USB 2.0 Sharing Switch ATEN US4224 — 2x Host to 4x Device, 480 Mbps, Black

The ATEN US4224 is a USB 2.0 sharing switch that lets two host computers share up to four USB devices using USB Type-A connections. Designed for environments where multiple systems need access to the same peripherals, the unit supports USB 2.0 data transfer rates up to 480 Mbps, is bus-powered via USB, and comes in a compact black plastic housing with a USB Type-A to Type-A cable included.

Advantages

The US4224 provides straightforward device sharing between two computers without the need to swap cables or install additional software. Its bus-powered design removes the requirement for an external power adapter, and the compact enclosure with accent lighting is space-efficient. The built-in pushbutton enables quick switching of connected devices, while USB 2.0 throughput up to 480 Mbps supports common tasks such as file transfer and peripheral operation.

Suitable for

• Sharing printers, scanners, external storage and other USB peripherals between two PCs
• Small offices and home workstations where multiple computers must access the same devices
• Environments that require a compact, bus-powered USB switch without additional drivers

When it may not be suitable

This USB 2.0 sharing switch does not provide USB 3.x transfer speeds, so it may not be suitable for workflows that require sustained high-bandwidth transfers above 480 Mbps, such as large-volume backups or some high-speed external drives. It also uses Type-A connections and is bus-powered, so setups that require dedicated external power or different connector types will need adapters or a different product.

Key specifications

• USB standard: USB 2.0
• Maximum data transfer rate: 480 Mbps
• Host interfaces: USB Type-A (for two host computers)
• Device interfaces: USB Type-A (for up to four USB devices)
• Power supply: bus-powered via USB
• Housing material and colour: black plastic
• Cables included: USB Type-A to USB Type-A
• Quantity per pack: 1 unit

How to use

Connect the two host computers to the switch using the host USB Type-A ports and attach up to four USB devices to the device ports. Power is supplied via the connected host(s) over USB, so no external adapter is required. Use the built-in pushbutton to switch control of the connected peripherals between the two hosts. Devices are hot-pluggable, and the switch is designed to work without drivers on mainstream operating systems such as Windows, macOS and Linux.

What to consider before purchase

• Verify that required peripherals use USB 2.0 or are compatible with USB 2.0 transfer rates
• Assess whether bus-powered operation is sufficient for all connected devices
• Confirm that Type-A connectors match your devices or plan to use adapters if needed

Recommendations

Place the switch on a stable surface near both host computers and route USB Type-A cables to avoid strain on connectors. For devices that draw higher power, test operation with your specific peripherals to ensure reliable bus-powered performance; if necessary, connect devices to a host that can supply adequate USB power or use externally powered peripherals.