Recently Newer Technology announced a new compact USB 2.0 hub. The hub has a few interesting features with a compact size and rear-facing ports. With seven ports in total, two ports are on the back of the hub, which is really cool idea. On our setup, for example, we keep the ports facing forward for easy access for iPhone, iPods, camera sync, Bluetooth headset, etc. The rear plugs are really handy for any larger storage or printers which would require running cables across the work surface.

The other advantage is the hub is pretty small and fits nicely under and iMac or Apple Cinema display. The hub size is also handy for on the go with your laptop.

The device promises to deliver 500 mA to each port, which it seemed to do just fine. This is desirable for power-hungery USB devices such as bus-powered drives and device charging. The one downside, however, is 500 mA is short of Apple's fast charging 1100 mA USB ports on newer Macs. As a result, the iPad won't charge when the screen is active, nor will devices charge as quickly as possible. We still need to keep at least one USB port on the Mac open for a 30-pin sync/charge cable.

The Newer Technology 7 Port Powered USB 2.0 Hub is compatible with both USB 2.0 and 1.1 devices, and offers data speeds up to 60 MB/sec. Is available now for $27.95.