Black Box LBS008A USB-Powered 8-Port Fast Ethernet Switch - 10/100Base-TX - Layer 2 - Desktop
Business volume discounts
Technical guidance
Preparation & staging
QC · ON · AB · BC
Product Features
Technical Overview
The LBS008A switch is built on Fast Ethernet technology, supporting data transfer speeds up to 100 Mbps per port over standard twisted-pair cabling with a maximum distance of 100 meters. It functions at Layer 2 of the OSI model, enabling basic switching features like MAC address learning and frame forwarding to segment network traffic and reduce collisions.
Power is supplied via an included power supply or a USB connection, offering deployment flexibility in locations where AC outlets may be limited. The switch is not manageable, so it lacks features like VLANs, QoS, or SNMP, keeping operation simple and cost-effective for basic connectivity needs.
Relevant factors for this section include Total Number of Network Ports, Uplink Port, Modular, Media Type Supported. When those points are considered together, they give buyers a clearer picture of how the product is equipped, how it fits into deployment, and what kind of day-to-day role it is meant to support.
Key Product Advantages
This switch excels in scenarios where simplicity, compact size, and easy deployment are priorities. Its USB power capability allows it to be powered from a computer or USB charger, reducing cable clutter and enabling placement in tight spaces.
Compact Desktop Design
With dimensions of 2.40" W x 3.10" D x 0.80" H and a weight of 6.40 oz, the switch has a minimal footprint that fits easily on desks, shelves, or in small enclosures without requiring rack mounting.
- Small footprint saves space
- Lightweight for portable use
Plug-and-Play Operation
As an unmanaged switch, it requires no setup or configuration. Simply connect devices with Ethernet cables, and the switch automatically handles network traffic, making it ideal for non-technical users or temporary installations.
- No configuration needed
- Ideal for quick deployments
Deployment / Use Cases
The Black Box LBS008A is tailored for environments where adding a few wired connections quickly and affordably is more important than advanced network features. Its desktop form factor and USB power support make it versatile for non-standard locations.
Common use cases include small office workgroups where employees need to connect PCs, printers, and laptops to a shared network; conference rooms or lobbies requiring temporary internet access for presentations or guests; and educational labs or maker spaces where simple, expandable connectivity supports collaborative projects without complex infrastructure.
Small Office Networking
Extend network ports to desktops, printers, and other peripherals in departments or home offices, creating a reliable wired LAN without upgrading existing switches.
- Connects up to 8 devices
- Reduces wireless congestion
Ad-Hoc Event Setup
Deploy quickly in temporary spaces like trade show booths, training rooms, or remote offices, using USB power for easy installation where AC outlets are scarce.
- USB power for flexibility
- Easy to transport and set up
Physical Profile
The switch features a compact desktop enclosure measuring 2.40 inches wide, 3.10 inches deep, and 0.80 inches high, with a lightweight design at approximately 6.40 ounces. This small size allows it to be placed discreetly on desks, behind monitors, or in other limited spaces without occupying significant room. The finish is designed for durability in office environments, and the lack of rack ears or mounting options emphasizes its role as a standalone desktop unit.
- Width
- 2.40" (60.96 mm)
- Depth
- 3.10" (78.74 mm)
- Height
- 0.80" (20.32 mm)
- Weight
- 6.40 oz (181.44 g)
What's in the Box
The package includes all necessary components for immediate use, ensuring a complete out-of-the-box experience.
Highlights
- 8 Fast Ethernet ports for connecting PCs, laptops, printers, and peripherals
- Layer 2 switching support for efficient LAN traffic management
- USB-powered operation for flexible deployment without AC outlet dependency
- Desktop form factor ideal for placements outside wiring closets
- 10/100Base-TX speeds over twisted-pair cabling up to 100 meters
- Unmanaged design for plug-and-play setup with no configuration required
- Compact size (2.40" W x 3.10" D x 0.80" H) and lightweight at 6.40 oz
- TAA compliant and environmentally friendly, made in Taiwan
- Includes power cable and supply for immediate use
- Backed by a 1-year limited warranty
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Black Box Corporation |
| Manufacturer Part Number | LBS008A |
| Brand Name | Black Box |
| Product Model | LBS008A |
| Product Name | USB-Powered 10/100 8-Port Switch |
| Product Type | Ethernet Switch |
| Interfaces/Ports | |
| Total Number of Network Ports | 8 |
| Uplink Port | No |
| Modular | No |
| Stack Port | No |
| Port/Expansion Slot Details | 8 x Fast Ethernet Network |
| Media & Performance | |
| Media Type Supported | Twisted Pair |
| Ethernet Technology | Fast Ethernet |
| Network Technology | 10/100Base-TX |
| Network & Communication | |
| Layer Supported | 2 |
| Management & Protocols | |
| Manageable | No |
| Power Description | |
| PoE (RJ-45) Port | No |
| Power Source | Power Supply,USB |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Form Factor | Desktop |
| Height | 0.80" (20.32 mm) |
| Width | 2.40" (60.96 mm) |
| Depth | 3.10" (78.74 mm) |
| Weight (Approximate) | 6.40 oz (181.44 g) |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Package Contents | USB-Powered 10/100 8-Port Switch Power Cable Power Supply |
| Environmentally Friendly | Yes |
| Country of Origin | Taiwan |
| TAA Compliant | Yes |
| Warranty | |
| Limited Warranty | 1 Year |
User Manual
FAQ
How many devices can I connect to this switch?
The Black Box LBS008A has 8 Fast Ethernet ports, allowing you to connect up to 8 wired devices such as computers, printers, or network-attached storage. It supports simultaneous data transfer across all ports at speeds up to 100 Mbps per port, making it suitable for small office or home office networks where multiple devices need shared internet or LAN access.
Does this switch support Power over Ethernet (PoE)?
No, this switch does not support Power over Ethernet. The RJ-45 ports are for data transmission only and cannot deliver power to connected devices like IP phones or wireless access points. Power for the switch itself is provided via an included power supply or a USB connection, so you'll need separate power sources for any PoE devices.
What is the difference between Layer 2 and unmanaged switching?
Layer 2 refers to the data link layer in networking, where this switch operates to forward frames based on MAC addresses, helping to reduce network collisions. Unmanaged means the switch has no configurable settings like VLANs or QoS; it works automatically out of the box. So, the LBS008A offers basic Layer 2 switching functionality without management features, ideal for simple, plug-and-play deployments.
Can I use this switch in a rack-mounted setup?
No, this switch is designed as a desktop unit and does not include rack ears or mounting hardware for installation in a server rack. Its compact form factor (2.40" W x 3.10" D x 0.80" H) is intended for placement on desks, shelves, or other flat surfaces, making it best suited for environments where rack space isn't available or necessary.
What type of cables are compatible with this switch?
The switch supports standard twisted-pair Ethernet cables, such as Cat5e or Cat6, with RJ-45 connectors. It is compatible with 10/100Base-TX network technology, allowing data transfer up to 100 meters per cable. Ensure cables are in good condition to maintain optimal performance, as damaged cables can reduce speed or cause connectivity issues.
Is this switch suitable for extending network connections in a conference room?
Yes, the LBS008A is well-suited for conference rooms due to its desktop form factor, USB power option, and plug-and-play operation. You can quickly set it up to provide wired internet access for multiple laptops or presentation devices without complex configuration. Its small size and lightweight design make it easy to transport and deploy temporarily for meetings or events.
| Qty | Price | Available |
|---|
