USB to LAN Ethernet External Network Card with USB Hub - VLB161-100-3

The VLB161-100-3 is a practical and affordable external network card that combines an Ethernet port with a built-in USB hub. It's designed to solve a common problem for many modern laptops and devices that lack an Ethernet port, offering a stable wired internet connection alongside additional USB connectivity.

Here's an overview of its key features:

• USB to Ethernet Adapter: The primary function of this device is to provide a wired Ethernet connection via a USB port. This is extremely useful for ultra-slim laptops (like many Ultrabooks or older MacBooks) that have omitted the traditional RJ45 Ethernet port to save space. It allows for a more stable and often faster internet connection compared to Wi-Fi, especially in areas with poor wireless signals or when large file transfers are involved.

• 10/100 Mbps Ethernet Speed: The VLB161-100-3 supports Fast Ethernet speeds of 10/100 Mbps. While not Gigabit Ethernet (1000 Mbps), it's sufficient for most common internet activities like Browse, streaming standard definition video, and general office work. It supports both Half-Duplex and Full-Duplex modes for optimized data transfer.

• Integrated 3-Port USB 2.0 Hub: Beyond just providing an Ethernet port, the device also functions as a USB hub, offering three additional USB 2.0 ports. This is a significant convenience, as it helps to alleviate the common issue of limited USB ports on many thin and light devices. You can connect peripherals like a mouse, keyboard, USB flash drive, or external hard drive simultaneously.

• USB 2.0 Connectivity: The hub itself connects to your computer via a USB 2.0 interface. This means the total theoretical bandwidth for all connected USB devices is 480 Mbps. While the Ethernet port is 10/100 Mbps, the USB 2.0 connection defines the overall data transfer speed for the hub functions.

• Plug-and-Play Compatibility: Most modern operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux) will recognize the device automatically without needing separate driver installations, making it easy to set up and use.

• Compact and Portable Design: The VLB161-100-3 is typically made of plastic, making it lightweight and small in dimensions (around 85 x 24 x 17 mm with a 180mm cable). This makes it highly portable and easy to slip into a laptop bag for travel or on-the-go use.

• LED Activity Indicator: It usually includes an LED indicator to show network activity, providing visual confirmation of data transmission.

In summary, the VLB161-100-3 is a practical and cost-effective solution for users who need to add wired Ethernet connectivity and expand their USB port options on devices with limited ports. While it doesn't offer the latest Gigabit Ethernet or USB 3.0 speeds, its combination of features makes it a reliable and convenient accessory for everyday computing needs.