Targus Unveils Notebook ChillHub Cooling Pad with USB Hub

October 2004 --Targus Inc., inventor of the notebook case and the preeminent provider of mobile accessory solutions, today introduced the Notebook ChillHub. The ChillHub advances Targus’ popular line of fan-based notebook cooling pads by adding an integrated four-port USB 2.0 hub to its capabilities. The combined features are ideal for notebook users who want to travel with fewer accessories.

The ChillHub addresses the excessive heat generation of today’s high-performance notebooks, which can shorten the life of internal components and circuitry and cause crashes. Notebooks can also overheat to the point where they are uncomfortable to rest on the lap and can damage desk and table varnishes or ad hoc work surfaces such as couches and carpeting.

Targus’ ChillHub alleviates these problems by implementing a two-fan cooling system to silently draw heat from the notebook and prevent the CPU from overheating during use. By circulating and dissipating heat under the notebook, the ChillHub eliminates the need for the notebook to activate its louder and power-consumptive internal fans and improves overall system performance.

“The Targus Notebook ChillHub makes the term ‘laptop’ a realistic proposition, as the user is shielded from the notebook’s uncomfortable heat source,” said Henry Watanabe, product manager for Targus. “With the addition of a four-port hub, users can simply plug in their peripherals for a fully functional mobile workstation where the system stays cool and users remain comfortable.”

The ChillHub’s four-port USB 2.0 hub for accessory expansion supports low-speed, full-speed and hi-speed throughput. Users can attach multiple devices such as a mouse, keyboard or external drive and save desk space by eliminating the need for an external hub. The hub also features overcurrent protection on all four ports. This power management feature will shut down an overloaded port if the connected peripheral requires more power than the hub can supply, while continuing to supply power to the other three ports.

Measuring 11.75 inches by 9 inches by 0.8 inches, the ChillHub fits directly under a notebook and can be powered by the computer using the included upstream cable or by the included AC adapter. The adapter conserves notebook power but can be left behind when traveling, and the on/off switch allows the fans to be turned off manually when desired. Weighing only 18 ounces without the adapter, the ChillHub can be easily carried along with a notebook computer in any standard carrying case.

Targus’ Notebook ChillHub is currently available at national retailers including Best Buy, Circuit City, CompUSA or Office Depot, and on Targus’ Web site (www.targus.com) by searching for product number AWE01US. The ChillHub has a suggested retail price of $49.99 and includes a one-year warranty.

SOURCE Targus