Placement
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External. Card readers and USB hubs connected to a computer as external peripherals, usually via a USB interface. This category also includes compact devices with an ExpressCard interface. Most external models are large enough to accommodate slots for several different types of cards (in the case of card readers) or for several USB ports (in the case of hubs).
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External adapter (connector on the case). Adapters that plug into an external USB port on a computer. They usually have a compact form factor and are the most convenient to transport, however, due to their small size, such card readers are usually designed at best for 2-3 different types of cards, similar in size - there is simply nowhere to place a larger number of slots. This type is rare among hubs - in most cases it is more convenient to use classic external models with a wire. Nevertheless, full-fledged hubs with a connector built into the case still exist.
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Built-in. Devices installed in a PC case in such a way that a set of their connectors is displayed on the front panel of the case. They are designed for use exclusively with desktop computers as a permanent component of the system and do not require frequent reconnections. Although this is technically possible, it is difficult and not justified, and it is generally impossible to use them with laptops. Typically, embedded solutions supp
...ort a fairly wide range of maps. There are internal devices that are installed in a 3.5" slot (for a floppy/disk drive), and models for a 5.25" slot - a standard “seat” for optical drives (for example, DVD).USB А
The number of USB inputs located on the case of the card reader or hub (see "Type"). The number of USB ports that you will have at your disposal after connecting the device depends on this parameter. "Pure" card readers and combined models, usually, have 1,
2 and even
3 USB inputs, while hubs have
4 or more ports.
Power Delivery
The technology allows you to work at higher voltage, thereby increasing the transmitted power.
USB hubs with Power Dlivery can not only charge smartphones faster, but also power more power-hungry devices, such as laptops.
USB cable compartment
A special compartment on the case of the card reader or hub (see "Type"), in which the USB cable is placed during non-working hours. Such models are compact and easy to transport due to the fact that the wire, which tends to get confused and interfere, is hidden inside the device. For objective reasons, only devices with an external connection can have
a cable compartment(see "Intended use").
Material
The main material used for the body of the device.
— Plastic. Plastic is light, cheap, quite practical, incl. has good strength properties. In addition, it allows you to create cases of complex shape and almost any color.
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Metal. As a rule, aluminium-based alloys are used for metal cases. Such cases are much stronger than plastic ones, and also have a stylish appearance. On the other hand, in terms of impact protection, this material has no advantages over plastic, but it costs more, and it can weigh much more.
