what is a hub? It is the question that we will answer today to detail everything related to this important internet connection device and from devices to computers as well as battery chargers for mobile devices. Do not miss this interesting article.
What is a hub?
When we talk about a hub, we describe a device that centralizes all the wiring of a computer network, which is later expanded to be retransmitted to other devices. It is also called a concentrator and today it is one of the devices that presents a very relevant functionality for users and companies
There are various types and models of hubs, which connect from 5 to 15 devices simultaneously. This allows you to provide a great service to these devices that work very easily, even some with better performance than a router or a switch. The latter needs to create communication channels to be able to distribute the signal and limits its activity solely to sending data.
The router, for its part, is in charge of communicating the devices with other distant networks, they have the capacity to interconnect various devices, while the switch and the hub can do it better. Regarding the hub, it is an advanced device that lightens many forms of communication.
What is?
From a technical point of view, the hub allows it to become a transmission center for connections related to a network and a computer. It also shares data and information simultaneously between various devices connected to a single port, so that information can be seen between them.
Likewise, they are used to connect parts of a LAN network through the different ports, thus creating a common network between several devices. However, the hub today has a more common use and is aimed at users who need to keep contact with storage devices, printers, screens, cell phones and memories in one place.
Who needs it?
Concentrators or hubs have a great virtue and that is that they adapt to the needs of users, so that they can access inputs in different ways on different ports, which allows information to be varied from one device to another without distortion or distortion. delay in transmissions.
Let's take as an example the right with which a user has an old generation computer, but needs to connect several ports. You can easily purchase a hub where, with a single input connection to the equipment, you can open various alternatives to access different information.
This is how you can connect flash drives, cell phones, Tablets and cameras simultaneously. The hub in this case becomes a multiport where, depending on the needs of the user, it connects the devices it needs. The important thing is to know that it is a hub and the application of applications that expands the limitation needs of old generation devices.
Likewise, there are some hubs that can even create access through the port to connect televisions and devices that, due to the natural condition of the computer equipment, do not have the availability to connect it. Another functionality of the hub that helps many developers and computer technicians is being able to divide the screen through connections.
By connecting to the USB port, you can purchase a hub that has an output for HDMI connection in case one of the monitors does not have the respective input, so that you can link it through the hub, which will then work as an adapter. Another function that can be adapted is to be able to connect directly to a router or modem.
Many actually use the hub to connect to the internet, which allows a smoother and faster connection speed since the transmission arrives directly to the computer and does not need the transmission problems that traffic sometimes generates when other devices are connected.
If you really need an extra port, analyze your needs and really look for what you are going to use them for. The hub is very useful and today they are available in various shapes and sizes. Large companies have many hub devices to keep their workers connected to various devices that allow them to carry out their operations.
But to really answer the question, these types of devices are needed by ordinary people who daily establish a connection with different types of devices to search for information, process data and carry out various activities, medical professionals, artists and politicians are the most consumers of these devices.
Why buy it?
As we said before, it is important to first know what our technological needs are and what will benefit us in the activity we want to carry out. That is why a series of considerations must be taken into account that allow us to know the type of hub we are going to acquire.
The idea is not to buy without knowing what a hub is. It is vitally important to understand if we need to connect a printer, if we are going to work with the cell phone connected to the PC, and we also need to charge the device, update and verify data that is in external memories and storage devices such as pen drives or memory sticks. type or mini SD.
There are many brands and models of hubs on the market which make it difficult to choose which one is the best. We recommend purchasing the hub that best suits what we really need. It is therefore necessary to analyze the prices for simple consumers who only want to make basic connections that can be in the order of 15 and 20 dollars.
However, for users with a higher technological level and requirements, who must use it to connect various devices, they range between 100 and 400 dollars. They are more sophisticated devices that give the client a greater connection range and can improve their work area depending on the need.
Some people or companies need a hub where they must simultaneously connect computers, TVs, LAN ports, HDMI cables, USB, Printers, SDHC Cards, among other high-tech devices. Therefore they must acquire high performance hub devices.
It is also important to know the compatibility of some devices with respect to the hub we select. We cannot fit a high-performance hub into a small notebook or computer with limited RAM. Logically, the performance can be very poor and the need we are looking for can never be carried out.
Likewise, it is important to take into account the design of the hub, although for many it is not a point that is of importance, it is always good to acquire models in which they are manufactured with insulating materials, where good operability and resistance are generated that are light and durable. easy transfer.
However, the model and the location of the ports is decisive to know the place where the cables will be connected. Always remember to try to get a warranty from the seller. The hubs are devices that are going to have a very high activity, due to this it is recommended to acquire a quality hub, if the use that it is going to give is high, it is recommended that it can have a good guarantee.
most reliable models
Below we will give details regarding the most reliable hub devices, so that we can count on help related to the characteristics of each one. The intention is to seek in a better way to offer the reader the information they need when deciding to purchase a hub.
Xtorm QacQoc Hub
It is a USB-C Power Hub Edge type device, compatible with Windows, MacOS and Nintendo Switch, its size is 115 x 101 x 20 mm and it weighs just 320 grams, which indicates that it is very light. This device comes in various models and we believe that the GN30h model is one of the best.
It is a multifunctional hub with high performance, it has a large number of inputs that attract attention due to its light weight, which allows you to connect various devices. Article Task manager offers processes and tools that lead to a better understanding of each of the processes related to these devices.
The product is manufactured in China and this model can be obtained between 20 and 25 dollars, in online stores it is even offered for 19,99 dollars. However, the GN 30 h model, depending on the needs, can reach 50 dollars. The models are varied and according to the characteristics of the device.
With regard to memory, the price varies depending on its capacity. For example, the model in question comes with a RAM memory capacity of 16 to 32 Gb. This also allows good functionality if you handle high work levels and need to connect various devices.
Features
The ports in the GN30H model offer a total of up to eight input ports distributed as follows:
- Three ports for USB 3.0
- One USB Type-C port
- One port for HDMI connection
- LAN port
- SDHC input
- micro SDHC input port
As we can see, this model does not have an input for SD mini SD type memories. It is a very easy device to use, the posts are distributed in such a way that you can give input depending on the type of connection.
Each of the ports works simultaneously and no traffic or connection interruption is created due to operation. For example, a cell phone is connected and at the same time a flash drive regardless of the interruption in any of the devices. The transmission speed is 6 Gbps, it represents an advantage compared to traditional pen drive connections.
It is important because access speeds up the operations and search for files on each of the storage devices. For its part, the USB type C input port is used to charge any mobile and also to take current to other devices.
Power and internet connection
The supply voltage is between 14,5 V and 20 V, which allows smooth power input without interruption unless there is an untimely power outage. Regarding the LAN port in the configuration it appears with the name of RJ45. It allows you to connect an Ethernet type cable and link to a router or telephone in order to establish a connection to the internet network.
Connection to PC and TV
The port input also allows access to the PC or TV without having to connect the equipment to the TV. so you can see the content of the computer on the screen, offering a way to show your team's processes in high definition. The HDMI output is 4k, that is, high definition images are obtained.
The SDHC card slot allows you to access photos and videos from the camera in a simple way, the only detail is to specify the type of card you want to apply. So far no problems have been found with other cards for this input port.
OS Compatibility
This type of hub connects to the computer through a USB Type C cable, it is compatible for Mac computers and any other computer designed from the year 2000 onwards. It is also adaptable to Windows operating systems and Mac OS X 7 onwards.
On the other hand, the USB 3.0 ports are faster than the 2.0 configurations, even admitting USB 1.1 models, which are the first USB cable and pen drive models that came onto the market.
This device is compatible with SD, SDHC, SDXC, Micro SD and MMC type cards, up to a capacity of 2Tb, from then on there are no means of connection. The equipment has a small blue LED which indicates that the device has been connected correctly.
Power Hub Edge
Manufactured by Xtorm, it is a hub with a USB input and the models were specifically based on the manufacture of Power Banks (portable chargers), the designs are very innovative, allowing batteries and Tablets to be charged simultaneously and several times. It is less limited than other similar devices. This type of hub is one of the most recommended, which presents impressive and very beautiful models.
Rental income
The company considers it within its policy to develop high-quality products, so you will not get devices manufactured by Xtorm very cheaply. It always maintains profitability based on prices. They are teams we highly recommend with your eyes closed.
The average price ranges between 60 and 100 dollars depending on the model and functionality. They can be purchased at any online store where they offer a guarantee ranging from 6 months to 1 year.
Inputs and outputs
The Power Hub Edge has a difference in relation to other equipment and related to the number of USB ports it offers. So it only accepts charges on type A and C inputs. The company considers that a number of ports connected at the same time reduces reliability and efficiency in the charging processes. They focus on keeping fewer devices charged faster and more efficiently. The devices have the following inputs:
- 2 USB ports Quick Charge 3.0 90W
- 1 input for USB-C PD 60W
- 1 USB-C PD 30W input port
As we know, its use is very simple, when you connect the current through the charger you access the power, the detail is that they must be plugged in directly so that the load can be processed. The device has a small LED indicating that it is in contact and connection with the devices.
Compatibility
After the connected devices, these four ports allow immediate and safe charging without the need to reduce the capacity of the devices at any time. This is one of the great advantages of this device, which is why it is recommended for Apple portable equipment such as IPhone and IPod.
However, it works very well on other laptops that have this type of port included. Likewise, you can connect any headset, speaker, drone, GPS or Nintendo, supplying a USB type A or C cable. Which offers a variant in the use of this hub.
Design
The models of the Xtorm company are very advanced and offer a variety that impresses the eye. They are made taking into account influences of modern and technological design. The materials are very light and resistant, allowing to give an important presence and reliability.
This makes Xtorm designs and models a consumer favourite. The average size ranges between 115 x 100 s 25 cm and they do not weigh more than 300 grams.
In any case, it is a device designed to be left at home or in the office, so its lightness should not be your priority either. On the other hand, we believe that this brand includes a support of different colors in the models and shapes so that you can place it vertically.
XC005
Also manufactured by the company Xtorm, it is a USB-C HUB 5-IN-ONE model, and as we said at the beginning, this company is also responsible for manufacturing batteries and high-tech wireless chargers. With a quality that is directly related to its prices.
The XC005 model has a somewhat high market price, so to speak, but it is also one of the best. It offers great benefits to users and especially those who want and need to have several ports connected.
Features
The device is one of the most expensive on the market, however devices for users who do not need as much functionality can be obtained in different online stores. Prices can range between 50 and 60 dollars, depending on the model. These come in the variants of the Xtorm USB-C HUB 5-in-one which is a slightly more expensive model.
Some Xtorm branded hubs can be purchased through direct purchase on their own page where they can be had for up to $75. The models vary according to the needs of the client where the price also increases or decreases according to the characteristics of each one.
The transmission speed is in the order of 5 Mbps, which represents exceptional speed compared to other transmissions from devices of another brand.
Inputs and outputs
Xtorm equipment has a wide variety of inputs ranging from four to six ports. Not counting the main USB Type C connection cable. Therefore, the inputs are as follows:
- One input 1 USB 3.0
- Standard HDMI port
- One input for Ethernet cable
- SD memory input port
- Micro SD memory input
Compared with the model of the Chinese brand CN30H, we observe certain differences, since as we see it has more ports and its price is higher. This allows you to charge your device and use the USB or SD memory whenever you want.
The type C cable gives you an advantage if you have a computer that charges via only one type of USB input. It is important to consider the entrance as an element that does not allow the entrance of another hub. The Model XC005 is also compatible for Ethernet connection through its LAN input, in case the laptop or computer does not have said port.
Another important aspect is the power it has to connect to the Internet through that connection with the capacity to transmit from 100 Mbps to even 1000 MBPS, this when you need to establish a direct network.
With this, the transmission problems offered by the Wi-Fi wireless connection are eliminated, where the traffic sometimes limits the speed, and therefore delays some processes. With this device you gain significant time.
Likewise, the projection of the computer screen on another monitor is done with total ease. Through the connection of the hub to the computer and then pass it to another screen through the HDMI cable.
Compatibility
This model, like the previous ones, is compatible with the Windows and Mac OS X operating systems. Compatibility is made through the USB Type C port input, easy connections and interfaces are allowed. These hubs are also compatible with other devices such as latest generation tablets and smartphones, manufactured by companies such as Apple, Hyundai, Samsung, among others.
A small disadvantage is that there are no LED or other signs to indicate the level of the connection. This detail has escaped the designers, but it does not detract from reliability and trust in users.
Design
Like any other device of this era, the XC005 comes in attractive models and very nice port placement. Alternative and circular designs are appreciated that make it quite conceptual and adaptable to any space. Some are made of aluminum to seek performance based on weight.
It then gives them a very solid structure where transport can cause blows which they strongly resist. Its size is 128 x 43 x 15 mm and it weighs no more than 70 grams.
As we can see, we have, according to our criteria, the three most important hub devices, however, and over the years they will become old models. We know that this technology is innovating day by day and creating superior models where efficiency and specifications change little by little.
Other models
The hubs with USB access are very useful for any user who needs to work with digital and network technology on a daily basis. The connection of devices allows them to access important tools where alternatives are sought to process work and carry out activities more efficiently and quickly. Below we are going to describe some hubs that can help you if you are not satisfied with the recommendations given in the previous paragraphs.
Sabrent USB 3.0 Hub
It is a type of device with 4 ports and switches aligned through switches that each contain their connection indication through a led. It also contains an output port, transmission speed of up to 5Gbps for the USB 3.0 port, 480 Mbps for the USB 2.0 port and 12Mbps for the USB 1.1
AUKEY
It is a USB 3.0 Hub, which contains 4 Data Ports, made of Aluminum, it is specific and aimed at users of Apple Macbook Air, Mac Pro/Mini, Microsoft Surface Pro, DELL XPS 15. It has support for wireless devices and MIDI of 2.4 GHz maintains a data transfer rate of up to 5 Gbps, fast enough to transfer an HD movie in seconds.
It is a very elegant device with an innovative design which attracts the attention of the public, it is available on the various online sales platforms and the prices vary according to the models that between one and the other there is not much difference.
TSUPY
It is a USB 3.0 device with 1,2 m cable, 3 Ports of 5 Gbps and SD/TF Card reader, it also contains a USB 3.0 Adapter for PC, Laptop, Macbook, PS4, Xbox and USB Flash Drives, one of its most important advantages is the extension of its cable that reaches 1,2 m. This allows you to organize the cables in another place without the need to be near the computer or devices.
It comes with an SD/TF card reader which supports data transfer up to 5 Gbps. It is ideal for customers who use camera and SD/TF card. Ideal for Nikon, Canon, Sony camera brand card support such as SD, Micro SD, TF, SDXC, SDHC,Microsdxc, Micro SDHC card.
Differences between a hub and switch:
We already know that it is a hub, therefore we will learn about its general characteristics and various functions later. However, some people still wonder what the differences are between a Switch and a hub. To have a reference, we can indicate that a hub cannot be connected to as many devices as are connected to a switch.
If it is done immediately, it will collapse and various types of problems will arise, such as transmission delay and even total stoppage of operation. A switch is considered an intelligent device, they are capable of creating connection VLANs, performing procedures to add links, creating complex networks among other alternatives.
So some wonder, if switches are so efficient, why are hubs sold in the market? o What is the reason for its manufacture? First, the switches were created to carry out more defined and complicated actions and processes, which allowed establishing the advance for the development of more functional devices according to the needs and capacity required.
On the other hand, the hubs, as we have seen, are developed for people who do not require much knowledge of development and networks. With the switches, the aim is to increase speeds and efficiencies in certain processes, even determining the creation of alternatives to speed up some forms of communication through the r4des.
Both have more or less the same creation time and even the hubs were the first to be used by developers, however and over time higher transmission speeds were needed, so it was preferred to carry out updates that led to the switch to another technology.
Then the switches begin to be used in a totally different way than the hubs. The switches allow technicians to manage the possibility of more advanced configurations and carry out more advanced computing processes.
The growth of network technology has been thanks to the development of these devices, likewise everything has been thanks to the way in which certain technologies have been developing, where little by little the growth in the processes and the evolution in various commercial areas and commercial, they need to increase the processes to make them more efficient.
We invite you in this aspect to know the General systems theory where it is sought in some way to carry out processes related to networks and their conformation. However, hubs provide a very efficient service to users, are sold in huge quantities and are an alternative for many people.
Technicalities
When the hub receives data from various connected devices, internal collisions occur, since the device itself acts within a special layer called OSI, then sends the transmitted data to the different ports. So when we have more hubs connected to the network we are receiving more traffic and therefore the collision grows much more.
This may cause some data to be lost, so it doesn't go anywhere. However, switches are OSI layer 2 and 3 devices. Contains segments of collision domains. They are called CAM (Content Addressable Memory), they allow to store information of the different MAC addresses, which at the moment are connected in the different ports.
In this way, each one is associated with the connection of VLAN parameters, this prevents collisions between the devices from occurring and the data transfer is complete. The switch allows to have multiple collision domains as connected equipment. This allows you to set what is a network hub
Algorithms
When we use a hub, it is important to carry out a shared medium access protocol CSMA/CD, called in its acronym in English as «Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Detection», it is a special algorithm for Ethernet-type networks, it allows to improve performance in each of the connected devices.
The CSMA algorithm is based on procedures that developers apply in various ways, let's see:
- Persistent CSMA, happens when a device wants to transmit and first listens if there is any type of data transmission and if it is free. If it does not receive any type of signal, it waits until the channel is free and proceeds to transmit the data.
- Non-persistent CSMA is an algorithmic operation somewhat similar to the previous procedure, however it works as follows: When you want to transmit, the different algorithm proceeds to listen to see if there is any data transmission, if there is not, it does not transmit it, without However, if there is someone transmitting, they do not listen and disconnect immediately, then try again after a reasonable time.
- CSMA p-persistent, is a process very similar to the previous ones, the algorithm listens to check if there is any transmission. However, when observing the free channel, it transmits with a probability delayed in the emission to a time slot which can be equal to the maximum delay of the signal propagation.
The processes are different when the algorithm exists, this allows then to modify some basic characteristics of the hub. They then grant notable differences with the first manufactured equipment and also in their relationship with the Switch.
Security
When hubs are used there may be some type of security breach due to the nature of Ethernet. The "Broadcast" transmission protocol and the use of "Hubs" in the local LAN network can cause problems that lead to information piracy.
This happens because the hubs send information to different devices, so a form of protection for them must be when they are used for networking. The security alternatives presented are detailed in the specifications of each device.
Do not stop using the procedures intended to create data locks and abnormal entries, use the password and if possible change it eventually to avoid fraud. Today hackers have a very high level of exploration. know in the following article how How to advertise on the Internet? to avoid being lured by these hackers.
Generalities
These devices are designed with the same technology with which routers and switches are manufactured, however, as we have seen, they have specifications and designs that are intended to perform different computing functions, the hub then has the following characteristics:
- They manage shared resources towards the teams of various clients or internal.
- Concentrate workstations in one place
- Some have RJ45 type ports that allow the integration of various memories.
- Set signal repeats compatible with most network operating systems.
- They are necessary to create star-style networks that consist of connecting computers to a single device.
- Hubs used for LANN cannot process layer 1 or layer 2 traffic. That is, if algorithm protocols are not introduced, collision problems will occur.
- They connect to each other and in turn connect to other Hubs.
- They work in the so-called Half Duplex mode, that is, a device connected to another hub where simultaneous data is sent and received.
- When there is a collision, the hub rejects data from all devices and signals them to send data again.
- Hubs do not process data based on unicast and broadcast type connections.
- They work in multiprocesses, thanks to the RAM memory it contains.
- They serve to charge equipment as well as maintain stable internet connections.
Hub types
We already know what a hub is, we also know the most used models for basic users, we have also known how they are even used to create network functions in different alternatives, but the hubs are made of different types.
Being multiport repeaters allow them to be versatile devices, however there are also conventional ones which have up to two ports. Today most hubs have four or even six ports.
They are also suitable for 10BASE-T or 100BASE-T type Ethernet networks, which are network architectures known only to developers. For the common user, it is not of interest to know in depth what they are used for or what function these architectures fulfill.
However, we can say without any arrogance that they serve to develop various alternative processes that help connect daily to the Internet network, as well as carry out the development of internal networks that streamline processes in various organizations. But let's look at the three types of hub:
Liabilities
It is the type of device that serves only as a connection point for physically connected equipment. No type of traffic or transmission is observed on it. It also does not amplify or clean any signal: the passive hub is only used to share data to physical media. Actually this type of hub does not need electrical power.
Active
This type of hub must be plugged into a power outlet as it needs enough power to boost the signal coming through the ports. So you have to extend it to be able to bring it to the other devices.
Communication
These types of hub are called "Smart hubs". They work like active hubs, but contain a microprocessor-type chip that has the ability to perform diagnostics. Smart hubs are more but they are very useful in diagnosing faults.
All types of hub receive information and data traffic, transport information through the various connected devices. This is when collisions occur, already seen in this article, and they are also the part where technicians look for solutions to network problems related to slow transmissions.
With this article we wanted to inform everything related to what is a hub? Hopefully you can take advantage of it and try to learn more about these devices, eventually look for information related to this technology, there are always updates that change the performance of each of these interesting devices.