Wouldn’t it be cool to have one device that can sync and charge up to seven devices regardless as to what type of connection they actually have? Well you can, with the new HUB-IT, an all-in-one sync and charge station from Eggtronic.
Designed by a former Maserati employee, HUB-IT is a funky desktop device (6.7” x 6.7” x 1.3”) that combines the aesthetics of Italian flair with USB 3.0 technology. And it actually looks like a hub in the traditional sense of the word, because you can connect your devices from all four sides of its perimeter. It has seven ports including three USB 3.0 super-speed ports and four cartridge connectors (Apple Lightning, Apple 30-pin, micro USB or mini USB connector) - a different one on each side. Each is fitted with about a 10” retractable cable which you can simply pull on to expand the cable and when it reaches a little tension at the end, simply let go and will spring back into place. There is also an LED indicator next to each port that displays its charging status.
If you pop off the plastic cover you’ll see that each individual connector is sectioned off in its own little cubby area and housed in it’s own hot-swappable plug in cartridge. This makes them easier to replace if one becomes defective or optionally (exchange) for others of a different type instead of replacing the entire device
HUB-IT is AC powered so you can charge your devices independently from a computer, plus you can connect the sync cable to your PC or Mac enabling connectivity to your computer while charging.
Each port offers a 2.5A output good enough to charge up an iPad. Now the device itself maxes out at 4A so if you have all the ports in use it will need to share the load and will slow some of the ports down somewhat – so don’t expect full fast charging from each device if it’s loaded up.
You also notice that there are five additional power slots that have a lightning insignia. My understanding is that these are to be used for future expansion modules like Bluetooth connectivity, wireless charging and battery cartridges.
Hub-IT is cleverly designed with the future in mind. It has upgradable firmware, so it can keep up as the product is enhanced.
It’s important to note that at the time of writing, firmware upgrades come on the form of a “.exe” file and therefore can only be done currently via the Windows compatible device. Another consideration is that is while you can charge and sync i.e. connect your devices like an iPhone or smartphone to your computer and engage with them, you currently cannot simultaneously do both with power-hungry devices like an iPad. If you do, it’s likely your iPad will not charge, unless it’s in sleep mode. This last item may have more to do with the nature of these devices and the power offered by your computer’s USB port, but important to mention nonetheless in the event, for example, you need to simultaneously charge and sync your iPad. You also want to handle the cables with care as the retractable style is not as thick or robust as a standard one.
These few notations aside, I think overall, HUB-IT is a clever invention. There more devices you can charge at once, the better and the ability to sync while charging, certainly adds value. Plus, the fact it’s firmware upgradeable and built for expansion, not to mention looks pretty slick, is a bonus.
The HUB-IT Sync & Charge Station by Eggtronic is compatible with Windows, Mac OS and Linux OS as well as a plethora of USB powered devices. It retails for $79.95 US and additional cartridges can be purchased individually for $7.95 US. Both are available via Amazon.
WIN your own HUB-IT
However, as a Canoe Tech Blog reader, you can win your own HUB-IT, by simply sharing this post and leaving a comment below.
To get your chance to win:
1) please feel free to leave a comment, like telling us what you might use it for and
2) please share this article, if you like, on your favourite Social Media networks using buttons above.
Fine Print:
Contest is open to any resident of Canada, 18 years or older, except residents of Quebec.
The contest begins at 4:00PM EDT, Wednesday October 8th, 2014 and closes at 11:59PM EDT Monday October 13th, 2014. No purchase necessary, but reader must log in to post a comment.
Only one entry per person. We cannot be responsible for lost entries.
Winner will be drawn from eligible entries received and must answer a skill-testing question. Winner will be notified by email to the address supplied, within 24 hours and has 24 hours to respond. If no response, another winner may be selected.
Winner will receive a Hub-IT Sync and Charge station (value: $79.95 U.S.) courtesy of Eggtronic and will also allow his or her name and city to be published. Prizes must be accepted as awarded.
ACT NOW
It’s that easy. But remember, to be eligible, entries must be received no later than 11:59 p.m. EDT on Monday October 13th, 2014.
Happy Thanksgiving, Canada!
Photos courtesy Eggtronic Inc.
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Greg Gazin is the Real Canadian Gadget Guy.
Follow me on Twitter @gadgetgreg or Empire Avenue (e)GADGET1.
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