HELP USB Hub for Coolpix 4300 (1 Viewer)

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Brian Robson

• Jan 2, 2004

• #1

As a newcomer to Digiscoping i took my first steps yesterday and now have a few pics to try and download to my computer.

The basic manual states not to use a USB hub, as i only have one USB port i had intended to buy a hub , can anyone tell me why a hub would be a problem ?as i thought they were just a multiple outlet.

In anticipation Brian.

 

Andy Bright

Administrator

Staff member

• Jan 2, 2004

• #2

Hi Brian,
I haven't seen any warnings against using a usb hub before with a digicam, maybe it's a power thing? I would presume it's o.k. to use a hub if you haven't got anything else running from the ports on the hub when downloading.
As ever, I'd recommend a card-reader to download images....but they still use usb ports.
Hopefully someone else can enlighten us to why a hub isn't recommended.
Regards and good luck with your new camera.
Andy

 

IanF

Moderator

• Jan 2, 2004

• #3

I use a hub myself and have never had any difficulties. I used to have the camera connected directly to the hub until I got a CF card reader. Now I just have that connected to the hub.

 

Alastair Rae

London birder

• Jan 2, 2004

• #4

You would only have a problem if you ran lots of power-draining usb devices on the same hub. If you're sharing the hub with devices with their own power supply, or that are switched off, that shouldn't be a problem.

 

Grousemore

Senior Member

• Jan 2, 2004

• #5

I don't use a hub and hadn't noticed the warning on my 4300.But I would reiterate the advice to use a card reader.It is easier and without one, I can readily see how the port on the 4300 could become damaged/worn with repeated use.

 

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Brian Robson

• Jan 2, 2004

• #6

Ty all for replying i only have a scanner on my usb port, and also cant understand why i cant use a hub.

Your points about a card reader seems to indicate this is a method you all seem to prefer so i will investigate this further.

Grousemore i found the warning on page 29 of the quick start manual.

Ta all for your replies

Brian.

 

Andrew Rowlands

Well-known member

• Jan 3, 2004

• #7

Perhaps the warning compares USB to Firewire (1394)?

Not used Firewire much, but USB is flakey; too dependent on operating system stability?

A hub, if it complies wth the USB standards, should be fine; the trouble may be that there are some hubs that may not comply; or - that the hardware you are connecting may not comply - with the standards.

If you have a modern PC (or MAC) and a PSU that is adequate; plug it into the machine; leave the hubs for mice etc.

Don't believe all they tell you!

Andy.

 

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Brian Robson

• Jan 3, 2004

• #8

Again ty for all your help, talked to a guy at comp shop who also was puzzled but suggested it could be a power issue.

Anyway downloaded a few pics taken through my scope and i dont think i will be posting anthing soon on the forum, i have a lot to learn thats for sure.