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Can You Use a USB Splitter on a PS3?

Owning a Sony PlayStation 3 usually involves connecting several USB-enabled devices into your game system, including controllers and the PlayStation Eye webcam device. This can be a problem for owners of the PS3 Slim, which contains only two USB ports. But you can buy a USB hub, or splitter, to accommodate more plugged-in devices.

Hub Functions
- The more devices you plug in, the more USB ports you'll need.
  
  If you want to connect more than two controllers or other devices into your PS3 Slim, or if you have used up your older model PS3's USB ports, purchase a USB hub. Some hubs have splitter cables with a port on each cable; others are bigger and rectangular in shape and feature several ports, plus an AC power adapter that plugs into a wall. Plugging a hub into a PS3 allows one USB port to support multiple devices.
Using a Hub on Your PS3
- Some games require four or more devices to plug into a PS3.
  
  Games such as "Rock Band" require at least four USB ports, so one connected USB hub is necessary to play. If you're using the PlayStation Move, a type of motion-based controller, the player will need to plug in the PlayStation Eye. Two-player PlayStation Move games can use at least five devices connected at once to the PS3, making a USB hub invaluable.
Choosing a USB Hub or Splitter
- Choose a powered USB hub that plugs into a wall outlet, reducing the power strain on your PS3. Also, make sure the hub supports USB 2.0, which has a much faster data transfer rate than USB 1.0. Hubs are available at electronics stores, most department stores and through online vendors.

PlayStation 3