Computer Add-Ons Offer Opportunity In Flat PC Market

Staff On Nov 5 2001 - 8:00am

Tripp Lite is introducing a small, but powerful addition to its connectivity line called the 4-port Ultra-Mini USB Hub, U202-004-R. It is designed for mobile notebook computer users who find storage space is a precious commodity.

Weighing just over 1 ounce, and the size of a ½-inch stack of credit cards, the Ultra-Mini USB Hub is full-featured and entirely self-contained. It allows up to four USB-enabled devices to be connected to a single PC or notebook computer. Multiple hubs can also be daisy-chained together to link even more devices.

The hub, which includes a PC connection cable that is hardwired into the hub and folds into a small integrated storage cabinet inside its housing, eliminates the risk of a lost or forgeotten cable and saves the clutter of a connector.

In addition, the hub can be powered by the PC, in most cases, eliminating an additional connection cable. A compact AC adapter, up to two thirds smaller than traditional transformer blocks, is included for heavier-draw applications.

Installation of and use of the Ultra-Mini USB Hub is industry standard plug and play. There is no software or setup procedures required. The hub is also hot-pluggable, so that it may be connected or disconnected from the PC at any time, regardless of whether the host computer is powered on or off.

Suggested retail is $59.99.