Synchrotech has begun shipping a 13-port USB 2.0 hub designed to replace multiple hubs with one simple device. The hub provides the host computer with 13 additional USB 2.0 ports and allows flexible tiered configurations, according to the company. The hub -- priced at $45 -- includes a power supply with a 4-amp capacity as well as a USB 2.0 cable to connect to a host computer and a 1-year warranty.

Synchrotech's new hub runs in a self powered mode while providing over current protection at each of its downstream ports, and is fully backward compatible with the older USB 1.1 standard.

"Providing thirteen downstream ports, this hub features plug and play installation and transparent operation," Synchrotech said.

Reliable transmission for 4.5-meter USB cable segments accompanies support for high speed (480Mbps), full speed (12Mbps), and low speed (1.5Mbps). The hub automatically detects the speeds of connected devices as expected, providing connectivity for a total of 127 devices.