One of the problems with my new laptop is the limited number of USB ports available (two) for external devices. Not only does my V450 laser mouse require USB, but so does my Zune, cell phone, PDA, camera and less commonly used items such as my color analyzer. It seems like I'm constantly plugging and unplugging USB devices into my laptop due to limited resources. Well that has finally stopped because my laptop is now connected to a Belkin 7-port USB 2.0 Plus Hub that makes connecting to multiple USB devices simple. Powered by a hefty 3.8 amp 5 volt power adapter, the Belkin 7-Port USB 2.0 Plus Hub provides connectivity for up to seven USB 1.1 or 2.0 devices through a single USB port. Our test laptop, a Sony Vaio VGN-N130G, only has two USB ports on the right side. This was a little frustrating at times, but not any longer. Cascading two hubs is not a problem as the units are designed to have one stacked on the other. If you were wondering why the open slotted square in the middle of the case exists. This saves space and give the user plenty of USB ports. A flexible side cable management slot keeps cables in check and help prevent a wiring mess on the desktop.

The two USB ports on the top of the hub are provided for quick access to wireless sticks such as Bluetooth, WiFi, or 2.4GHz mice. It also accommodates larger USB sticks such as the Pinnacle PCTV HD tuner that may not otherwise fit into the tight quarters on the rear panel where the remaining five USB ports are located. A mini USB interface is used to connect the hub to a computer using the provided cable. Indicator lights shine through the opaque chassis for power (orange) and for each of the connected USB devices (green) to provide status to the user. The hub only gets slightly warm to touch and provides up to 0.5 amps per USB device connected. In most cases this is enough current for the majority of USB products connected.

Conclusion
The Belkin 7-port USB 2.0 Plus Hub is a great way to maximize your USB devices while minimizing the mess associated with connecting them. Installation is very simple and requires no software. The hub is compatible with Windows 98, 2000, ME, XP and Vista as well as Mac OS 9 and OS 10. The package includes the 7-port hub, power adapter, USB cable, and users manual. With an MSRP of $49.99 the Belkin 7-port USB 2.0 Plus Hub is a steal.

- Kevin Nakano

Desktop PC - Sony Vaio VGN-N130G

Belkin - 7 Port USB Plus Hub

Features

Part # F5U307-WHT
UPC: 722868620489
MSRP: $49.99

Company Information
Belkin Corporation
501 West Walnut Street
Compton, CA 90220
Customer Service/Sales: 800-2BELKIN, 800-223-5546
Sales: 877.523.5546
Tech Support: 310-898-1100 ext. 2263
Fax: 310-898-1111

URL: www.belkin.com