.2 and 1.1 requirements in older computers. It
features a transmission speed of up to 5Gbit/s (SuperSpeed). An additional
three ports offer charging capabilities for such things as smartphones, pads
and headsets.
(TIP: One
charging port offers 5 volts at 2.1 amps that’s suitable for pads and the other
two ports offer 5 volts at 1.0 amps for use with smartphones, headsets, etc.)
A USB connection cable to your computer or smart TV is
provided. Perhaps the only thing missing is a travel case, also not available
as an option.
Unlike other similar hubs, the SenTey USB 3.0 has yet
to fail even when all 7/3 ports are active. The three additional charging ports
are an additional plus that eliminates the need for individual chargers. You
may find this hub available under other brand names, something that happens a
lot by OEM (original equipment manufacturers). Prices vary considerably, so
check the Internet for the best deal!
GADGETEER’s RATING: ★★★★★
MSRP: $79.95 (Discounted pricing available on line)
Graphic credits:
Sentry
Bob Skidmore is a freelance
writer, who may be contacted at bob.thegadgeteer.skidmore@gmail.com, or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent,
or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his
points of view and not those of the manufacturer. The manufacturer generally
supplies products at no cost for the articles and no other compensation is
received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he feels worthy of
review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason for many superior
ratings.
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