Inateck USB C 7-in-1 Hub User Manual

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the Inateck USB C 7-in-1 Hub. This versatile hub is designed to expand the connectivity of your USB-C enabled devices, providing multiple ports for data transfer, video output, and power delivery. Please read this manual carefully to ensure proper use and optimal performance of your device.

Figure 1: Inateck USB C 7-in-1 Hub and its accessories.

2. Product Features

The Inateck HB2027-DG hub offers a comprehensive set of features to enhance your productivity:

• 7-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with 3 USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports, 1 HDMI 4K 30Hz port, 1 Power Delivery (PD) port, and 2 SD/TF card slots, all accessible via a single USB-C connection.
• High-Speed Data Transfer: Utilizes the USB 3.2 Gen 2 protocol, achieving data transfer rates up to 10 Gbps, which is twice the speed of USB 3.0 hubs.
• Power Delivery Support: The PD input port supports up to 100W, providing up to 85W of power to charge your connected devices.
• 4K Video Output: The HDMI port supports resolutions up to 4K@30Hz and is backward compatible with 1080p@60Hz.
• Extended Cable Length: Features a 50 cm (1.6 ft) cable, longer than many similar products, offering greater flexibility in setup.

Figure 2: Overview of the Inateck Hub's 7 ports.

3. Setup Guide

Follow these steps to set up your Inateck USB C 7-in-1 Hub:

1. Connect to Host Device: Plug the USB-C connector of the hub into an available USB-C port on your laptop, PC, iPad Pro, or other compatible device. Ensure your device's USB-C port supports DisplayPort Alternate Mode (for video output), Power Delivery (for charging), and data transfer.
2. Power Connection (Optional but Recommended): For optimal performance, especially when connecting multiple power-hungry devices or charging your host device, connect a USB-C Power Delivery charger (up to 100W) to the PD port on the hub.
3. Connect Peripherals: You can now connect your USB devices, HDMI display, and SD/TF cards to the corresponding ports on the hub.

Compatibility

The Inateck HB2027-DG hub is compatible with a wide range of operating systems:

• Windows 7/8/10/11
• Mac OS
• Linux

Figure 3: Operating system compatibility.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1. Data Transfer

The three USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports support data transfer speeds of up to 10 Gbps. Connect your external hard drives, USB flash drives, or other USB devices to these ports for fast file transfers.

Figure 4: USB 3.2 Gen 2 offers significantly faster data transfer than USB 3.0.

4.2. Video Output

Connect an HDMI cable from the hub's HDMI port to your monitor, TV, or projector. The hub supports resolutions up to 4K@30Hz, providing clear and vibrant visuals. Ensure your host device's USB-C port supports DisplayPort Alternate Mode.

Figure 5: 4K@30Hz video output capability.

4.3. Power Delivery (PD)

The USB-C PD port allows you to charge your host device while using the hub. Connect your original USB-C power adapter to this port. The hub consumes approximately 15W, so the actual charging power delivered to your device will be slightly less than the charger's rated power (e.g., a 100W charger will provide up to 85W to your device).

Figure 6: Power Delivery functionality.

4.4. SD/TF Card Reader

Insert your SD or TF (Micro SD) cards into the dedicated slots to access data directly. Both slots can be used simultaneously.

Figure 7: SD/TF card slot usage.

4.5. Extended Cable

The 50 cm (1.6 ft) cable provides flexibility, allowing you to position the hub conveniently, especially when your laptop is on a stand or when you need more desk space.

Figure 8: Benefit of the extended cable.

5. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Inateck USB C Hub, follow these maintenance guidelines:

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the surface of the hub. Avoid using liquid cleaners or abrasive materials.
• Storage: When not in use, store the hub in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Handling: Avoid dropping the hub or subjecting it to strong impacts. Do not bend or pull the cable excessively.
• Ventilation: Ensure the hub has adequate ventilation during operation to prevent overheating.

6. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Inateck USB C Hub, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

6.1. Why can't it reach a data rate of 10 Gbps?

• Shared Bandwidth: The three USB data transfer ports share the 10 Gbps bandwidth. If multiple devices are connected and actively transferring data simultaneously, the bandwidth will be divided among them.
• Device Compatibility: Ensure all connected devices, cables, and the host device's USB-C port are compatible with USB 3.2 Gen 2 specifications. If any component is USB 3.0, the speed will be limited to 5 Gbps.
• Contact Support: If all components are USB 3.2 Gen 2 compatible and you still cannot achieve the expected speed, please contact Inateck customer service for further assistance.

6.2. How can I make sure my device works properly with the HB2027?

• USB-C Port Functionality: For full functionality (video, power, data), your host device's USB-C port must support DisplayPort Alternate Mode, Power Delivery, and data transfer.
• Software Requirements: Some devices, especially certain phones or tablets, may require specific software or drivers for video output. Consult your device manufacturer's documentation.
• Surface Go Note: The USB-C port on Surface Go models does not support charging, as it has a dedicated Surface Connect port for power. Therefore, the PD function will not work when connected to a Surface Go.

6.3. Why does the hub get hot when in use?

The Inateck HB2027-DG is a high-performance 10G hub. Increased performance, especially during high data transfer rates or when multiple functions are active, generates heat. The hub's casing is designed to dissipate this heat, ensuring stable and safe operation. A warm surface is normal and does not indicate a malfunction.

6.4. Can the HB2027 work properly if it is not connected to PD power?

Yes, the hub can function without external PD power, drawing power directly from the connected host device (laptop, tablet). However, this will drain your host device's battery more quickly. For optimal performance, especially when using power-intensive peripherals (e.g., multiple hard drives) or charging your host device, connecting an external PD power source is highly recommended.

Important: Since the USB port of your computer, phone, or tablet continues to supply power in sleep or off mode, it is recommended to disconnect the hub when leaving it idle to prevent unnecessary battery drain of the connected device.

6.5. Can the HB2027 be connected to a smartphone or tablet?

Yes, based on testing, the HB2027 can connect to tablets to transmit video to a monitor and simultaneously transfer data to an SSD. However, mobile phone and tablet USB-C ports may not provide sufficient power for the hub to operate multiple power-hungry devices (e.g., more than 2 hard drives). In such cases, it is recommended to connect the hub to a PD power source with an input of 18W or more for proper functionality.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

Inateck products are designed for reliability and performance. While specific warranty details may vary by region and retailer, a standard return policy of 30 days is typically offered. For any product-related inquiries, technical support, or warranty claims, please contact Inateck customer service. You can usually find contact information on the official Inateck website or through your purchase platform.

When contacting support, please provide your product model number (HB2027-DG) and a detailed description of the issue.