How do I properly connect a powered USB hub or a USB printer to the xPrintServer?

One can easily damage the xPrintServer by connecting the USB 'A' port to another USB-'A' port. Damage caused by making this improper connection is not covered by the xPrintServer warranty.

The damage caused by this improper connection can cause random and unpredictable behavior in the affected electronics and make subsequent troubleshooting very difficult.

Below are pictures of typical USB-'A' and USB-'B' ports and connectors.

Fig. a) USB-'A' port (host or hub)                           Fig. b) USB-'A' connector (to host or hub)

Fig. c) USB-'B' port (device or peripheral)              Fig. d) USB-'B' connector (to device or peripheral)

As a rule of thumb, a USB-'A' port connects to a USB-'B' port using a USB-'A' to USB-'B' cable.

Depending on the type of device, USB-'A' ports tend to be powered ports (supplying 5Vdc @ 500mA) providing power to the connected USB peripheral device. A USB-'A' port never connects to another USB-'A' port as a rule because the power output in both directions can damage both devices (USB-'A' ports are typically not intended or designed to receive input power).

The xPrintServer has a powered USB-'A' port. Never connect this to another USB-'A' port. It could damage the xPrintServer or the connected device.

When connecting a powered USB hub to the xPrintServer, be certain to use a USB-'A' to USB-'B' cable to connect the powered hub USB-'B' port to the USB-'A' on the xPrintServer. In this scenario, the xPrintServer is considered the USB host, while the powered USB hub is considered the peripheral device.

Some USB printers may have both USB-'A' and USB-'B' ports. Those that have USB-'A' ports allow connection of USB flash drives, or other USB media or supported peripherals. Be careful to not use the USB 'A' port of the printer to connect to the xPrintServer USB 'A' port. Instead, use the printer's USB-'B' port to connect to the xPrintServer USB 'A' port.

[Originally Published On: 05/23/2013 11:30 AM]