USB C
The number of USB Type C ports for connecting peripherals provided in the design of the hub (or card reader with the hub function — see "Type").
The port itself is small — only slightly larger than microUSB — and has a reversible design, thanks to which the plug can be inserted in either direction. That is why he has exacted respect and is actively replacing the classic USB port.
Despite its small size, USB Type C is used both in portable technology and in desktop PCs and peripherals for them. However, there are still few such devices available; because of this, hubs usually provide
1 USB-C port or
2 type C inputs.
USB-C version
The USB connector interface (version) primarily characterizes the speed.
- 2.0. The outdated version 2.0 provides data transfer rates up to 480 Mbps. Found only in USB A ports.
— 3.2 gen1. Previous standard names are 3.1 gen1 and 3.0. This version provides up to 10 times the maximum speed (4.8Gbps) as well as higher power capacity, which allows you to connect power-hungry devices and large splitters.
- 3.2 gen2. Further improvement of the 3.2 gen1 standard (and, as is customary, the previous name more than once renamed 3.1 gen1 and simply 3.1), which made it possible to achieve a maximum speed of 10 Gbps and even higher power for external devices.
However, the final speed depends not so much on the input connector, but on the USB version of the hub (card reader) connection to the PC.
Power Delivery
The technology allows you to work at higher voltage, thereby increasing the transmitted power.
USB hubs with Power Dlivery can not only charge smartphones faster, but also power more power-hungry devices, such as laptops.
USB cable compartment
A special compartment on the case of the card reader or hub (see "Type"), in which the USB cable is placed during non-working hours. Such models are compact and easy to transport due to the fact that the wire, which tends to get confused and interfere, is hidden inside the device. For objective reasons, only devices with an external connection can have
a cable compartment(see "Intended use").
Cable length
The length of the cable supplied with the device. Mostly relevant for models with a non-removable cable that cannot be replaced.
Material
The main material used for the body of the device.
— Plastic. Plastic is light, cheap, quite practical, incl. has good strength properties. In addition, it allows you to create cases of complex shape and almost any color.
—
Metal. As a rule, aluminium-based alloys are used for metal cases. Such cases are much stronger than plastic ones, and also have a stylish appearance. On the other hand, in terms of impact protection, this material has no advantages over plastic, but it costs more, and it can weigh much more.