Ask HN: Why aren't there any USB-C hubs with only USB-C connectors?
5 comments
There is a technical reason. USB-C is not just a data connection standard like ethernet. Each pin has specific limitations on what it can/cant be used for to stay in spec.
Here is a good summary https://www.dell.com/community/Laptops-General-Read-Only/Dem...
So most manufactures pick the standard modes that are cheap to implement. This means they minimize the hardware on their side of the cable.
Here is a good summary https://www.dell.com/community/Laptops-General-Read-Only/Dem...
So most manufactures pick the standard modes that are cheap to implement. This means they minimize the hardware on their side of the cable.
My usb-c keyboard has an integrated usb3.2 hub 4 full speed ports, 2 type c and 2 type a
https://system76.com/accessories/launch/?gclid=CjwKCAiAlrSPB...
When I need to plug 4 usb-c devices in, I use 2 usb-a to usb-c adaptors and it works great
https://system76.com/accessories/launch/?gclid=CjwKCAiAlrSPB...
When I need to plug 4 usb-c devices in, I use 2 usb-a to usb-c adaptors and it works great
There's a few out there [1] if you really need one -- most include some USB-A ports as well because the cost difference is small.
[1] https://www.coolgear.com/product/usb-power-delivery-4-port-t...
[1] https://www.coolgear.com/product/usb-power-delivery-4-port-t...
Thanks! That one is out of stock, and $300.
But inspired by your find, I searched again and found this on Amazon for a mere $100
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07M68BNQQ/ref=ox_sc_act_t...
But inspired by your find, I searched again and found this on Amazon for a mere $100
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07M68BNQQ/ref=ox_sc_act_t...
I've been all in on USB-C/Thunderbolt since 2016.
Unfortunately still using the same 2016 monitor (LG Ultrafine 5K) as well since there don't seem to be any decent 5K alternatives.
However, the Ultrafine does have one USB-C connection to the computer (for video in and power out) and three additional USB-C ports, qualifying it as a USB-C hub with only power and USB-C connectors. ;-)
Unfortunately still using the same 2016 monitor (LG Ultrafine 5K) as well since there don't seem to be any decent 5K alternatives.
However, the Ultrafine does have one USB-C connection to the computer (for video in and power out) and three additional USB-C ports, qualifying it as a USB-C hub with only power and USB-C connectors. ;-)
> I can find guns with USB-C to multiple USB-A ports
That sounds like a useful feature for firearms.
> but then I lose the benefit of being able to plug in the connector on the first try,
You could permanently attach compact USB A-to-C adapters to get some of this benefit.
That sounds like a useful feature for firearms.
> but then I lose the benefit of being able to plug in the connector on the first try,
You could permanently attach compact USB A-to-C adapters to get some of this benefit.
My application is being able to plug in multiple USB devices with USB-C cables. I can find guns with USB-C to multiple USB-A ports, but then I lose the benefit of being able to plug in the connector on the first try, without trying three orientations.
The only USB-C "hubs" I can find are expensive docking stations that have Ethernet, HDMI, etc. but do not significantly expand the number of USB-C ports.
Is there a technical reason for this, or is it just a product marketing choice by manufacturers?