USB decoration

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A USB decoration is a decorative device that uses the

or other host. In addition, some lightweight devices (e.g., a small lamp on a gooseneck stalk) use the USB connector itself for mechanical support.

History

Decorative

.

USB interface

Many USB decorations do not use the communications features of the USB bus, or fully comply with USB standard power discipline. This can interfere with the purposes for which the USB bus was designed, especially if the device suddenly attempts to draw the full 500 mA of power nominally available. The default power consumption is only 100 mA, which should not impact the computer's PSU if a device is suddenly connected without identifying itself first. A newly connected device is supposed to then use the USB protocol to communicate a request for more DC power, if needed.

Often, several decorations are connected to a single USB hub, which is limited to 400 mA if it has no external power connection and is drawing all its power from a host computer. With each device drawing 100 mA, it is therefore only possible to run four low-power decorations.

If instead a USB hub has an external

, it may be able to support much higher power loads. In many cases, the powered hub may not even need to be connected to a computer host, but can serve as a stand-alone power source for USB decorations that need only DC power.

Decorative usage

USB decorations may have no useful functionality other than aesthetic ornamentation. For example, lights, lighted cables, displays, miniature disco balls,^[1] aquariums,^[2] terrariums,^[3] waterfalls,^[4] and pole dancers ^[5] are all available in USB-powered versions.

Arguably, there are many USB-based decorations embedded in existing products—

when not in use.

A similar concept exists in the form of decorations that are powered by

to work on 12 volts with a simple resistor, in which is the electrical opposite of converting a light-up ornament to a DIY USB decoration.

Functional semi-decorations

Some USB decorations have a non-passive and at least nominal practical purpose. Nightlights, cooling fans, typing speedometers,^[5] a beverage chiller,^[6] and nodding dogs that guard internet connections^[7] are all examples of USB semi-decorations.

in his influential book, Learning from Las Vegas: the Forgotten Symbolism of Architectural Form.

Although these functional devices are not pure USB decorations, they still have prominent decorative aspects. Usually these types of devices are simple modifications of ordinary designs, with most or all of the power used for the main function, not for the decoration.

See also

• Laptop cooler

References