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USB-C adaptor, camera connector, or hub for IPad Air
I just bought an iPad Air M2 13-inch. It's replacing an older IPad with a lighting connector. But because the new iPad only has USB-C, I can't use my lighting camera connector to interface the iPad with my iConnectivity 4+. I need the USB-A data interface, but also simultaneous charging.
I looked on Amazon, thinking all I had to do was get a similar adaptor, but for USB-C. Not so easy! I ordered one, cheap, but it came in a package that had no branding but said "Made in China. Best Quality. Original." My first question: should I even hook this thing up? I don't trust it.
Or should I get one of those multiple input hubs that attach to the bottom of the IPad. Or something else? Recommendations, please.
The only genuine Apple adapter I can find is $69 and has a HDMI port I don't need.
I could buy a genuine Lighting > USB-C adapter and plug in my old camera connector. Is that asking for trouble? Or is daisy-chaining ok? Will it still power the iPad?
Any suggestions or recommendations? I'll pay what it takes to have a reliable interface, but I don't want to pay more than I have to.
Comments
Hi. Here's my take as another new iPad Air owner.
It is pretty hard to find USB-C adapters with only USB-A and Power Delivery. I suspect that the available chip includes HDMI, so the makers include it. I ordered an Acer USB+HDMI dongle for $24, but test is still pending (long story).
I'd be very wary of the combo adapters that attach right to the iPad. There's a strong risk of damaging the USC-C port. Earlier in the USB-C era, a member here replaced 3 iPads on warranty before realizing his clip-on adapter was the cause.
I definitely wouldn't consider daisy-chaining adapters, USB–>Lightning–>USB-C. It sacrifices any benefits of USB-C, and likely doesn't support Power Delivery (which can use voltages greater then 5V). It might make sense if you were married to an old MFI device with only a Lightning interface, but not otherwise.
Edit: Here are links to the threads on "stick-on" USB adapers:
https://forum.loopypro.com/discussion/42816/another-dead-ipad-pro
https://forum.loopypro.com/discussion/44120/just-killed-another-ipad-pro-looks-like-usb-hub-power-bankrolled-it-what-do-i-do
https://forum.loopypro.com/discussion/45151/dead-ipad-pro-again-that-s-3-f-k-this
What you probably need is a USB C hub with power delivery that also has USB-A inputs. These can be quite inexpensive. Anoyo brand ones seem popular.
Connect the iconnectivity to the hub using USB-A. Get a decent usb-c power supply (Anker has reasonably priced ones) to power the hub.
Ah, thank you for these comments. You've already pointed me in the right direction.
It's good to be warned about the hubs that snap into the iPad. Seemed too good to be true.
Stay out of trouble and get an original Apple adapter for USB-C. There are just loads of cases with people trying different third party stuff out, only to find they’ve actually spent more money than what the original stuff costs in the first place.
Or get one of these, works like a charm and with a long detachable cable it doesn’t put any stress on your USB-C port:
https://uniaccessories.com/products/union-pro-usb-c-8-in-1-hub-60hz
/DMfan🇸🇪
+1 for the UNI-hub. Not using one myself, but I know a few people who do.
I am using this one:
https://www.lention.com/collections/usb-c-hub/products/lention-usb-c-multi-port-hub-cbtpc35h?variant=36034919465120
The long cable is what makes it the best solution for me. Works on Macs PCs and iPads. Using it for ages now and never had any issues, but as always: ymmv
electronicsfordogs
Just a small point regarding the "snap on" USB hubs.
The original that may have fried three iPads didn't have any auxiliary snap on supports. It attached straight to the USB port only. The theories back then were that it could have been applying torque on the port if twisted at all due to the leverage of the case. Or that it could have been static buildup or discharge due to the metal cases right up against each other.
Since then, similar hubs with additional snap on support to avoid twisting forces have emerged. These are different than the old design, and those clips may also provide some insulation.
Are they safe? I have no idea, but it seems like the clips might help. I don't plan to find out the hard way myself, but I thought I'd clarify.
I'm looking at Uni and Lenton hubs on Amazon now. Prices are reasonable--looks like I can get what I need for around $20 (or less). Thanks for the tips.
Question: Do I need USB 2.0? I know I want USB 3.0 for the transfer speed, but my iConnectity 4+ is old and probably 2.0. Any problem with pluggin that in a 3.0 port on a hub?
Nope. 2.0 is fine in a 3.0 port.
Done. I just ordered the Lenton 6 in 1 (thanks electronicsfordogs)--bolstered by the confidence gained from all your recommendations and advice. It has a USB-C data in-port which I'm sure I'll need sooner of later, in addition to the USB-A and PD.
If you have anything else to add to this thread, do it for all the folks who I'm sure will have the same question in the next months.
Any opinions on USB C extension cables other than the fact they can detach if playing live? Just ordered one after realizing my hub would be hanging off the iPad like a dangling arm. Haven't used it yet as my iPad arrives today.
Any drawbacks or performance limitations possible?