Can I use a 3rd party USB hub with a SWYTCH A/V USB port?
The Swytch device was initially designed with a sole USB port to support the Rally System, which enables audio and video transmission via one USB cable.
It is essential to mention that the current configuration does not have built-in support for a DSP. However, a third-party USB hub can be added to connect the Rally Camera and DSP. In addition, this will also enable the addition of multiple cameras or other USB devices if they are supported.
A Powered USB Hub can be connected to the USB-A (AV) port on Swytch. Depending on the video source, this will allow automatic audio switching between your laptop and the platform-based computer.
Can I connect a USB Hub to the Swytch?
Logitech does not certify any specific third-party USB hubs. However, they have tested various USB hubs for precisely the use case regarding discrete USB audio and USB video devices and experienced no issues. An example of one of the USB Hubs tested is Amazon Basics 3.0 Powered Hub (https://a.co/d/j5KbAh7).
Active USB Cables
In the above diagram the Rally camera must connect to the HUB with a passive (instead of an active) cable. An active cable will add an additional tier and is not supported.
Active USB cables utilize hub technology, which includes a USB port with signal regeneration circuitry, to serve as signal boosters. They can be placed along extended USB cables to enhance signal strength, which means they are not merely cables but also employ hub technology to increase their effective length.
Caveats and USB Layers
When deploying, make sure not to break the golden rule of USB, which is limited to seven USB layers (Root+5 hub layers+end device). For example, Swytch itself consists of two layers — one layer in the active USB cable between Swytch Hub and Swytch Extender and one layer in the Swytch Hub itself.
For more information on USB Tiers:
This is not a Logitech Supported Solution.
Remember that this is not a “Logitech Supported” solution. This means that the 3rd party pieces of this solution will not be supported by Logitech and they will need to be supported by whoever manufactures that piece or by the integrator.
Other support and notes
- Ensure that the DSP is listed as “supported” by the platform. Check Microsoft, Google and Zoom pages for the best options. Otherwise the HID commands might not work for volume control, mute and any indication lights that are expected
- A USB3.0 hub generally will not provide the 12v of power required for the Rally Camera to operate. It is recommended to power the camera separately with the Logi Power injector and Power supply.
- Power adapter with regional plugs (P/N: 993–001898)
- Power splitter & case (P/N: 993–001903)
More detail about Hub Layers can be learned here
- https://medium.com/logitech-design-guide/usb-tiers-63c69e466091
- https://www.usb.org/documents
- https://www.usb.org/document-library/usb-20-specification
- https://www.usb.org/sites/default/files/USB%203%201%20Link%20Layer%20Test%20Specification%202020%2006%2018.pdf
- https://prosupport.logi.com/hc/en-us/articles/360057402974
