PS3 Media Hub Score: 89% Developer: Nyko Device Type: Accessory

Function: Have you ever run out of USB ports because of all of the controllers you need to charge? Or maybe one of your precious ports is taken up by your PSP and you have a few more items you want to hook up. Well, that's where Nyko's PS3 Media Hub comes in. The Nyko PS3 Media Hub is designed to not only add 3 USB ports to your sleek black system, but it also provides a media slot that can take in either standard SD Cards or Memory Sticks. Both the extra ports and the media slot are good if you have one of the PS3 models that has only a pair of ports and no media bay.

Performance: The PS3 Media Hub both works really well and is a snap to install. Attaching the device to your PlayStation 3 is as simple as sliding in the appropriate adaptor (one for the 40GB model and one for the 20, 60 and 80GB models), and plugging it into the left/bottom most USB port. There is only a slight difference in the two adapters. The 40GB adapter's pins that allow the unit to lock into the PS3's vents are closer to the front of the adapter, which allows it to snap into that model's slightly different chassis a little better. The Media Hub is designed to fit in only the USB port to the outside of the system. The male USB plug extending from the Media Hub is positioned to the right of the device so that it will line up flush with the System's left side (or bottom when turned vertically). As for using the device - my PS3 had no problems with me just plugging it in and using it as if the system had always had those extra ports and slot. Once the memory card was put into the PS3 Media Hub, the pictures and videos that were on the card showed up in the PS3's menus as you would expect.

Features: Connect 3 Additional USB Devices Easily Snaps onto the Console Powered by the PS3 Works with the PS3 in Vertical or Horizontal Position Matches Finish of the PS3 Media Card Reader Slot Supports SD Cards and Memory Sticks

Drawbacks & Problems:: There aren't a whole lot of issues with the PS3 Media Hub. In fact, the only real thing that should be considered is frequency of use. In the couple of years that I've had my PS3, I have rarely used its built-in media slots, so the only real lift I can see is that it gains you a couple more USB ports. If you have a PS3 that has only two USB ports, then this can definitely be a good thing, especially if you find yourself running out of available ports frequently. So while there isn't anything functionally wrong with the device, and it is easy to pop on and install, you still might want to seriously consider if its something you will use frequently enough to buy it.

-J.R. Nip, GameVortex Communications AKA Chris Meyer