Considering the need to purchase an external USB hub
Considering the need to purchase an external USB hub
Hello,
I had a USB power surge on my non-external outlet powered USB Hub. Now I'm thinking about switching to a new option—specifically an external USB Hub powered by the outlet. However, I won't be using it for charging. Instead, I plan to connect it via Wi-Fi and a BL connector, along with a web camera and USB microphone. My concern is whether such a setup would still face power surges or other issues when transferring data from all devices.
Yes, if you're struggling to get enough power and connectivity for all your devices, a USB hub with wall power can be a good solution and will work well. The data being transferred through the USB isn't excessive, so it shouldn't overload the device. The main bandwidth consumers are your webcam and the Wi-Fi or Bluetooth adapter. Everything else will use minimal data. A single USB 3.0 port should suffice unless your webcam is a high-end model (1080p 60fps or 4K 30fps). For standard USB 2.0 webcams (up to 1080p30), it should be fine. Otherwise, consider using the webcam's dedicated USB port.
I can clarify your PC setup details, including the type of system (desktop or laptop), the number and types of USB ports available (such as 2.0, 3.0, Type-C), and the devices you plan to connect. You mentioned it might be possible to avoid an external powered USB hub, so I’ll focus on what you need.
I have a dual monitor PC setup with a 400W power supply. I have three free USB ports and the fourth will be an external USB hub.
I require:
1. Keyboard,
2. Mouse,
3. Webcam,
4. USB Wi-Fi connector,
5. BL connector,
6. Wireless headphones USB connector,
7. USB microphone,
and possibly three additional ports for a charging cable to headphones, PS4 controller, or charging station.
That was a bit hard to understand.
I’m not sure I’m catching what you mean.
This discussion seems to be heading in a direction that isn’t clear, and I think it would help if you phrased your question more clearly.
Your first message is also unclear, because it suggests there’s no USB hub that can supply external power—meaning you had an internal PCIe card with USB ports and connected it directly.
If that’s not your case, you should rephrase what you’re asking.
If you meant a PCIe USB hub that failed due to a power surge, then your concern about power surges is valid.
But if you’re thinking of using a hub that connects to a wall power strip, then it’s safer to avoid power surges.
If you’re planning to connect only a few devices like Wi-Fi/Bluetooth, a web camera, and a microphone, you might not need an external power source.
In that case, ensure your setup uses a surge protector for added safety.
Hi Bro, I think you might have misunderstood me. Let's keep it simple.
I currently use a USB hub that isn't powered externally—just a USB cable connecting to my PC. Because of power surges, I can't connect all the necessary hardware.
I'm considering buying an external hub this time, but this one will be powered externally. Does that make sense?
I also want to know if it's safe to plug in all the devices I mentioned, like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, webcam, and charger, into it.
If everything works well, thanks a lot!
Yes, if you're struggling to get enough power and connectivity for all your devices, a USB hub with wall power can be a good solution and will work well. The data being transferred through the USB isn't excessive, so it shouldn't overload the device. The main bandwidth consumers are your webcam and the Wi-Fi or Bluetooth adapter. Everything else will use minimal data. A single USB 3.0 port should suffice unless your webcam is a high-end model (1080p 60fps or 4K 30fps). For standard USB 2.0 webcams (up to 1080p30), it should be fine. Otherwise, consider using the webcam's dedicated USB port.