Anker USB-C Hub: Comprehensive Guide
This guide provides detailed information on the Anker USB-C Hub, including its features, usage instructions, and troubleshooting tips.
Introduction
This document introduces the Anker USB-C Hub, detailing its port layout and specifications.
The Anker USB-C Hub is depicted with several ports. A top view reveals ports labeled [2], [3], and [4]. A front view shows ports labeled [5] and [6]. A built-in USB-C cable, labeled [1], extends from the device. The hub has a sleek, rectangular design.
Port Technical Specifications
| No. | Port Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
| [1] | Built-in USB-C Cable | 21 cm |
| [2] | USB-C PD-IN Charging Port | Connect a 100W Power Delivery charger (not included) to enable up to 85W passthrough charging for your laptop. Note: This port is for charging only and does not support data transfer or video output. The USB-C PD port supports up to 85W charging for your laptop plus 15W for the hub itself. For optimal 85W charging, a 100W PD charger and cable (not included) are required. |
| [3] | SD/microSD Card Slot | Insert an SD or microSD card. Supports up to 104 MB/s transfer speed and up to 2TB storage capacity. |
| [4] | HDMI Port | Supports resolutions up to 4K@30Hz. |
| [5] | USB-C Data Port | Provides fast data transfer up to 5 Gbps. Note: This USB-C port is for data transfer only and does not support charging or media display. |
| [6] | USB 3.0 Port (x 2) | Provides fast data transfer up to 5 Gbps. |
Hub Technical Specifications
| Data Transfer Speed | 5 Gbps |
| Supported Systems | Windows 10 / 8 / 7 / Vista / XP, macOS X 10.2 (and later), Linux |
| Supported Host Devices | Windows and MacBook computers that support USB-C with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery, as well as USB4 and Thunderbolt 3/4/5 ports. |
Using the Hub
1. Connect to Your Laptop
Connect the hub to your laptop's USB-C port. Ensure the USB-C port supports Power Delivery (for charging) and DP Alt Mode (for HDMI display).
The Anker USB-C Hub's built-in USB-C cable [1] is plugged into the USB-C port on the side of the laptop.
2. Charge Your Laptop via the Hub
To charge your laptop through this hub, connect a PD wall adapter (not included) to the USB-C PD-IN port [2] using a USB-C cable (not included). As the hub consumes 15W for its operation, it is recommended to use a PD charger that provides at least 15W more than your laptop's original charger.
The Anker USB-C Hub is connected via a USB-C cable to its USB-C PD-IN port [2]. This cable is also connected to a PD wall charger, which is plugged into a standard electrical outlet.
3. Connect Peripherals
The Anker USB-C Hub is shown with various peripherals connected. An HDMI cable is plugged into the HDMI port [4]. An SD card is inserted into the SD card slot [3], and a microSD card is inserted into the microSD card slot [3].
Troubleshooting
Video Output Issues
Try the following troubleshooting steps:
- Verify that your laptop's USB-C port supports DP Alt Mode (display output). Check your laptop's manual, contact the seller, or visit the manufacturer's website to confirm.
- Update your laptop's graphics driver and see if it resolves the issue.
- Try the device with another laptop that has a USB-C port supporting DP Alt Mode.
- Try using a different HDMI cable or monitor, and lower the resolution or refresh rate to see if it resolves the problem.
- Disconnect the hub from your laptop and all connected devices for at least 5 minutes. Restart your laptop and reconnect the hub to see if this resolves the issue.
General Functionality Issues
Try the following troubleshooting steps:
- Disconnect the hub from your laptop and all connected devices for at least 5 minutes. Restart your laptop and reconnect the hub to see if this resolves the issue.
- Test the device with another laptop to see if the problem persists.
- Ensure that your peripherals function normally without the hub.
- Try using a different USB device to check if it works correctly in the ports.
Charging Issues
This hub's USB-C PD port supports up to 85W charging when connected to a 100W PD charger and USB-C to USB-C cable, as the hub itself requires 15W to operate. If you use a 30W charger, the hub consumes 15W, leaving insufficient power to charge your laptop. Additionally, this USB-C hub does not support Samsung's PPS (Programmable Power Supply) fast charging protocol. Therefore, Samsung devices connected to this hub will charge at normal speeds, which is typical when using non-PPS compatible accessories with Samsung devices that require this specific technology.
Troubleshooting steps:
- Verify the output wattage of the wall charger connected to the hub's USB-C PD input port.
- Check if your laptop charges directly from the charger without using the hub.
- Try using the hub with a different wall charger and USB-C to USB-C cable, both supporting 100W PD charging, to see if the problem persists.
- Test the hub with a different laptop to see if the charging issue is specific to one device.
- Disconnect the hub from your laptop and all connected devices for at least 5 minutes. Restart your laptop and reconnect the hub to see if this resolves the issue.
SD/microSD Card Issues
Try the following troubleshooting steps:
- Disconnect the hub from your laptop and all connected devices for at least 5 minutes. Restart your laptop and reconnect the hub to see if this resolves the issue.
- Check if the SD card has its write-protection switch enabled; if so, disable it by sliding the switch to the unlocked position.
- Try another device or a different SD card.
- Ensure the card is fully inserted into the slot.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Will this hub work with any laptop? How do I ensure my laptop is compatible with this hub?
This hub is compatible with laptops that have a USB-C port supporting Thunderbolt 4, USB4, DisplayPort Alt Mode, and Power Delivery. Check your laptop's USB-C port specifications in its user manual or by contacting the manufacturer. If your USB-C port does not support DisplayPort Alt Mode, you will not get video output. If it lacks Power Delivery functionality, the hub will work for video and data connections but will not charge your laptop.
Q2: Why does the hub feel warm?
It is normal for the hub to feel warm when charging or transferring data at high speeds. This heat is within the hub's operating range. To avoid excessive heating, do not place objects on top of or cover the hub.
Q3: Do I need to install drivers to use this hub?
No, this hub is plug-and-play. No software or drivers need to be installed.
Q4: Do I need to use a 100W PD wall charger to charge my laptop through this hub?
The required power supply depends on your laptop's charging needs. The hub supports up to 100W input power and consumes 15W for operation, leaving the remaining power available for your laptop. For optimal charging:
- For a laptop requiring 85W, use a 100W PD charger and a 100W cable (15W for the hub + 85W for the laptop).
- For a laptop requiring 65W, use an 80W PD charger and an 80W cable (15W for the hub + 65W for the laptop).
Ensure both the charger and cable meet the wattage specifications for efficient charging.
SN Location
The serial number (SN) is located on the back of the hub.
