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USB PORTS AND Self Powered HUBS

Jeff W7NEE
Jeff W7NEE Member ✭✭
in SmartSDR for Windows

In reading the "USB Cable Interface Guide" published by Flex it provides a link to a powered HUB that has been successfully used and a nice diagram of how different devices that can be used and communicated with the Flex USB ports on the back of the radio.

I am utilizing these 2 USB ports and would like to split off to add a couple more devices. The provided link by the Flex "USB Cable Interface Guide" at the bottom of page 3. This HUB is no longer available for purchase. So in researching another HUB I have come up with a few questions to pose to the community as well as Michael Walker, Tim Ellison or Ken Wells of Flex Radio.

There are also discussions in the Community stating NOT to use a self powered HUB with these USB Ports supplied in the radio. And then there are post stating that they use the HUBS with success. I am one that will follow manufactures recommendations, however this manual was published in 2019 and I am concerned that there is more current information we need to know regarding the use of HUBS or maybe I have not found it yet?.

  1. What are the actual facts regarding the use of self powered HUBS?
  2. I have also read that others say not to use a 3.0 HUB, however most HUBS are backwards compatible to 2.0. If HUBS are ok to use are backwards compatible HUBS ok??
  3. With the recent upgrade to the 8000 series of radios, If a HUB is ok to use are the 8000 series radios now compatible with a 3.0 HUB's and Devices?

Thanks for any information you can provide!

Jeff Neely-W7NEE

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Comments

  • Mike-VA3MW
    Mike-VA3MW Administrator, FlexRadio Employee, Community Manager, Super Elmer, Moderator admin

    There is very little power on the USB port on the radio. You do need to use a powered Hub.

    We haven't done a lot of testing on this, so if you find a hub that works, use it.

  • Rich M5RIC
    Rich M5RIC Member ✭✭✭

    Have used various different powered hubs, all to success, always 2.0 as no requirement for 3.0.

    Current one has 6 devices off a powered hub to a 6600 and not had a single issue.

    https://amzn.eu/d/865LfcN

    Mike is right, find one that works and stick to it, don't overthink it.

  • Jeff W7NEE
    Jeff W7NEE Member ✭✭

    Thank you Mike and Rich! The classification is much appreciated!

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