Anker USB-C Hub
Model: A8346
Overview
Product Diagram
The Anker USB-C Hub features a compact design with several ports labeled numerically:
- 1: Integrated USB-C Cable (21cm)
- 2: USB-C PD-IN Charging Port
- 3: SD/microSD Card Slot
- 4: HDMI Port
- 5: USB-C Data Port
- 6: USB 3.0 Ports (x2)
Port Specifications
| No. | Port Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Integrated USB-C Cable | 21cm |
| 2 | USB-C PD-IN Charging Port | Connect a 100W Power Delivery charger (not included) to charge your laptop with up to 85W pass-through charging. Note: This port is for charging only and does not support data transfer or video output. It supports up to 85W charging for the laptop and an additional 15W for the hub's operation. A 100W PD charger and cable are recommended for optimal 85W charging. |
| 3 | SD/microSD Card Slot | Insert an SD or microSD memory card. Note: Maximum transfer speed is 104MB/s, and maximum storage capacity is 2TB. |
| 4 | HDMI Port | Supports resolutions up to 4K@30Hz. |
| 5 | USB-C Data Port | Provides fast data transfer up to 5Gbps. Note: This USB-C port is for data transfer only and does not support charging or media display. |
| 6 | USB 3.0 Ports (x2) | Provides fast data transfer up to 5Gbps. |
Specifications Summary
| Data Transfer Speed | 5Gbps |
| Supported Systems | Windows 10 / 8 / 7 / Vista / XP, Mac OS X 10.2 (or later), Linux |
| Supported Host Devices | Windows and MacBook computers supporting USB-C DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery, USB4 and Thunderbolt 3/4/5 ports. |
How to Use
1. Connect to Your Laptop
Connect the hub to a USB-C port on your laptop. Ensure the USB-C port supports Power Delivery (for charging) and DP Alt Mode (for HDMI display).
Diagram Description: An Anker USB-C hub is shown connected to a laptop via its integrated USB-C cable.
2. Charge Your Laptop via the Hub (Optional)
To charge your laptop through this hub, connect a USB-C cable (not included) from a PD wall charger (not included) to the hub's USB-C PD-IN port. The hub consumes 15W for its own operation. It is recommended to use a PD charger that provides at least 15W more than your laptop's original charger to ensure sufficient power for both the hub and the laptop.
Diagram Description: An Anker USB-C hub is connected to a laptop. A PD wall charger is connected to the hub's PD-IN port, and the charger is plugged into a wall outlet.
3. Connect Peripherals
Connect your peripherals such as HDMI displays, SD cards, microSD cards, and other USB devices to the corresponding ports on the hub.
Diagram Description: An Anker USB-C hub is shown with various devices connected: an HDMI display, a microSD card, an SD card, and USB devices.
Troubleshooting
Video Output Issues
Follow these steps to resolve video output problems:
- Verify that your laptop's USB-C port supports DP Alt Mode. Consult your laptop's user manual, contact the manufacturer, or visit their website.
- Update your laptop's graphics drivers to see if the issue is resolved.
- Test the device with a laptop that supports DP Alt Mode on a different USB-C port.
- Try a different HDMI cable or monitor, and lower the resolution or refresh rate to see if the problem is resolved.
- Disconnect the hub from your laptop and all connected devices for at least 5 minutes. Reboot your laptop, then reconnect the hub and check if the issue is resolved.
Operation Issues
Follow these steps to resolve general operation problems:
- Disconnect the hub from your laptop and all connected devices for at least 5 minutes. Reboot your laptop, then reconnect the hub and check if the issue is resolved.
- Connect the hub to a different laptop to see if the problem persists.
- Ensure your peripherals are working correctly without the hub.
- Test the ports with different USB devices to confirm they are functioning properly.
Charging Issues
This hub's USB-C PD port supports up to 85W charging when connected to a 100W PD charger and a USB-C to USB-C cable. The hub requires 15W for its own operation. If you use a 30W charger, the hub will consume 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 standard speeds, which is normal for Samsung devices requiring specific technology when using accessories that do not support PPS.
Troubleshooting steps for charging:
- Check the output status of the wall charger connected to the hub's USB-C PD input port.
- Ensure your laptop charges directly from the charger without the hub.
- Test if the problem persists using a different 100W PD charger and USB-C to USB-C cable.
- Test the hub with a different laptop to determine if the charging issue is specific to your device.
SD/microSD Card Issues
Follow these steps to resolve SD/microSD card problems:
- Disconnect the hub from your laptop and all connected devices for at least 5 minutes. Reboot your laptop, then reconnect the hub and check if the issue is resolved.
- Check if the write-protect switch on the SD card is enabled. If it is, move the switch to the unlock position to disable it.
- Test with a different device or a different SD card.
- Ensure the card is fully inserted.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q1: Will this hub work with all laptops? How can I check if my laptop is compatible?
- This hub is compatible with laptops that have a USB-C port supporting Thunderbolt 4, USB4, DisplayPort Alt Mode, and Power Delivery. To check your laptop's USB-C port capabilities, consult its user manual, contact the manufacturer, or visit their website. If the USB-C port does not support DisplayPort Alt Mode, video output will not function. If it lacks Power Delivery, the hub can still provide video and data transfer but cannot charge the laptop.
- Q2: Why does the hub feel warm?
- It is normal for the hub to become warm when performing high-speed data transfers or charging. This temperature is within the hub's operating limits. To prevent overheating, do not place objects on 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 driver installation is required.
- Q4: Do I need to use a 100W PD wall charger to charge my laptop through this hub?
- The required power adapter depends on your laptop's charging needs. The hub supports up to 100W input, consumes 15W for operation, and the remaining power can be used for laptop charging. For optimal charging: • Laptops requiring 85W should use a 100W PD charger and 100W cable (15W for the hub + 85W for the laptop). • Laptops requiring 65W should use an 80W PD charger and 80W cable (15W for the hub + 65W for the laptop). Ensure your charger and cable meet the power specifications for efficient charging.
SN Location
The serial number (SN) is located on the back of the hub.
SN Code Interpretation
Note: 'x' in the SN code (xxXXXXXXXXXXXXXX) represents variables. Refer to the table below.
| Variable 'x' | Range of Variable | Content |
|---|---|---|
| Eighth digit | 0-9 or A-F | Indicates the hardware version, not affecting safety regulations. |
| Ninth digit | 8,9,A,B,C... | Indicates the year of manufacture. 8 for 2018, 9 for 2019, A for 2020, B for 2021, C for 2022, and so on. |
| Tenth and Eleventh digits | 01,02,03... | Indicates the week of the year. 01 signifies the first week of the year, 02 the second week, and so forth. |
| Twelfth digit | 1-7 | Indicates the day of the week. 1 for Monday, 2 for Tuesday, ... 7 for Sunday, and so on. |
| Last five digits | 00001-99999 | Indicates the serial number. |
