Received today and can not get the hub to power an external Apple USB CD/DVD Player. Will power my Wireless Trackball and Will NOT power my StarTech 4 Bay eSATA/USB3.0 to 2.5/3.5" HDD Docking Station.
Does this product need to be return or is there a cure for the problem?
Thanks for posting with your issue. Connecting the Apple SuperDrive via a hub is not supported. Please see my blog post here for additional details: http://plugable.com/2013/01/10/plugab…
I suspect that things will work normally after you remove the SuperDrive from the hub. Please let me know if that isn’t the case- the firmware upgrade mentioned in my post above for the 812 could be relevant. I’m working on this post now.
Best wishes-
Jeff Everett
MCITP Enterprise Support Technician
Plugable Technologies
For public record, we’re working with Hank privately to resolve his issues.
Also, please be aware that Apple’s SuperDrive does not work when connected to a hub:
"The SuperDrive is designed exclusively for use with MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, and Mac mini’s that do not have a built-in optical drive. The SuperDrive must be directly plugged into the computer’s USB port, and cannot be used if connected to a USB hub.” From: http://support.apple.com/kb/HT2801
This is because the SuperDrive requires 1100 milliamps, substantially more than allowed by the USB specifications that hubs are designed to meet.
As a result, the Apple SuperDrive will only work when connected directly to your Mac.
I hope that this helps other users who are frustrated when their SuperDrive doesn’t work when connected to a hub!
Best wishes-
Jeff Everett
MCITP Enterprise Support Technician
Plugable Technologies
I have to tell you that working with Jim at Plugable Technologies has been nothing short of Excellent! They handle my problem with fantastic service and all has been corrected. I would not hesitate to use this firm again.
Thanks to all at Plugable for you great service and know that I am very pleased with my purchase.