StarTech.com 16-Port Industrial USB 3.0 Hub 5Gbps, Metal Housing, DIN/Surface/Rack Mountable, ESD Protection, Dual-Host

The StarTech.com 16-Port Industrial USB 3.0 Hub provides a robust and reliable solution for expanding connectivity in demanding professional and industrial environments. Engineered with a durable steel housing, this hub supports high-speed data transfer rates of up to 5Gbps across 16 USB-A ports. It features a versatile design that accommodates dual-host switching, allowing seamless toggling between two connected computers, and includes advanced ESD protection to safeguard sensitive equipment from static discharge.

Advantages

This industrial-grade hub is built to withstand rigorous use, featuring a rugged metal chassis that protects internal components from physical impact. The inclusion of Level 4 ESD protection ensures operational stability in environments prone to static electricity. With its flexible mounting capabilities, including DIN rail, surface, and 1U rackmount options, it integrates easily into diverse infrastructure setups. The dual-host functionality simplifies device management by allowing two host systems to share the same peripheral set, while the support for BC 1.2 charging provides efficient power delivery to connected devices.

Suitable for

• Industrial automation and control systems
• Server rooms and data centers
• Professional equipment setups requiring multi-port expansion
• Production lines and factory environments
• Workstations requiring shared access between two computers

This hub may not be suitable for consumer-grade home office setups where the industrial-grade features, such as terminal block power inputs and DIN rail mounting, are unnecessary. Additionally, it is not intended for high-power applications that exceed the 120W shared power budget across all 16 ports.

Key specifications

• 16 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports
• Data transfer speeds up to 5Gbps
• Dual-host switching capability
• Rugged steel housing
• Level 4 ESD protection (15kV air/8kV contact)
• Supports 12-24V DC power via terminal block or barrel connector
• BC 1.2 charging support (120W shared)
• Mounting: DIN rail, surface, or 1U rackmount

To use the hub, connect it to a compatible 12-24V DC power source using either the terminal block or the barrel connector. Connect your host computers to the USB Type-B ports using the provided cables. Once powered, you can connect your USB peripherals to the 16 available Type-A ports. Use the manual rocker switch to toggle between the two connected host computers as needed. For advanced monitoring, download the StarTech.com Connectivity Tools application to utilize the USB Event Monitoring utility.

What to consider before purchase

• Ensure your power source meets the 12-24V DC requirement as a power adapter is not included.
• Verify that your installation space supports the chosen mounting method (DIN, rack, or surface).
• Confirm that your peripherals are compatible with USB 3.2 Gen 1 standards.
• Check if the 120W shared power capacity is sufficient for the specific charging requirements of your connected devices.

For optimal performance and longevity, ensure the hub is properly grounded when installed in industrial settings and use the provided screw-lock connectors to maintain secure data links in high-vibration environments.