uhubctl is a command-line utility designed to manage the power states of individual USB ports on USB hubs that support per-port power switching. It addresses the issue of insufficient power delivery to peripherals connected to USB hubs by allowing users to selectively power off unused ports. The program leverages libusb to communicate with the USB hub and control its power management functions.
uhubctl distinguishes itself through its focus on granular power control, offering a more refined solution compared to simple hub enable/disable tools. Its lightweight design and command-line interface make it suitable for scripting and automation. Comprehensive documentation and a wide range of supported hubs contribute to its value. The project offers device detection and offers clear error messages enabling the user to figure out problems easily.
- Power Control: Enables enabling/disabling power to individual USB ports on supported hubs.
- libusb Integration: Utilizes libusb for direct communication with USB hubs.
- Command-Line Interface: Provides a straightforward command-line interface for easy operation.
- Broad Compatibility: Supports a wide variety of USB hubs with per-port power switching capabilities.
- Device Detection: Automatically detects compatible hubs and displays their details.
- Configuration Options: Supports various configuration options like power persistence and autostart.
- Developer Friendly: Easy to install and use, with clear documentation and a simple API.
uhubctl is a mature project with active development. Recent commits indicate ongoing maintenance and bug fixes. The project has a solid user base and community support. Documentation is relatively complete, and the codebase is well-structured, suggesting a long-term maintenance plan.
uhubctl benefits users who want to optimize power delivery to their USB devices by controlling power to individual ports on compatible hubs. It's valuable for users experiencing power issues with peripherals or wanting to conserve power. It provides a precise and effective alternative to relying on the hub's overall power switch or manually unplugging devices.