Running out of USB connections

By Fred Litt, Family Technology Associates 

Older laptops have only one USB slot.  Old desktops were typically built with two.  Given that every external device (printer, digital camera, iPod, et al) now requires a USB connection, how do you add more when you run out?  It’s simple.  For about $30, you can buy an external 4-port USB ‘splitter’ – sometimes called a ‘USB hub’.  Any brand will do.   

The USB hub is a small device about the size of a TV remote control that plugs into your available USB connection.  It’s just like plugging in a 6 plug power strip to get more 3-prong electrical outlets.  You sacrifice one USB connection to get 4.  Most also come with an electrical connection they must be plugged in.  One more thought on this topic - when you buy a new PC, make sure you ask how many USB connections are built into the desktop/laptop.  Try to get at least 4. 

This article may be reproduced with permission of Fred Litt, Family Technology Associates. Contact Fred at 201-315-4943 fred@FamilyTechnology.com for details.