This hub allows you to connect up to four USB devices through a single USB port on your computer.

“So what?,” you’re probably saying, “there are dozens of 4-port USB hubs that do that.”

However, what makes the Bend-a-Hub distinctive is its literal flexibility plus its two specialty connectors; one of which can adjust to a 90-degree angle for better accessibility — able to be oriented either horizontally or vertically, making it ideal for connecting a flash thumb drive or iPod. Moreover, another of its four USB ports folds out to reveal a mini USB connector of the sort used by many digital cameras, mobile phones, and PDAs. The Bend-a-Hub’s flexible form factor makes it easy to accommodate a variety of larger USB devices.

It may also be possible to charge devices through the mini USB port if the connecting device supports charging through a mini USB connector. The unit works with both USB 2.0 and USB 1.1 ports and supports both Mac OS X and Windows (2000, XP, Vista).

The Bend-a-Hub’s flexibility makes it convenient to roll it up and tuck it in your pocket, laptop case, or backpack for road warrioring, and it weighs just an easy-to-carry 1.8 ounces.

Note, however, that there is no provision for self-powering using an AC power adapter, so the device is dependent upon whatever amount of power your computer is able to supply through a USB port. The amount of power output by many computer USB ports may get spread a bit thin with multiple devices attached, especially on certain Mac laptops, including recent Intel models.

The Bend-a-Hub is nicely finished, looks well-constructed, and the cables that connect the ports and plug to the central distribution module are generously sized with husky anti-fatigue collars where the cables enter the port and plug modules.

While it may look a little odd, the Targus Bend-a-Hub offers substantial versatility advantages over conventional USB hubs, especially for road warrioring, with the caveat above-noted regarding bus-powering. The only thing I found not to like about this product was that the female USB port modules were a bit snug, requiring more effort to insert and remove than I would prefer, but that will probably improve with repeated use.

The USB 2.0 4-Port Bend-a-Hub with Mini USB Adapter is 9″ in length, weighs 1.8 oz, and sells for $19.99.

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It’s not necessarily true, however, that being the most amusing iPod also makes it the “best portable device for gaming”, as Steve Jobs has claimed. One thing it lacks, when compared to dedicated platforms like the DS and the PSP, is game variety. Developer ZodTTD hopes to help broaden the scope of iPhone/iPod touch gaming by bringing popular FPS Quake to the platform.

To date most iPhone/iPod touch games have been puzzle and casual titles, with some notable (and successful) exceptions like RPG port Vay. The platform has yet to see many offerings that appeal to core gamers. Reviews for more ambitious games like Kroll and Star Wars: The Force Unleashed reveal that while players are impressed with the hardware capabilities of the iPhone and iPod touch, titles to date have not been living up to their full potential in terms of gameplay quality and longevity. If it is accepted by Apple (it was submitted by the developer last week), a working version of Quake on the iPhone would go a long way towards proving to core gamers that the device is a true contender to established rivals like Sony and Nintendo.

According to the developer, Quake will be a free download for all iPhone and iPod touch users. Controls are screen-based, as accelerometer control was found to be unwieldy and unsuited to Quake gameplay. The game is played in landscape mode and features full audio support. ZodTTD also makes the ambitious claim that future releases will include network play, downloadable mods and additional content. The reason for Quake’s original success was due largely to its multiplayer mode and customizability. It’ll be interesting to see if these same features will make it a hit on the iPhone/iPod touch as well.

View the original post by ZodTTD and actual gameplay footage here.

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