How to Build a Wireless USB Hub: Power Options

A wireless USB hub is a great way to connect multiple computers to several different USB devices. The wireless USB hub works within the home network so that you can easily print documents, or save items to an external hard drive, from anywhere in the home. The hub also makes these items sharable along the network. Building a wireless USB hub is something that can be done with the right electronic parts and a diagram to follow. 

Step 1: Purchase AC Adapter

It is important to purchase the right type of AC adapter needed for the type of wireless USB hub that you are building. A USB hub that has several ports in it is going to need a slightly more powerful adapter than one with just two or four. The more ports that are going to be used on the USB hub the larger the adapter is going to need to be.

Step 2: Study the Diagrams

When building a USB hub you will most likely be using a kit. Read over the wiring diagram of the kit so that you know where the exact placement of the AC plug-in will go. Generally these are on the back of the device. There should already be a location for the power supply cord built into the case of the wireless USB hub. 

Step 3: Lay Out Pin Connector

The part that the AC adapter plugs into is the pin connector. It is housed within the case of the USB hub itself. It needs to be connected to the processor unit that transfers the power to the individual ports. Each port is going to have its own power needs. Set the pin connector in the position before doing any permanent housing. You want to make sure that it is going to fit perfectly. 

Step 4: Prepare Wires for Soldering

Chances are the wires are going to need to be stripped in order to solder them to the correct places. Use a small pair of wire strippers and remove 1/2 inch of the insulation on the wire for the pin connector. This will ensure a good contact at the attaching point. 

Step 5: Solder Wires to Connector

Turn on the soldering gun and let it heat up. Meanwhile apply some soldering paste to the exposed section of the wire and to the attaching point. Place the wire on the area where it needs to be connected and touch it with the solder. Use the soldering gun to heat up the solder until it melts a small drop. This should cover the wire and the connecting point. 

Step 6: Attach Pin Connector to Casing

Place the connector back into its position and snap it into place. Place the cover over the pin connector and ensure that it is secure and will not move. 

Step 7: Test Power Supply

Once the casing of the wireless USB hub is secure then plug in the AC adapter to the pin connector. Plug the adapter into the outlet and check to see if the power light turns on.