Elecom keeps things simple with U2H-TC410B wall socket USB hub
By Donald Melanson 
posted Jun 30th 2009 2:42PM
posted Jun 30th 2009 2:42PM
While there's a place for USB hubs that double as a mousepad and calculator, it's sometimes best to just keep things simple, which is what Elecom has thankfully done with its new U2H-TC410B "wall socket" USB hub. Contrary to what that name might suggest, however, this one doesn't actually plug into a power outlet, but is instead designed to be mounted on a wall or the side of the desk and become a wall socket of sorts itself. Apart from that, it's basically just your standard four-port USB 2.0 hub and, as you can see above, it's available in your choice of black or white. Unfortunately, it's not priced like a run-of-the-mill USB hub, with this one running a somewhat hefty $39.99.
[Via OhGizmo!]
[Via OhGizmo!]
looks like an electrical socket
you forgot [/sarcasm]
I'd like actual wall sockets with USB ports built right in.
i agree, i thought that's what i thought this was
Damnit. That's not what this is?
I, too, thought that you thought that's what this was thought to be.
I'm now contemplating an instructable for a decora outlet plate USB hub.
i'd totally mount that into my desk top or create a back edge that it could be mounted into. That would actually be quite convenient.
it looks a lot better than a standard electric socket with its bevelled edges and rounded corners and matte finish :|
i'd pay about 30$ for em, maybe not 40
I like the concept... but won't use it.. cuz I use the laptop.. bet really good...
I'm guessing the thing will live for a few days until some pinhead breaks it by trying to jam a power plug into the it.
Nice. A confusing product. That's JUST what the world needs.
if you're confused by this it's a wonder you're able to even type
it's only confusing if your a _______.
Nice. Another moron that can't read..
This is a pretty damn good idea if I say so myself. The reason I don't like most USB hubs is they stick out like a sore thumb. Where as this badboy is all about being sleek and blending in. I'll take 4.
Nice idea except that I am not about to go cutting drywall and paying 40bucks for a 4 port usb hub....
Why are you cutting drywall? It mounts on top of things.... like a john on a hooker.
It would be way more useful as a USB charger that actually plugged into the wall.
Yes... it could be a great iPhone back sticker.
Running USB through the walls of the house, hadn't thought about that yet.
i knew the EU standardization of cellphone chargers was a big thing and was wondering when someone will come up with this.... but... but... this is way too fast!!!
I don't think you understand the product...
I really like this concept and have been waiting for something like this to appear for ages. Now let's hope it has a more attractive price tag when it hits Europe :)
Wow thats expensive for only four USB ports why not like sixteen or more?
OMG! that's just what I was thinking about when I woke up...
Maybe this could be good as a new standard for the power outlets in the future, just think of it, the house of the future as a great computer with all the things we use being interconnected, however this may require a new usb standard, maybe USB 4.0?.... just dreaming...
Good luck providing standard power with DC 5V.
I don't care about the looks - is there a power only USB charging hub out there? Regular PC hubs don't provide power when the PC is off, even if there is an external power supply.
Given several cell phones with USB connectors, along with iPods, bluetooth headsets, etc, what can I use to charge them all in the family room (or hotel room) far away from a turned on computer?
My usb hub provides power when the pc is off as long as the external power supply is plugged in...
I was really hoping this plugged into a normal outlet to supply power to four USB devices at once without a computer needed but no such luck (currently the best I can find are 2 USB outlet models that block two sockets on a standard North American power outlet).
I would totally get this! I turn on my computer some days just to plug in my iPod touch so it can charge. I can see this become somewhat progressive in terms of the future. I only wish the price was lower. If only it could become the new power outlet standard!
Wow, I could totally charge my laptop WITH my laptop!
I like this. I'd use it on a regular basis. It would clear some of the cords off of my desk.
My computer is right near a wall. Would be cool to stick these on my wall.
Amazing invention indeed.
soon this will be a must in the home.. a usb wall-mount plug to a centralized USB-hub switch connected to your media center. just like how networks run now.
actually this thing triggers ideas.....hmmmmm