4 Port USB 2.0 Device Server Compatible Various USB Devices

by Silex Technology

Product Details

• Product Dimensions: 10.2 x 8.5 x 2.5 inches ; 10.1 ounces
• Shipping Weight: 1.8 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Shipping: Currently, item can be shipped only within the U.S.
• ASIN: B00022FD0I
• Item model number: SX-5000U2
• Average Customer Review: 3.2 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (6 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank:
  • #25 in Electronics > Computers & Add-Ons > Networking Products > Device Servers
• Date first available at Amazon.com: July 7, 2004

Product Description

NETWORK USB 2.0 HI-SPEED

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

1.0 out of 5 stars Make sure to check the compatibility list before buying, January 14, 2006

By 

Phil (Louisville, KY) - See all my reviews

Bought the SX-5000U2 to allow my wife to use my HP PSC2110 all in one from her Powerbook over our network. The product descriptions I read on various sites talked about it being compatible with all in ones. I had to return it because I went through the set-up process fine until reaching the last step where you connect to the device. It just would not connect, double-checked all the connections and everything, had my firewall disabled, no dice. Uninstalled and reinstalled, same problem.

At that point I discovered that Silex does not have a toll-free support line - only a toll number (absurd given the average wait times on those things, wouldn't you say?) or e-mail. While searching the net to see if anyone else had this problem, I came across a compatibility listing (http://www.silexamerica.com/us/support/printserver/pricomsx5000u2.html) and was shocked at how VERY short it was - there were only a handful of HPs on there (no PSC 2110 of course). The USB ports also felt cheap and flimsy to me.

Even though there was nothing wrong with my PSC 2110, I decided to get a network capable model. Between the inadequate support and very limited compatibility, I would recommend people avoid this product.

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Complicated to install but works great, September 15, 2006

By 

G. P. "GAP" (Los Angeles, CA USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: 4 Port USB 2.0 Device Server Compatible Various USB Devices (Personal Computers)

I bought this to connect two home computers to two network printers. The installation is complicated and the setup guide is not very helpful. I was a little worried about technical support because Silex is not exactly a household name and I wasn't sure who or what I'd get on the phone. But I have to say the technical support was awesome. Ben, the service representative, actually took over remote control of my computer. Don't ask me how he did it, but he had the device up and running in no time. The connection is super fast and everything is working great going on two weeks. I would highly recommend this device based on how it works and the technical support I received.

5.0 out of 5 stars Perfect product - if your needs match..., May 2, 2008

By 

Michael O. Tjebben "motjebben" (Research Triangle Park, NC, USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: 4 Port USB 2.0 Device Server Compatible Various USB Devices (Personal Computers)

The Silex SX-5000U2 is an excellent product that allows me to share my Canon multi-function printer/scanner/copier (the MP530) and a Maxtor one-touch FAT32-formatted hard drive over my network with NO hiccups what-so-ever.

NOTE that many people have varying degrees of success with the product, because not everything appears to be compatible with it.

I was fortunate in that I read those reviews and then corresponded, by email, with Silex to make sure that I had devices that are compatible.
The Silex support personnel responded quickly and with accurate information.

My setup therefore works great!

I recommend that if you are interested in this product you either contact Silex FIRST to make sure what you have will work with it -OR- tailor your setup by purchasing stuff that is known-compatible with the device. But keep in mind that the 5000U2 supports much more than what is presently listed at the Silex site. Hence, it is really best to contact Silex support if there is any question.

The set up was easy, even though, at the time I set mine up there was no Vista-compatible documentation, even though there ARE Vista drivers.

It works GREAT!