StarTech.com HB31C4AB 4-Port USB-C Hub - 4x USB-A 10Gbps USB 3.2 Gen 2 - Bus Powered - Black
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Product Features
Technical Overview
This USB-C hub operates on the USB 3.2 Gen 2 standard, delivering data transfer speeds up to 10Gbps for efficient file transfers and peripheral operation. UASP support accelerates data throughput for compatible storage devices, reducing wait times during large file operations. The hub shares up to 15W of power across all downstream ports, sufficient for drives, keyboards, mice, webcams, and headsets without requiring separate power sources.
The technical architecture ensures reliable performance across diverse computing environments. Four USB-A ports maintain full SuperSpeed functionality while supporting legacy USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 devices. The USB Type-C host interface provides a secure connection that withstands repeated insertion cycles, with gold-plated contacts maintaining signal integrity.
Relevant factors for this section include Host Interface, UASP Support. 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
StarTech.com engineered this hub to address common connectivity challenges in professional and mobile computing environments. The combination of high-speed performance, compact design, and broad compatibility makes it a versatile solution for expanding USB-C system capabilities.
Driverless Operation
The hub requires no additional drivers for most operating systems, enabling plug-and-play functionality across Windows, macOS, Linux, iPadOS, Chrome OS, and Android platforms.
- Automatic detection
- No software installation needed
- Immediate peripheral recognition
Thunderbolt 3 Compatibility
When connected to Thunderbolt 3 hosts, the hub maintains full USB functionality while leveraging the host's power delivery and data transfer capabilities.
- Seamless integration
- Maintains host features
- No configuration required
Deployment / Use Cases
The HB31C4AB serves multiple roles in professional and personal computing setups. For laptop users with limited USB-A ports, it restores connectivity for essential peripherals while maintaining the slim profile of modern devices. IT departments can deploy these hubs as standardized expansion solutions across diverse hardware fleets, ensuring consistent connectivity options regardless of host system configurations.
In office environments, the hub enables clean workstation setups by consolidating multiple device connections through a single USB-C port. Content creators benefit from the high-speed data transfer when working with external storage drives, while remote workers appreciate the portable design that fits easily in laptop bags. Educational institutions can use these hubs to extend the lifespan of existing USB-A peripherals while transitioning to USB-C equipped systems.
Physical Profile
Measuring 1.70" × 0.60" × 0.70" (43.18 × 15.24 × 17.78 mm) and weighing just 2.20 ounces, the hub maintains an exceptionally compact footprint that occupies minimal desk space. The black finish complements professional computing equipment, while the durable housing protects internal components during transport. Top-mounted ports provide clear visual access and easy insertion, even in crowded workspace configurations.
The physical profile is practical for deployment planning because the dimensions and weight are clearly defined: 0.70" (17.78 mm), 0.60" (15.24 mm), 2.20 oz (62.37 g). This helps confirm rack, shelf, desk, or cabinet fit before installation.
- Width
- 0.60" (15.24 mm)
- Height
- 0.70" (17.78 mm)
- Weight
- 2.20 oz (62.37 g)
- Length
- 1.70" (43.18 mm)
Highlights
- Expands one USB-C port to four USB-A ports with 10Gbps USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds
- Bus-powered design requires no external power adapter for operation
- Compact dimensions (1.70" × 0.60" × 0.70") and lightweight (2.20 oz) for easy portability
- UASP support accelerates data transfer for compatible storage devices
- Backward compatible with USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 peripherals and devices
- Driverless setup works with Windows, macOS, Linux, iPadOS, Chrome OS, and Android
- Thunderbolt 3 host compatible for expanded deployment options
- Durable aluminum and plastic construction withstands daily professional use
- Includes 9.8-inch attached USB-C host cable for flexible positioning
- Backed by StarTech.com's 2-year warranty and 24/5 technical support
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | StarTech.com |
| Manufacturer Part Number | HB31C4AB |
| Brand Name | StarTech.com |
| Product Name | 4-Port USB-C Hub - 4x USB-A - Black |
| Packaged Quantity | 1 Each |
| Product Type | Thunderbolt/USB Hub |
| Technical Information | |
| Host Interface | USB Type C |
| Media & Performance | |
| UASP Support | Yes |
| Interfaces/Ports | |
| Total Number of USB Ports | 4 |
| Number of USB 3.1 Ports | 4 |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Color Family | Black |
| Product Color | Black |
| Form Factor | External |
| Height | 0.70" (17.78 mm) |
| Width | 0.60" (15.24 mm) |
| Length | 1.70" (43.18 mm) |
| Weight (Approximate) | 2.20 oz (62.37 g) |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Environmentally Friendly | Yes |
| Environmental Compliance | Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS),Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH),Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE) |
| Warranty | |
| Limited Warranty | 2 Year |
User Manual
FAQ
What is the maximum data transfer speed of this USB-C hub?
The StarTech.com HB31C4AB supports USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds up to 10Gbps. This high-bandwidth capability enables fast file transfers between compatible storage devices and hosts, significantly reducing wait times when moving large files. The hub maintains this performance across all four USB-A ports simultaneously when connected to a host system with sufficient bandwidth.
Does this hub require an external power adapter?
No, this hub is bus-powered through the USB-C host connection. It draws up to 15W of power from the host system and distributes it across all connected downstream devices. This design eliminates the need for an external power brick, reducing cable clutter and simplifying setup. The shared power allocation supports typical peripherals like keyboards, mice, webcams, and most external storage drives.
What operating systems are compatible with this USB-C hub?
The hub offers driverless compatibility with Windows, macOS, Linux, iPadOS, Chrome OS, and Android operating systems. Most systems recognize the hub immediately upon connection without requiring additional software installation. This broad compatibility makes the hub suitable for mixed-environment deployments where different operating systems may be in use across an organization's hardware fleet.
Can I connect this hub to a Thunderbolt 3 port?
Yes, the hub is fully compatible with Thunderbolt 3 hosts. When connected to a Thunderbolt 3 port, it operates as a standard USB hub while maintaining the host's power delivery and data transfer capabilities. This compatibility expands deployment options to include systems with Thunderbolt 3 interfaces, providing consistent connectivity regardless of the specific host interface technology.
What types of devices can I connect to this 4-port hub?
You can connect any USB-A peripheral including external hard drives, SSDs, flash drives, keyboards, mice, webcams, headsets, card readers, and printers. The hub supports both high-speed storage devices and lower-bandwidth input devices simultaneously. Backward compatibility ensures older USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 devices function properly, though at their native speeds rather than the hub's maximum 10Gbps capability.
What warranty and support does StarTech.com provide for this hub?
StarTech.com backs the HB31C4AB with a 2-year limited warranty and provides free 24/5 multilingual technical support from North America-based teams. This support coverage includes troubleshooting assistance, compatibility guidance, and replacement services if needed. The company's 30+ years of IT hardware experience ensures professional-grade support for business and institutional deployments.
| Qty | Price | Available |
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