PS3 USB hub

[Whitestar]

Hi, I am using a T500RS and a TH8 RS shifter while driving GT6. Those two take up both my PS3 USB ports. Recently I got myself another peripheral (Astro MixAmp) which meant that I had to use my USB hub which had been lying around unused for a while. It is this one: http://www.miniinthebox.com/no/5-port-usb-hub-for-ps3-svart_p252482.html.

The only problem is that when plugging all three into that, the TH8 RS shifter isn't working. Seems to be a power issue. Will I have to get myself a powered USB hub? If so, does anyone have one that they would like to recommend?

Thanks

 

[LeMansAid]

Logical thought, but then considering that the wheel should have no need to draw power from usb, it's basically the mixamp and shifter that are powered by usb. That shouldn't be any different to running a normal controller and mixamp surely.

On a side note: hope you're enjoying the sound. Make sure you check only the Dolby 5.1 box in the optical settings on the PS3, as it doesn't decode DTS. It's always good to go through a setup menu like on the Disney movie discs to ensure that you are getting proper virtual surround. It very clearly demonstrates how positional the audio is.

 

[Whitestar]

Yep, I followed the quick start guide that came with the Astro and only checked Dolby 5.1. I tested in GT6 by turning surround on/off. The positional sound is good. It's obviously not as easy to separate front and back as with my speaker setup, but the Astro does a really good job. I hope the patch comes that will make it possible to customize the EQ.

Anyway, I thought the same as you about the wheel not needing power, but the shifter doesn't work anyway. When I think about it, I'm not sure if that light on the USB hub is even lit when it's on. Hmmm, maybe it's not functioning the way it should. I shall try switching around the USB plugs when I get home.

 

[Dean]

Which port have you plugged the hub into? I read somewhere on the Thrustmaster website, that the wheel should be in the one to the left and the shifter - or hub with the shifter - on the right. Nevertheless, have you tried if you shifter works when the MixAmp isn't connected, using the hub?

 

[Whitestar]

Which port have you plugged the hub into? I read somewhere on the Thrustmaster website, that the wheel should be in the one to the left and the shifter - or hub with the shifter - on the right. Nevertheless, have you tried if you shifter works when the MixAmp isn't connected, using the hub?

If you look at the images in the link above you will notice that the hub is actually connected to both of the USB ports on the PS3 (I have a slim by the way). So the answer is both, I guess. I haven't tested the other thing you mention. Will do as soon as I get home. Thanks.

 

[Rallywagon]

On that hub, try hooking the wheel up to the left most port, and the mixamp and shifter into the two right most ports. You might also want to consider getting a different hub. I believe that the usb on the PS3 only puts out 5v. Splitting it between the splitter and mixamp may not power them both enough. Get one that have a power pack with it. I picked one up for about 10 bucks at a best buy. Has 5 ports and works just fine on the ps3.

Check it. http://www.bestbuy.com/site/searchpage.jsp?id=pcat17071&type=page&st=usb hub&sc=Global&nrp=15&sp=&qp=&usc=All Categories&fs=saas&browsedCategory=&gf=y&cp=2
I have to imagine you can find the same somewhere near you as well. Or off the internet.

 

[sesselpupser]

I think @Rallywagon is on the right track. The USB 2.0 standard dictates that ports should provide 100mA until they are asked by the device to provide more, at which point they can go up to 500mA. That means the three devices you're plugging in might each want 500mA or it could also be that the ports on the USB hub are limited to a non-standard current to prevent over-drawing current from the PS3. If you were to buy, as Rallywagon suggested, an externally powered USB hub you'll most likely be fine because that then removes the 1A limitation of the hub you're using.

 

[Whitestar]

I could not find the one you mention in that list, but the Rocketfish™ - USB Ultra Power Hub looks like it could fit the bill.
I will first give yours and the other's suggestions a go, thanks.

Edit: Yes I suspected power might be the issue.

 

[Whitestar]

On that hub, try hooking the wheel up to the left most port, and the mixamp and shifter into the two right most ports. You might also want to consider getting a different hub. I believe that the usb on the PS3 only puts out 5v. Splitting it between the splitter and mixamp may not power them both enough. Get one that have a power pack with it. I picked one up for about 10 bucks at a best buy. Has 5 ports and works just fine on the ps3.

Check it. http://www.bestbuy.com/site/searchpage.jsp?id=pcat17071&type=page&st=usb hub&sc=Global&nrp=15&sp=&qp=&usc=All Categories&fs=saas&browsedCategory=&gf=y&cp=2
I have to imagine you can find the same somewhere near you as well. Or off the internet.

I just tried to connect the devices like you said. This caused the PS3 to lose it's screen and sound settings! Totally weird!