Question about USB hub

[gadgetgirl85]

This may seem like a silly question but I want to buy a USB hub as there are not enough ports for me on my imac. Does it have to be "mac specific" or can I buy any old one?

 

[PlaceofDis]

just about any hub will work. but to be of note: a powered hub is superior to those that are bus-powered, especially if you'll be hooking up devices like iPods that draw a lot of power via USB to charge.

 

[Demosthenes X]

I have the Belkin Tunesync and love it because of the integrated iPod dock. It doesn't provide an adapter for the iPhone/Touch/new iPods as far as I know, but I use mine with my iPhone fine without an adapter. I think I paid just over $20 for mine, which is a steal. Bus powered, five USB ports.

http://catalog.belkin.com/IWCatProductPage.process?Product_Id=255951

I also like the look of the Griffin Simplifi. It only has two USB ports (so a net gain of one...), but it does have a card reader and iPod dock, which is a nice touch.

http://www.engadget.com/2008/09/26/griffin-intros-simplifi-ipod-dock-card-reader-usb-hub/

 

[JNB]

This may seem like a silly question but I want to buy a USB hub as there are not enough ports for me on my imac. Does it have to be "mac specific" or can I buy any old one?

The critical component of the USB moniker is the "Universal" part. It's all good.

+1 for powered, especially if it's going to stay at home on the desk. Not everything needs it, but it doesn't hurt anything, and is essential when you do need it.

I have two Belkin 2.0 7-port stackables, and am really happy with them.