StarTech.com HB20A4AME

Need help?

Do you have a question about the StarTech.com HB20A4AME and is the answer not in the manual?

Summary

Product Diagram

Front View

Displays the front of the USB hub, highlighting ports and power indicators.

Back View

Shows the rear of the USB hub, featuring mounting holes and connectivity options.

Installation

Connecting the Hub

Instructions for connecting the USB hub to a computer and peripherals.

External Power Connection

Guidance on connecting an external power source to the USB hub's power terminal.

Compliance Information

FCC Compliance Statement

Details the equipment's compliance with FCC rules for digital devices and potential interference.

Industry Canada Statement

Confirms the apparatus's compliance with Canadian digital device standards.

Product Support and Warranty

Technical Support

Information on accessing lifetime technical support and resources from StarTech.com.

Warranty Information

Outlines the two-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.

Limitation of Liability

Defines the extent of StarTech.com's liability regarding product damages or losses.

This document describes the StarTech.com 4-Port USB 2.0 Hub - Industrial-Grade - ESD and Surge Protection, model number HB20A4AME. This device is designed to expand the USB connectivity of a computer in industrial environments, offering robust protection against electrostatic discharge (ESD) and power surges.

Function Description

The HB20A4AME is a 4-port USB 2.0 hub that allows a single USB host port on a computer to be expanded into four downstream USB 2.0 ports. Its industrial-grade design makes it suitable for demanding applications where reliability and protection are crucial. The hub facilitates the connection of multiple USB peripheral devices to a host computer, such as industrial cameras, sensors, or other data acquisition equipment. It supports USB 2.0 specifications, ensuring data transfer rates up to 480 Mbps.

A key feature of this hub is its integrated ESD and surge protection, which safeguards connected devices and the hub itself from electrical damage that can occur in industrial settings due to power fluctuations or static electricity. This protection enhances the longevity and reliability of the entire USB system.

The hub also features LED indicators for both power status and port activity. A Power LED illuminates when the hub is powered on, while individual Port Activity LEDs illuminate when a USB device is connected to a respective port, providing visual confirmation of device connectivity.

Important Technical Specifications

Connectivity:

USB Host Port: 1 x USB 2.0 host port (USB-B type)
USB Peripheral Ports: 4 x USB 2.0 ports (USB-A type)
Data Transfer Rate: Up to 480 Mbps (USB 2.0)

Power:

Power Input: Terminal block for external power source
Minimum Voltage: 7 V
Maximum Voltage: 48 V
Minimum Recommended Amperage: 2 A (at 7 V)
Minimum Recommended Wattage: 14 W
Power LED: Indicates when the hub is powered on.

Protection:

ESD Protection: Integrated
Surge Protection: Integrated

Physical Characteristics:

Mounting: DIN rail mountable
Enclosure: Industrial-grade design
Dimensions: Not explicitly stated, but implied to be compact for industrial installations.
Color: Typically black or dark gray, as shown in diagrams.

Environmental:

Designed for industrial environments, implying a robust operating temperature range and resistance to common industrial hazards, though specific environmental ratings are not detailed in this excerpt.

System Requirements:

A USB-equipped computer
Up to four peripheral devices with cabling
Operating system requirements are subject to change; users are advised to check the product page for the latest information.

Usage Features

Easy Installation: The hub is designed for straightforward installation.

Host Connection: Connect the USB 2.0 host port (labeled PORT 0) on the hub to a USB port on your computer using the included USB-A to USB-B cable.
Peripheral Connection: Connect your USB peripheral devices to the four available USB 2.0 ports on the hub.
External Power (Recommended): For optimal performance and to ensure sufficient power for connected devices, especially in industrial settings, it is recommended to connect an external power source. The hub features a terminal block for connecting positive and negative power pins (ranging from 7V to 48V) and a grounding wire. This ensures stable power delivery to all connected USB devices.

DIN Rail Mounting: The HB20A4AME is specifically designed for industrial installations, featuring DIN rail mounting capabilities.

Attach Clips: Secure the provided DIN rail clips to the USB hub using the included DIN rail screws and a Phillips type screwdriver (sold separately).
Slide onto Rail: Slide the assembled hub with clips into the DIN rail on your rack or enclosure. This allows for secure and organized installation within industrial control panels or equipment racks.

Visual Status Indicators:

Power LED: A dedicated LED clearly indicates when the hub is receiving power and is operational.
Port Activity LEDs: Individual LEDs for each port provide immediate visual feedback on whether a USB device is successfully connected to that specific port. This helps in quick troubleshooting and status monitoring without needing to access the computer's device manager.

Broad Compatibility: The hub is compatible with any USB-equipped computer and supports up to four peripheral devices. While specific operating system requirements are dynamic, the general USB 2.0 standard ensures wide compatibility across various platforms.

Maintenance Features

Durable Construction: The "Industrial-Grade" designation implies a robust and durable construction designed to withstand the rigors of industrial environments. This typically includes a sturdy enclosure and high-quality components, reducing the need for frequent maintenance or replacement.

ESD and Surge Protection: The built-in ESD and surge protection are critical maintenance features. By preventing electrical damage from static discharge and power fluctuations, these protections significantly reduce the risk of component failure for both the hub and connected peripherals. This minimizes downtime and the need for repairs or replacements due to electrical events.

Simple Troubleshooting with LEDs: The Power and Port Activity LEDs serve as basic diagnostic tools. If the Power LED is off, it indicates a power supply issue. If a Port Activity LED for a connected device is off, it suggests a connection problem with that specific device, allowing for quick identification and resolution of issues without complex diagnostic equipment.

Modular Design: The DIN rail mounting allows for easy installation and removal from a rack, simplifying maintenance or replacement procedures if necessary. This modularity is a common feature in industrial equipment, enabling quick swaps and minimizing disruption to operations.

Regular Updates and Support: StarTech.com emphasizes providing the latest information, technical specifications, and support. Users are encouraged to visit the product's dedicated webpage for updated operating system requirements, drivers/software, and comprehensive technical support, ensuring the device remains compatible and performs optimally over its lifespan. This proactive approach to support helps in maintaining the device's functionality and addressing any potential issues.