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USB 3.0 7-Port Hub with 2 BC 1.2 Charging Ports and 36W Power Adapter
$39.95 USD
SKU: USB3-HUB7CAmazon Rating : (1280 Reviews)
Features
- Expanded Connectivity—Add up to seven USB 3.0, 2.0, or 1.1 devices to any USB 2.0 or 3.0 capable computer. Fully plug and play, devices can be hot-swapped, supports USB over-current protection. Includes 36W UL Listed US AC Wall Plug, 100-240V 50/60Hz
- Universal Compatibility—Compatible with most Windows, macOS, and Linux systems. On legacy systems, the latest drivers and updates should be installed to ensure compatibility.
- Smart Design—Designed based on customer feature requests: Matte finish, rear-facing physical power button, and per-port status LEDs
- Recommended Use—Some devices such as the Apple SuperDrive look for Apple-specific signaling and will not work when connected through any USB hub. Not recommended for use with USB 3.0 PCI-e add-on cards for older Mac Pro systems
- 2-Year Coverage, Lifetime Support—Every Plugable product, including this USB hub, is covered against defects for 2 years and comes with lifetime support. If you ever have questions, contact our North American-based team - even before purchase
Free 3-Day Shipping When Buying Direct!
All Buying Options
![Lifestyle image of the USB3-HUB7C](http://plugable.com/cdn/shop/files/in_use-max_3016b38c-2525-4217-b332-252cc9bfe28d.jpg?v=1663974695&width=4000)
7-Port USB 3.0 Hub With Two Powerful 1.5A Charging Port
The Plugable 7-Port USB 3.0 Hub with 36W Power Adapter (USB3-HUB7C) expands USB connectivity by enabling up to seven USB 3.0, 2.0 and 1.1 devices to be added to any USB 3.0 or 2.0 capable desktop, laptop, or tablet computer. Supporting standard USB 3.0 transfer rates up to 5Gbps (640MBps) to allow data to move quickly between devices, ideal for high-throughput devices such as USB external hard drives, flash drives, and USB graphics adapters.
In addition to the higher-wattage power adapter, this 7-port hub also includes 2 features our customers have repeatedly requested most USB 3.0 hubs don't offer: A fingerprint-resistant matte finish, and a physical on/off power switch to control power to the hub.
![Lifestyle image of the USB3-HUB7C](http://plugable.com/cdn/shop/files/main-max_b537f282-ebb6-4bcd-b4ab-b9264e6262b7.jpg?crop=center&height=576&v=1663969030&width=576)
7 Ports of Connectivity
On average, most computers have 3 USB ports. With so many devices we depend on daily, that's just not enough. All seven ports are lined up front-and-center for easy access, with the power connection and host USB cable facing rearward to reduce cable clutter.Per-port LED status lights on the top of the hub indicate a successful connection between the device and the host computer.
![Photo of devices plugged into the USB3-HUB7C](http://plugable.com/cdn/shop/files/connected_devices-max.jpg?crop=center&height=576&v=1663969155&width=576)
Data Sync and USB Charging
In addition to standard data transfer and sync, this hub expands on the capabilities of regular USB 3.0 hubs, providing extra power on each edge port (ports 1 and 7). It's a no-compromise solution for gaining extra USB ports and providing power to mobile devices.Standard USB 3.0 ports only provide 900mA for connected devices. The two edge ports are great for power-hungry devices, providing up to 1.5A with special charging signals that enable supporting devices to charge at a much faster rate.
![Lifestyle image of the USB3-HUB7C](http://plugable.com/cdn/shop/files/main-max_b537f282-ebb6-4bcd-b4ab-b9264e6262b7.jpg?crop=center&height=768&v=1663969030&width=768)
Modern Controller
Featuring the VIA VL813 USB 3.0 hub chipset updated to firmware version 9015 for maximum compatibility with almost all USB 3.0 hosts. It allows for full forward and backward compatibility between USB 3.0, 2.0, and 1.1 hosts and devices.
The VIA Labs VL813 USB 3.0 hub chipset is a 4th generation solution which emphasizes high performance and high power efficiency.
![Logo for USB 3.0 SuperSpeed 5Gbps](http://plugable.com/cdn/shop/files/3-max_ffb542f0-7c52-407b-9e48-85cc93f73507.jpg?crop=center&height=768&v=1663890486&width=768)
Installation and Compatibility
The hub itself requires no driver installation, but attached devices may require drivers. Supports Microsoft Windows 11 through XP, macOS, and Linux kernels 3.0 and later.
Installing latest USB 3.0 xHCI host controller drivers is recommended. This hub is not recommended for use with older Texas Instruments, Fresco Logic, Etron, or Wistron USB 3.0 host controllers.
Older Mac Pros with USB 3.0 PCI Express add-on cards may not work with this or any USB 3.0 hub.The Apple SuperDrive is not compatible with this or any other USB hub (see Apple HT201788).
2.4Ghz wireless devices such as keyboard/mouse receivers, Bluetooth and WiFi adapters, may not work in close proximity to USB 3.0 devices or hubs.
![Photo of the USB3-HUB7C and everything included in the packaging.](http://plugable.com/cdn/shop/files/packaging-max_12015bea-91da-4383-87dc-7757febd5817.jpg?crop=center&height=768&v=1663969267&width=768)
In The Box
- USB Hub
- Power Supply
- USB Cable
- Quick Start Guide
Specifications
USB Version | 3.0 |
Chipset | VIA VL813 |
Power Adapter | UL Certified 100-240V at 50/60Hz AC Input 12V 3A (36W) DC Output |
USB Cable | 3ft (1m) USB 3.0 Type-A to Type-B |
Power Cable | 5ft (1.5m) permanently-attached DC barrel jack |
UL Listing | File Number E303985 |
In The Box
Item and Quantity | Item Notes |
---|---|
1x Plugable USB 3.0 7-port Hub with 2 BC1.2 charging ports (USB3-HUB7C) | |
1x 36W Power Adapter | |
1x USB-A to USB-B Cable | |
1x Quick Start Guide |
Included Cables
Port Type (Side 1) | Cable Specification | Port Type (Side 2) | Cable Length | External Power for Cable |
---|---|---|---|---|
Male USB-B (3.0) | USB 3.0 (5Gbps) | USB-A | 1.0m/3.28ft | No |
Power
Port | Placement | Power Host / Device | Connection Type | Notes | Voltage | Amperage | Wattage |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Power Supply | Rear | Device | Region-specific Power Adapter | Check Compatibility Table | 12.0V | 3.0A | 36.0W |
USB To Devices
Port | Placement | Version and Link Rate | Features | Voltage | Amperage | Wattage |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
5x USB-A | Front | USB 3.0 (5Gbps) | 5V | 900mA | 4.5W | |
2x USB-A | Front | USB 3.0 (5Gbps) | Battery Charging 1.2 | 5V | 1500mA | 7.5W |
Connection To Host
Port | Placement | Version and Link Rate | Features |
---|---|---|---|
1x USB-A | Rear | USB 3.0 (5Gbps) |
Physical Stats
Item | Size (H x W x D) or Length | Weight | SKU or Part Number |
---|---|---|---|
USB 3.0 7-Port Hub | 2.2 x 15.44 x 5 centimeters 0.9 x 6.1 x 2 inches |
105 grams 3.7 ounces |
USB3-HUB7C |
Get Started
- Insert the power adapter into the hub and a wall outlet.
- Insert USB cable into the hub and your PC.
- The hub will be installed automatically; verify by attaching a device to the hub.
Questions? We're here to help! Please reach out to us at support@plugable.com
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USB Port Types
USB-A
pietz, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
This is the standard USB connection that most computers offered prior to the introduction of USB Type-C (USB-C). Even after the introduction of USB Type-C, this is still quite common.
It can provide data transfer rates up to the USB 3.1 Gen 2 (10 gbps) specification depending on the host and device, but does not directly support video in the way that USB-C Alternate Mode does. This limitation makes DisplayLink USB graphics adapters and docking stations ideal on systems that do not have USB-C, or in instances where more displays are needed beyond available video outputs of a PC.
USB-B
Fred the Oyster, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
IngenieroLoco, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
This type of connection comes in a couple different styles depending on whether USB 3.0 and higher transfer rates are supported (bottom graphic). Usually this type of connection is used to plug into USB devices that do not have a fixed cable connected, such as USB docking stations, USB hubs, printers, and others.
USB Mini-B
Fred the Oyster, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
One of the first connectors for charging a smartphone, wireless game controller (such as the Sixaxis and DualShock 3), and other small devices such as external hard drives. Not commonly used today, but is still used in some cases. Most devices using USB Mini B are using USB 2.0, though a USB 3.0 variant does exist. This specification also added USB On-The-Go (OTG) functionality, though it is more commonly implemented with Micro USB.
USB Micro-B
Fred the Oyster, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
IngenieroLoco, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
A smaller connector that serves many of the same uses as the Mini B connector, with added optional features such as Mobile High-Definition Link (MHL) to allow devices like smartphones to output video to larger displays without requiring a dedicated port for video output.
The larger variant of USB-B is most commonly used for external hard drives for higher 5Gbps transfer rates.
USB-C, Thunderbolt™ 3, and Thunderbolt™ 4
Niridya , CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
The most recent USB connection, USB Type-C (USB-C), represents a major change in what USB can do. The connector is smaller, can be connected in two orientations, is able to carry substantially more power and data, and can directly carry video signals of multiple types (HDMI, DisplayPort, etc.) Intel has also adapted the USB-C connector for use with Thunderbolt 3 and Thunderbolt 4.
It is important to note that while all Thunderbolt 3 and Thunderbolt 4 connections are USB-C, not all USB-C connections can be used with Thunderbolt 3 or Thunderbolt 4 devices.
More details regarding physical USB connections can be found on Wikipedia . The graphics depicted here are adapted from Wikimedia Commons by various artists under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license.
Self-Powered vs Bus-Powered USB Devices
While all USB ports provide some amount of power for attached devices, the available power may not be enough for certain high-current devices such as USB hubs or external hard drives. High-current devices usually come with their own power adapter, making them self-powered, in contrast to a bus-powered device that draws all of its power from the host computer's USB interface. Bus-powered devices can cause issues if they need more power than is available from the host machine.
Many of our devices that include power adapters, especially USB hubs, will function in either self-powered or bus-powered mode. However, even though the device may function, each additional device attached to the host computer reduces the total available bus power. If the power runs out, any USB device attached to the computer may suddenly disconnect. If this were to happen to a USB storage device, such an event could result in permanent data loss.
If a device comes with a power adapter, we recommend that the adapter stay connected at all times, otherwise the device may not function as designed.
Self-powered USB device - A device that takes all of its power from an external power supply
Bus-powered USB device - A device that takes all of its power from the host computer's USB interface.
Will the HUB7C support USB Fast Charging?
When used with Battery Charging 1.2 (BC 1.2) Standard compliant devices, ports 1 and 7 are able to fast charge devices at over 3x the normal USB rate (1.5 Amps vs 0.9 Amps) without a computer attached. Actual charging rates are device-dependent and will vary by device, so check the charging rate chart below for information on your specific device.
When used with non-BC 1.2 Standard compliant devices, or when a host PC is attached, ports 1, 7, and all other ports function as a standard USB hub. In this mode, devices will behave as they would when connected directly to a PC, and may or may not charge. For example, older Apple devices with a 30-pin connector are *not* BC 1.2 Standard compliant, and will only charge when the devices are powered off.
Is this hub a good match for my Raspberry Pi?
Because the Raspberry Pi is a USB 2.0 device and can’t take advantage of USB 3.0 functionality as well as mixed results from users, we do not recommend this hub for use with the Raspberry Pi. The hub we do recommend is our 7 port USB 2.0 hub.
What do the blue LED lights indicate?
There is a blue led for each of the downstream USB ports on the hub. The LEDs turn on when a USB device is connected and recognized by the operating system. These lights may turn off even though a device is connected when the host computer operating system puts the device to sleep to conserve power. There is no master light to indicate the hub is receiving power.
Why does my wireless mouse or keyboard appear sluggish or not work properly when used with the hub?
Most USB receivers for wireless mice and keyboards operate in the 2.4Ghz band. When connecting the receiver to any USB 3.0 port there is potential for interference that can affect the devices performance. The most effective method is to add a short USB 2.0 extension cable between the hub and the receiver to mitigate the effect, and many wireless keyboards and mice come with such a cable for this reason.
My External hard drives disconnect randomly or when I sleep/wake my Mac causing an improper drive eject error message.
Hard Drive Updates:
- Check for and update external hard drive firmware if available.
- For Intel based Macs, perform an SMC and PRAM/NVRAM reset SMC.:
- Perform an SMC reset: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201295
- Perform an NVRAM/PRAM reset: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT204063
- Disable Power Nap on Mac (in power settings, disable for when connected to AC power and battery if the customer uses the hub while also on battery power).
- If possible, test the USB hub and hard drives with a Windows PC to see if the issue persists there as well.
If this issue persists, if possible we have a tool that automates collecting a set of log files from your system. You can download the PlugDebug tool and learn how to use it by clicking on this link:
Ensure that you have the USB Hub connected to the computer when the PlugDebug application is run. Then send us a copy of the log files to Support@Plugable.com
Some or all of the USB ports are not working on my Hub.
If your USB Hub is having issues with some USB ports not connecting to the host computer, there are a few steps that you should try to resolve this issue.
Full power cycle reset:
- Disconnect the power supply, USB Host cable, and all devices from the USB Hub.
- Leave the USB Hub disconnected for 30-60 seconds.
- Reconnect the USB Hub’s power first.
- Connect the USB into the host, then plug USB devices back into the hub.
If this issue persists, if possible we have a tool that automates collecting a set of log files from your system. You can go here download the PlugDebug tool and learn how to use it.
Ensure that you have the USB Hub connected to the computer when the PlugDebug application is run. Then send us a copy of the log files to support@plugable.com
Do Plugable products support the Apple SuperDrive?
Unfortunately Plugable products do not support the Apple SuperDrive.
The Apple SuperDrive has stringent power requirements that can only be met by directly connecting the SuperDrive to your host laptop. As a result at this time Apple recommends only using their USB-C adapter cables. You can find more information on that here → How to connect the Apple USB SuperDrive
If you have purchased a Plugable product to use with your Apple SuperDrive, and would like some additional assistance please do not hesitate to reach out. You can do so by emailing support@plugable.com, or going to Plugable.com/Support.
Understanding Heat Generation in Electronics
It's not uncommon for users to notice a certain level of heat generation from electronics and by extension, Plugable products during operation. In this knowledge base article, we'll explore the reasons behind this heat generation and why it is considered a normal experience within reasonable limits.
Electronics, by their nature, generate heat during operation. This is primarily a result of the electrical current flowing through various components, such as integrated circuits, transistors, and other electronic elements. As Plugable products are designed to efficiently process and transfer data (among other functionality), some level of heat generation is inherent.
Factors Influencing Heat Generation:
- Power Consumption: The power consumption of a device directly influences the amount of heat it generates. Higher power usage, especially during data transfer or charging processes, can lead to increased heat.
- Enclosure Design: The design of the product's enclosure and its ability to dissipate heat play a crucial role. Adequate ventilation and heat sinks are often incorporated to manage and disperse generated heat effectively. This is evident in our TBT3-UDZ and TBT4-UDZ designs. The metal case in these docks are designed to function as a heatsink with thermal pads placed throughout the enclosure. This allows heat dissipation from inside to the outside, but will also make it feel as if the device is “too hot”.
- Ambient Temperature: The external environment may also play a role. Higher ambient temperatures can contribute to increased perceived heat from the product. This means that summer temperatures may increase the heat generation of not just Plugable products, but many other electronic devices.
Normal Heat Levels: While it is normal for electronic devices to generate heat, Plugable products are engineered to operate within safe temperature ranges. We conduct rigorous testing to ensure that the heat generated during normal operation falls within industry-standard safety parameters. While not all products are or need to be UL certified, we try to go by UL guidelines for thermal readings. The UL threshold is 77C/170.6F, and we aim for around 71C/160F.
Tips for Users:
- Ventilation: Ensure that Plugable products have sufficient ventilation around them. Avoid placing them in enclosed spaces where heat dissipation may be impeded.
- Usage Patterns: Intensive tasks such as high-speed data transfer or charging multiple devices simultaneously may result in increased heat generation. This is generally normal but may be more noticeable in such scenarios.
- Accessories: A number of our devices will allow for the connection of USB accessories and as such, these will require power. If too many “power-hungry” devices are connected, this will cause the device to run much hotter than expected. Be sure to keep in mind the power limits of your dock/device.
In conclusion, experiencing heat from Plugable products is a normal aspect of their operation. Users can rest assured that we prioritize the safety and efficiency of our devices. By understanding the factors influencing heat generation and following simple usage guidelines, users can make the most of their Plugable products while ensuring a reliable and efficient user experience.
How to Use Two External Displays with the Lid Closed on MacBook Air and MacBook Pro M3
Overview
With the release of Apple’s M3 CPU chips and the Sonoma 14.6 update your base MacBook Air and MacBook Pro systems with M3 chips can now host two external displays natively in clamshell mode. This guide will walk you through the process of setting up and using two external displays with the lid closed on your MacBook Air or MacBook Pro equipped with an Apple M3 chip.
Requirements
Before getting started, ensure you have the following:
- MacBook Air or MacBook Pro with an Apple M3 chip.
- macOS Sonoma 14.3 or later for an M3 MacBook Air or macOS Sonoma 14.6 or later for an M3 MacBook Pro.
- Two external displays with compatible video inputs (e.g., HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C).
- A dock or graphics adapter can be used as well.
- External keyboard and mouse (wired or wireless).
- Power adapter or power source for your MacBook
- A docking station that provides adequate charge can be used in place of the native power adapter, be sure to check the wattage your dock provides.
Steps to Set Up Dual External Displays with the Lid Closed
1. Set Up Your External Keyboard and Mouse
- If you’re using a wired keyboard and mouse, connect them directly to your MacBook or Plugable dock.
- For wireless peripherals, ensure they are paired with your MacBook and functioning properly.
- An AC adapter/power cable of some kind will also need to be connected for clamshell mode to function properly. This adapter can be one from a docking station or the included Apple adapter.
2. Connect Your Displays
- Connect the first external display to your MacBook using the appropriate cable (e.g., HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C)
- Close your laptop’s lid.
- Connect the second external display using a similar method.
- Ensure both displays are powered on and set to the correct input source.
3. Configure Display Settings
- Open System Settings on your MacBook.
- Go to Displays.
- You should see both external displays listed. Arrange them according to your preference by dragging the display icons.
- Adjust the resolution, refresh rate, and other settings as needed.
4. Enable "Clamshell Mode" (Lid Closed Mode)
- With your external displays connected and set up, close the lid of your MacBook.
- Your MacBook will automatically switch to "Clamshell Mode," where the internal display turns off, and the external displays become your primary screens.
- Ensure your MacBook is connected to a power source to prevent it from entering sleep mode.
5. Check the Display Arrangement
- With the lid closed, check that the external displays are functioning as expected.
- If necessary, re-open the Displays settings to adjust the arrangement, resolution, or other preferences.
Troubleshooting Tips
- No Display on External Monitors: If the external displays are not showing anything, open the lid of your MacBook and check the connections.
- MacBook Sleeps When Lid Is Closed: Make sure your MacBook is connected to a power adapter. Clamshell Mode requires the MacBook to be plugged into an external power source.
- Performance Issues: If you experience lag or performance drops, try lowering the resolution or refresh rate of the external displays.
Thunderbolt Dock Users
With these steps, one can use Plugable Thunderbolt docks to enjoy a dual-display setup without the need for additional software installation. The dock leverages the native capabilities of the MacBook Air M3 and MacBook Pro M3, providing a straightforward and efficient solution for expanding your workspace with additional USB ports, audio, and ethernet (as well as the dual displays).
Additional Resources
If you should need any assistance with your setup, please feel free to reach out to our support team at support@plugable.com.