Troubleshooting Common Problems with a USB Splitter

A USB splitter is very useful in connecting high-tech gadgets and digital devices into our laptops and computers. The USB (Universal Serial Bus) is the standard connection that we use to attach devices to our computer such as keyboards, mouse, web and digital cameras, scanners, and printers too. Most computers have two to four onboard USB slots, and these may not be enough to connect all the equipment that we want to plug in simultaneously. With a USB splitter (also known as USB hub), your USB connection will be increased to multiple USB ports. Just as in a power outlet, one end connects to the main USB port while the other end has several slots (more or less four slots) for you to connect your USB devices. This enables transfer and sharing of data to and from different USB equipment.

As helpful as it is, some people still encounter problems while using a USB splitter. What follows provide basic troubleshooting tips that can solve common problems with this device.

USB Splitter Not Detected by the Computer

If this case happens, try rebooting the computer with the splitter still plugged into it. If after the reboot the splitter is still not detected, transfer it to other USB ports in your PC to further isolate the problem. If the USB splitter is detected by the other ports, then the first port might be defective. If no connection is established after trying all the available slots, either the USB ports in the computer or the USB splitter itself is not working. Also check if other USB devices can be recognized by your computer because if this is so, the splitter may be defective.

To further verify where the problem exists, attach the USB splitter into another PC’s USB port. If the device is detected, then the USB ports of the first computer may not be functioning. Have a technician check and repair it if possible. If the splitter is still not recognized by the other PC, you should return it to the store and have it replaced.

It is also very important to note that not all Windows operating system can work with a USB. Make sure that your computer runs on Windows XP and above.

Slow Connection between USB Devices

Simple USB devices like flash disks, keyboards, and mouse can work well with an un-powered USB splitter. But if you connect multiple and more complex USB gadgets such as an external hard disk, digital camcorder, external CD/DVD ROM, and web camera all at the same time, the power coming out from the main USB connection in your PC is not enough to supply all the devices that are being attached to an unpowered USB splitter.

To avoid slow connections or possible loss of data, it is best to use a powered USB splitter for your different gadgets. This type of splitter has as AC adapter that gives enough power supply for power-consuming devices.

Also, be sure to check the type of USB standard that’s installed on your PC.  There are two types of USB standard, the USB 1.1 and USB 2.0. USB 1.1 is the old and slow standard, and runs approximately up to 1.5 Megabytes/second. On the other hand, the USB 2.0 is much faster with up to 61 Megabytes/second. So if your PC has USB 1.1 standard, then all connected devices will run at USB 1.1 speed, even if these devices are USB 2.0 already.

In the same manner, if your PC works on USB 2.0 and you connect it to a USB 1.1 device, the connection between the two will only work at the speed of USB 1.1.

You need to have extra attention and knowledge in connecting USB devices to your USB splitter. To gain maximum performance, it is best to have the latest USB 2.0 standard on your PC and other electronic devices.