Why use a USB Hub? There are an impressive number of USB devices: imaging camera, guide camera, focuser, filter wheel, adaptive optics, flats panel, etc. Each has its own USB cable and by using a USB Hub up on the telescope, you have only 1 cord that needs to come down from the mount.
Why 12V? Because 12V is what you use to power almost all of your devices! In most cases, a 12V power source is already up on the telescope. This eliminates 1 more cord that can get snagged when the mount slews.
Unpowered hubs just don't work! Some mounts feature a built-in USB Hub, but we have yet to see one that is powered. Considering the number of USB devices and the length of the USB extension cable, data transmission and power for your USB devices just isn't going to happen unless the Hub is powered.
The Kendrick active USB Hub is powered from 12 vdc, and to the best of our knowledge, this is the only hub of its type in the world! This hub has been designed primarily for use by astro-photographers but this it will appeal to anyone requiring a USB hub in a field operation or permanent observatory situation.
Standard desktop hubs are designed for use indoors and must be powered from 120 volt or 240 volt mains electricity. For anyone requiring the use of a USB hub outdoors or in a remote situation where access to mains electricity is difficult or impossible, this device is a welcome addition.
For astro-imagers, the use of a hub at the scope helps reduce wire routing and tangling problems. We use a small heater inside to keep things nice & dry!
The Kendrick USB Hub can be powered with the standard power cord (cigarette lighter plug version) OR from other Kendrick devices:
- From DigiFire DC Accessory 12V Port. We have optional power cords that connect to our DigiFire FX/FX-PRO or older DigiFire 8/12. NOTE: The older DigiFire 8 & 12 models use the 2.1mm version of the barrel connector.
- Anderson Power Pole that works with our Portable Power Packs OR Power Panel Products
Include In The Box:
- 12 volt power cord (non locking) that terminates in a cigarette lighter plug (other optional power cords also available).
- USB cable, 1 meter (3.3 ft.) long, male A to male B.*
- Adhesive Velcro (2-part)
*Longer USB cables are available for purchase (10' and 15').
Features include:
- USB3.0 transfer rates up to 5Gbps, 10 times faster than USB2.0
- Charging hub that can recharging smart-phones/tablets that require 2.1 Amp
- A small heater inside keeps plugs nice and dry!
- Powered from 12 VDC.
- This is an active hub.
- Backwards compatible with USB2.0 /1.1
- Rugged case.
- Optional port dust covers. Great for use in unused ports and for storage. Keeps your ports clean and moisture free!
- Includes velcro to attach to a surface of your choice.
- Hubs can be ganged.
Specifications:
- USB 3.0
- Electrical requirement: 12 VDC.
- Maximum Total amperage: 5 amps / 2.4 Amp on individual ports
- Dimensions: 6.89 " x 2.95" x 0.91" (175mm X 75mm X 23mm)
- Weight (without Power Cord): 5.8 oz (166 gr)
One year parts and labour warranty.
Do it yourself power cord modification using Anderson Power Poles.
Modify your power cords with Anderson Power Poles. These are clever plugs that are small and light and can handle 15 Amps of power. We offer both "welded" and "unwelded" pairs. The "welded" pairs have been sonically welded (glued) and the plug orientation works with Kendrick LINX or Imaging Power Panels. For the "unwelded" pairs, the clever "genderless" design allows the plugs to be oriented so that 2 plugs can mate for making extension cords. The plastic housings "snap" together and can be arranged in several orientations. If you are not sure about the orientation of our fused pair, order the un-fused set.
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