Totally Connected (1/2)
Kensington PocketHub Media Center
INTRODUCTION
My PowerBook G4 has
2 USB ports. I have around a dozen USB
devices that I use on a regular basis, and each
time I need to print, import photos from my Camera
or upload something to my PDA, I have to disconnect
either my external keyboard or my mouse. Needless
to say that this gets old fast...especially when
the USB ports are in the back of the notebook (unlike
the new PowerBooks with ports on the sides).
(all images link to a higher resolution)
Enter the Kensington PocketHub Media Center USB 2.0. Since receiving this unit for review a week ago I have not needed a single extra USB Port. The Kensington PocketHub is a unique USB Hub & Card Reader. Incorporating compatibility with 15 of today's most popular memory cards with 3 extra easy-to-reach USB ports the PocketHub is ideal for anyone with many USB devices and only a few ports to plug them into. And since the entire Hub is USB 2.0 compatible, you're guaranteed to never need more bandwidth. Read on to find out just how utilitarian this device is.
WHAT'S HOT
Everyone knows what a card reader is, and everyone knows what a USB hub is. Each allows an easy way to attach peripherals to your USB-equipped computer. In general the two units are separate, requiring the use of 2 dedicated ports to run them. The Kensington is great in that it incorporates almost every common card slot (with the notable exception of XD-Picture Cards) with the ease of a powered USB hub. This is one of the most useful peripherals I've ever used.
PRODUCT FEATURES
The Kensington PocketHub is extremely robust, incorporating just about every feature you could want in a Card Reader and a USB hub. It is optionally powered by the sleek included charger, it allows for the simultaneous access of cards in each of the 4 card slots, and supports the leading 15 formats for these 4 card types. Plus, the PocketHub is the same size as most stand-alone USB hubs. The unit also comes with an emblazoned carrying bag for the charger and main unit for when the Media Center must be taken on the road.
