If we need to connect network cables, external monitors, memory card reading, power supply, etc., we need to choose a more professional expansion dock to solve the problem; and if we just need more USB ports for external U disks, mobile When it comes to hard disks, printers, mice, keyboards, etc., we need to choose a more specific splitter to achieve the goal, because there are often only 1-2 USB ports in the expansion dock, which is difficult to meet our actual needs.
How to choose a splitter, we need to consider four aspects: the version of the USB interface, the number of interfaces, the materials used for workmanship, and whether it has an external power supply.
1. Look at the USB version
There are many USB versions currently in use, including USB 2.0, USB 3.0, USB 3.1, USB 3.2, USB 4.0, etc. The transfer rates provided by different versions of USB interfaces are different. For example, USB 2.0 only has a bandwidth of 480Mbps. USB 3.0 can provide a maximum transmission rate of 5Gbps, and USB3.1Gen2 can provide a maximum transmission rate of 10Gbps. Currently, USB-A interfaces are basically 3.0-based.
2. Look at the number of interfaces
The number of ports mainly depends on our needs. Common USB splitters on the market include 4 ports, 7 ports, 10 ports, and so on.
Generally speaking, if it is not clear that there is a need for a particularly large number of USB ports, 4 ports are relatively common and practical. Under the premise of ensuring portability, it can basically meet the needs of external mobile storage, mouse and keyboard, and printers.
3. Look at the materials used in the workmanship
A good splitter, the material and workmanship of itself is very important. At present, the splitter materials on the market are mainly ABS or aluminum alloy. They have their own advantages. For example, aluminum alloy is rich in metal texture, heavy, durable and helpful. Heat dissipation, and the splitter made of ABS is not only strong and durable, but also lighter, thinner and more portable than aluminum alloy, and the price will be much cheaper.
At the same time, a good splitter should also pay attention to whether there are safety protection measures, such as overcurrent and overvoltage protection, leakage protection, temperature protection, etc., so that it is safer for computer equipment and external equipment.
4. External power supply
The maximum current that can be transmitted by the USB 3.0 interface is 900mA. If the external mobile hard disk is connected to the mouse, keyboard, printer and other peripherals, it is very likely that the power supply will be insufficient. At this time, it is necessary to provide external power supply to the USB splitter to provide higher power to drive all devices.
