question about extension usb ports

[JFRRACING]

i noticed yesterday when i was at the store there was a usb hub that had to be plugged into the wall. what is that for and what is the difference between that and the one that only plugs into an exsisting usb port ? can someone explain this ?

[mawipafl]

Originally Posted by JFRRACING

i noticed yesterday when i was at the store there was a usb hub that had to be plugged into the wall. what is that for and what is the difference between that and the one that only plugs into an exsisting usb port ? can someone explain this ?

From what I understand, there are two types of hubs: one that runs its power from your computer and the other that is powered separately through an outlet. The latter will be plugged into a wall socket AND into your USB port on your computer.

[mensaguy]

Originally Posted by JFRRACING

i noticed yesterday when i was at the store there was a usb hub that had to be plugged into the wall. what is that for and what is the difference between that and the one that only plugs into an exsisting usb port ? can someone explain this ?

That's the one you want. The USB devices are powered from the wall adapter instead of from the PC. Why? Just plug a USB hard drive into a laptop and read the error message saying there was a power surge on the USB port. Keep that load off your PC and power the devices through the USB hub. Cost is a little more, but it will perform better.

[JFRRACING]

Originally Posted by mensaguy

That's the one you want. The USB devices are powered from the wall adapter instead of from the PC. Why? Just plug a USB hard drive into a laptop and read the error message saying there was a power surge on the USB port. Keep that load off your PC and power the devices through the USB hub. Cost is a little more, but it will perform better.

the ones i was looking at there was only like a 6 dollar difference between the two. so i guess i'll go with the powered one. thanks for your help