OWC Thunderbolt Hub - 40Gb/s - Grey

Expand your connectivity with the OWC Thunderbolt Hub, offering four Thunderbolt (USB-C) ports and...

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Product Information

Full details

The OWC Thunderbolt Hub is designed for Mac and PC users needing to expand their connectivity options beyond a single Thunderbolt port. Its key benefit is providing four high-speed Thunderbolt (USB-C) ports and one USB-A port, enabling simultaneous connection of displays, storage, and accessories without compromising performance. A minor caveat is that while it supports a single 8K display, it requires specific Thunderbolt 4 host capabilities for full 5K/6K/8K resolution.

All features

ColourGrey
Model Part NumberTB4HUB5P
BrandOWC

Extended Product Information

FAQs

Can I connect three 4K displays to this hub?

No, the OWC Thunderbolt Hub supports up to two 4K displays or one higher resolution display (5K/6K/8K).

Does the hub come with a power adapter?

The hub is powered by the Thunderbolt connection to your computer. It does not include a separate AC power adapter.

What is the difference between the Thunderbolt ports and the USB-A port?

The four Thunderbolt ports offer the full 40Gb/s speed and capabilities of Thunderbolt technology, including display output and high-speed data transfer. The single USB-A port is a USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gb/s) port for standard USB devices.

Can I connect bus-powered SSDs to this hub?

Yes, you can connect up to three bus-powered Thunderbolt devices, including SSDs, directly to the hub.

Will this hub work with my iPad Pro?

Yes, the OWC Thunderbolt Hub functions as a USB-C hub for compatible iPads, allowing you to connect accessories like keyboards, mice, and external displays.

How do I safely disconnect my drives connected to the hub?

OWC provides free Dock Ejector software, which allows you to safely disconnect all connected drives from the hub with a single click.

What is the data transfer rate of the Thunderbolt ports?

The Thunderbolt 4 ports on the hub support data transfer rates of up to 40 Gbit/s.

Troubleshooting

Device not recognized

Ensure the Thunderbolt cable is securely connected to both the hub and the computer. Try a different Thunderbolt port on the hub and computer. Restart your computer and the hub.

Display not working or flickering

Verify that the display is connected to a Thunderbolt port on the hub. Confirm the display resolution is supported by your host computer and the hub. Try a different Thunderbolt cable.

Slow data transfer speeds

Ensure you are using a certified Thunderbolt cable. Check that the connected storage device is capable of the expected speeds. Close unnecessary applications that may be consuming system resources.

Hub is not providing power to connected devices

Verify that the hub is connected to a powered Thunderbolt port on your computer. Some bus-powered devices may have specific power requirements; try connecting fewer devices or using a powered USB hub for those devices.

Computer does not recognize the hub upon startup

Check your computer's BIOS/UEFI settings to ensure Thunderbolt devices are enabled. Update your computer's Thunderbolt controller drivers and operating system.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Significantly expands Thunderbolt port availability.
  • Supports high-resolution displays for demanding visual workflows.
  • Flexible connection management with independent 'tree branch' chains.
  • Enables multiple bus-powered Thunderbolt devices.
  • Continues to charge devices while the computer is sleeping.
  • Universal compatibility with various Thunderbolt and USB standards.

Cons

  • Requires a Thunderbolt 4 host for optimal 5K/6K/8K display performance.
  • Does not include a power supply for the hub itself, relying on host power or bus power for connected devices (though it charges connected devices).
  • The included USB-A port is USB 3.2 Gen 2, not Thunderbolt.
  • ClingOn cable stabilizers are sold separately.

Setup, Compatibility & Care

Setup:

  1. Connect the OWC Thunderbolt Hub to your computer's Thunderbolt port using a certified Thunderbolt cable.
  2. Connect your Thunderbolt devices (displays, storage, etc.) to the hub's Thunderbolt ports.
  3. Connect any USB-A devices to the hub's USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A port.
  4. For optimal performance, ensure your computer's operating system and Thunderbolt drivers are up to date.

Compatibility:

  • Operating Systems: Mac OS X 11.0 Big Sur and later; Windows 10 x64 and later.
  • Host Ports: Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, USB4.
  • Devices: Thunderbolt 3, Thunderbolt 4, USB4, USB 3.x, USB 2.0 devices.
  • Displays: Supports up to two 4K displays or one 5K/6K/8K display (requires Thunderbolt 4 host for higher resolutions).
  • Tablets: Compatible with USB-C iPads and Chromebooks.

Care:

  • Clean the exterior of the hub with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth. Avoid using liquids or abrasive cleaners.
  • Ensure proper ventilation around the hub; do not place it in enclosed spaces that could restrict airflow.
  • Keep all cables connected securely to prevent accidental disconnections, especially in busy environments.