In Use:
When plugged in and connected to a computer, a green light at the top of the hub indicates that the device is ready for action. I connected it to a system running Xandros Linux and another running Windows Vista, and it worked just fine in both cases (despite Vista not being listed in the specifications) with a flash drive, an external hard drive, and a Bluetooth adapter. Transfer tests conducted in Windows Vista using a USB flash drive showed that the hub was virtually invisible, as it did not impact the speeds.
With the hub fully loaded with small items (flash drives, Bluetooth adapters) the unit stands up just fine. It would occasionally fall over while plugging / unplugging devices, but not while left alone. When devices with cables were connected to the USB ports, it would occasionally fall over without any user interaction. Cables would slip, or the balance of weight would shift from long cables laying on the desk, and it would just flip onto its side. While it looks cool standing up, laying down may be more practical. One simple solution might be for Hiyatek to include a self-adhesive disk of Velcro to attach between the base and your desktop.
 
One other issue is that squeezing seven ports into such a small space means that the ports are all very close to each other. The images above illustrates what it looks like fully loaded, and that oversized devices might not fit with items in adjacent ports.
Conclusion:
Searching the Internet for a place to buy the HB-8700, or just about any other Hiyatek product, doesn't turn up much in the United States. While I was not able to find this hub with a Hiyatek label on it, I did find it with a Rosewill badge on it at Newegg.com for $24.99 . Checking out all of Newegg.com's 7-port USB hubs reveals that $24.99 is about the going rate. You can definitely find one for less money, but the price is competitive.
If you find yourself contemplating what to unplug each time you want to use a different USB device, perhaps it is time to pick up a hub. A unit like the Hiyatek HB-8700 will provide you much greater connectivity without taking up much space, while offering the convenience of a vertical or horizontal installation. If you can find one for yourself, the Hiyatek HB-8700 7-Port USB hub is definitely a recommended product.
Pros:
» Compact and lightweight
» Attractively styled
» Add seven USB ports to just about any system while taking up minimal space
» Supports Linux, Mac, and Windows computers (even Vista, despite not being mentioned)
Cons:
» Oversized devices may not fit next to each other in tightly spaced ports
» Prone to tipping over
» US availability?
Special thanks to Hiyatek for providing the Hiyatek HB-8700 7-Port USB Hub to Bigbruin.com for review!
Please drop by the Bigbruin.com Forum and feel free to post any comments or questions.
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