Plugable Technologies USB3-HUB81X4

4-Port USB 3.0 Hub (4A Power Adapter and VL811 chipset) - Port USB 3.0 hub (also backward compatible with all USB 2.0 hosts and devices).
- Simple, clean port layout (all ports on two sides) to avoid desktop clutter.
- 4A power adapter for full support of USB 3.0′s higher available 900mA per port.
- VIA 81X hub controller for maximum compatibility and performance. Firmware upgradable.
- Current version not for USB-IF / Microsoft Winqual testing.

Features the leading VIA USB 3.0 hub controller chipset with upgradable firmware for maximum compatibility with the evolving universe of available USB 3.0 hardware. Full forward and backward compatibility between USB 3.0 and 2.0/1.1 hosts and devices. Enables use now with USB 2.0 systems and devices, while being ready for a future USB 3.0 upgrade. With both a USB 3.0 capable host and device, supports the higher transfer rates of the new USB 3.0 specification (up to 10x USB 2.0 speeds). The hub itself requires no drivers, other than those already on the host.

For those interested in USB-IF certified hardware: On May 24th, an upcoming revision of this model was among the first USB 3.0 hubs to receive USB-IF certification. We will be transitioning over to the USB-IF certified version late this summer. When that happens, you’ll see the official USB-IF logo appear on all our materials and we’ll mention the certification in the listing. Want to get notified when these units are available? Email support@plugable.com and and ask to be notified – we’ll be happy to do so.

The hub’s one upstream port and four downstream ports support not just SuperSpeed transfer (5Gbps), but are also backwards compatible with previous USB specifications and offer support for Hi-Speed (480Mbps), Full-Speed (12Mbps), and Low-Speed (1.5Mbps) traffic. SuperSpeed USB not only makes transferring HD video files, high pixel count digital photos, and backing up hard drives quick and easy. USB’s practical speeds vary by device, but are lower than the theoretical speeds.

Includes higher capacity 4A AC power adapter, for powering every port to USB 3.0′s maximum of 900mA. Power management features include the ability for devices to communicate latency tolerance to the host and for links to enter progressively lower power states when link partners are idle. The VIA chipset is unique in that it is the first USB hub controller to use advanced 80nm CMOS technology, further lowering the chip’s power usage.