One of the problems I've seen with USB hubs is that they're difficult to use if you have USB devices that take up too much space. In other words, the actual "device" portion of the USB device is too wide, and prevents you from using all of the USB ports of your USB hub. To address this problem, Elecom has introduced a new line of USB hubs that feature "separate" connectors.

Elecom Corporation will release two USB hubs, which uses separate type connectors so they do not interfere with other ports. There is the 4-port type "U2H-M4B" series, and the 2-port type "U2H-M2B" series, and each will be available in four colors: silver, black, graphite, and white. All are priced at 2,100 yen.

Supported operating systems are Windows 98, Me, 2000, XP, as well as Mac OS 8.6 ~ 9.x, and Mac OS X -- when using USB 2.0, Windows 2000 (SP4), XP (SP1 or above), or Mac OS X 10.2 and above are required.

Each port is independent with its own cable, making it easier to connect devices that are frequently unplugged and plugged or wide devices.

The interface is USB 2.0 and 1.1, and bus power is supported. The power supplied to each port is under 100mA, and the total between of all ports is below 350mA. The length of each cable from the body is 70mm. The weight is 110g.

Inspired by:
http://pc.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/2006/0209/elecom.htm

Press Release:
http://www.elecom.co.jp/news/200602/u2h-mxb/index.html