Tripp Lite by Eaton U215-002 2-Port USB 2.0 Hi-Speed Printer/Peripheral Sharing Switch - External - Black
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Product Features
Technical Overview
This USB switch operates on the USB 2.0 Hi-Speed standard, supporting data transfer rates up to 480 Mbps for efficient printing and peripheral communication. The device maintains backward compatibility with USB 1.1 standards while delivering improved performance for modern USB 2.0 peripherals.
The switch features two USB 2.0 ports that connect to host computers and one downstream port for the shared peripheral. This configuration ensures reliable data transmission between computers and connected devices without requiring complex network setup or additional software installation.
Relevant factors for this section include Host Interface, Total Number of USB Ports, Number of USB 2.0 Ports. 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
The U215-002 delivers practical advantages for shared workspace environments through multiple switching methods and simplified installation. Users can switch between connected computers using three convenient methods: manual button press, mouse click through included software, or keyboard hotkey commands.
Flexible Switching Options
Choose between manual button control, mouse-click switching via included software, or keyboard hotkey commands for seamless transition between connected computers.
- Manual button for direct control
- Software-enabled mouse switching
- Keyboard hotkey convenience
Automatic Operation
The switch automatically detects print commands and switches to the appropriate computer, ensuring printing occurs without manual intervention when using the automatic switching mode.
- Automatic print detection
- Seamless switching
- Reduced user intervention
Deployment / Use Cases
The U215-002 is ideal for small offices, home offices, and shared workspace environments where multiple users need access to a single USB printer or peripheral. Its compact design and simple installation make it particularly suitable for space-constrained environments that cannot accommodate multiple printers or complex network printing solutions.
Common deployment scenarios include reception areas with two workstations sharing one printer, home offices where family members need printer access from different computers, and small business environments with limited peripheral budgets. The switch also works effectively with USB scanners, external storage devices, and other peripherals that benefit from shared access between computers.
What's in the Box
The package includes everything needed for immediate setup and operation of the USB sharing switch.
Highlights
- Enables two computers to share one USB printer or peripheral
- Supports USB 2.0 Hi-Speed data transfer up to 480 Mbps
- Switch between computers via mouse, hotkey, or manual button
- Automatic switching upon print command detection
- No external power adapter required - USB bus powered
- Easy setup with included optional software CD
- Compact external black form factor
- 3-year limited warranty for peace of mind
- Environmentally friendly design and manufacturing
- Backward compatible with USB 1.1 standards
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Eaton Corporation |
| Manufacturer Part Number | U215-002 |
| Brand Name | Tripp Lite series |
| Product Model | U215-002 |
| Product Name | U215-002 2-Port USB 2.0 Hi-Speed Printer/Peripheral Sharing Switch |
| Product Type | USB Switch |
| Technical Information | |
| Host Interface | USB |
| Interfaces/Ports | |
| Total Number of USB Ports | 2 |
| Number of USB 2.0 Ports | 2 |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Color Family | Black |
| Product Color | Black |
| Form Factor | External |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Package Contents | U215-002 2-Port USB 2.0 Hi-Speed Printer/Peripheral Sharing Switch 2 x USB 2.0 Cables (A/B), 1.5 ft Installation CD Owner's Manual |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Environmentally Friendly | Yes |
| Warranty | |
| Limited Warranty | 3 Year |
User Manual
FAQ
How many computers can share a printer with this USB switch?
The Tripp Lite U215-002 supports two computers sharing a single USB printer or peripheral. Each computer connects to one of the two USB 2.0 ports on the switch, while the printer connects to the downstream port. This configuration allows either computer to access the shared device without needing to physically disconnect and reconnect cables.
What switching methods are available for changing between computers?
Three switching methods are available: manual button press on the device itself, mouse click through the included software interface, or keyboard hotkey commands. The manual button provides direct physical control, while the software options offer convenient switching from the computer desktop. Automatic switching is also available when print commands are detected.
Does this USB switch require an external power adapter?
No external power adapter is required. The U215-002 draws power directly from the USB connection (bus powered), which simplifies installation and reduces cable clutter. This design makes the switch particularly suitable for environments where power outlets are limited or where users prefer minimal cable management.
What data transfer speed does this USB switch support?
The switch supports USB 2.0 Hi-Speed data transfer rates up to 480 Mbps. This speed ensures efficient printing and data transfer for modern USB 2.0 peripherals while maintaining backward compatibility with USB 1.1 devices. The Hi-Speed capability minimizes wait times during print job transmission and peripheral communication.
What peripherals besides printers can I share with this switch?
While designed primarily for printer sharing, the U215-002 works with various USB peripherals including scanners, external hard drives, flash drives, card readers, and other USB devices. The switch handles standard USB communication protocols, making it compatible with most peripherals that don't require specialized drivers or continuous high-bandwidth connections.
What warranty coverage does this product include?
Tripp Lite by Eaton provides a 3-year limited warranty for the U215-002 USB switch. This warranty covers manufacturing defects and ensures reliable performance in office environments. The product is also manufactured with environmentally friendly processes, reflecting the manufacturer's commitment to both quality and sustainability.
| Qty | Price | Available |
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