How to Build a Wireless USB Hub: Installing the Ports

A wireless USB hub is a great device that allows a computer to connect to various USB-enabled devices remotely. This gives users access to the USB devices even without having to physically connect to the peripheral device. Keyboards, mice, flash disks, and other devices can be easily inserted to the wireless USB hub ports, and it will connect to connected devices within the range of the hub. In order to allow the USB devices to connect to the wireless USB hub, several ports need to be installed to the hub. Here is how.

Step 1 – Determine the Number of Ports Required for the Hub

This can be provided in the wireless USB Hub schematics. It will most likely be 4, 8, 16, or even 24 ports. Make sure to get USB hub schematics that support that number of ports. The more ports required, the longer it will take for the installation process.

Step 2 – Study the Diagram

Make sure to check where the USB ports should be connected to the circuit board. There are four wires on the port that need to be connected to the circuit board. Two of these wires are designed for power, and two of them are designed for data transfer. These wires are color coded for easier installation. Make sure to follow the schematics correctly before joining the USB port connectors to the circuit board on the hub.

Step 3 – Connect the USB Ports

If the kit comes with installation on how to connect the ports to the circuit board, then follow those instructions carefully. Typically, the schematics will show where the four wires are to be connected to the circuit board. Carefully solder the wires onto the board and stick the port into the holes provided to hold the ports in place. Make sure that the port is firmly attached to the circuit board before proceeding with the next port.

When soldering, be very careful in the application of the solder. Since the circuit board may burn from the heat produced by the soldering device, never allow the tip of the tool to touch the board. After the port has been soldered and secured onto the board, install the other ports one by one until all ports are installed.

Step 4 – Testing the Ports

To check if the ports have been installed correctly, do a testing after all other parts of the hub are installed. Work piece by piece until all the necessary parts are installed, and don’t install the case yet. Test the device first to check if the ports are correctly connected and soldered to the right spots on the circuit board.

Turn on the hub and connect a USB enabled device on a port. Check if this can be accessed on a computer.  Afterwards, check the other ports as well. If a port does not work, double check the connections and retest before installing the hub casing.