Can multiple computers access a Drobo or DroboPro by using a USB hub?
Multiple computers can certainly access a Drobo’s data by using DroboShare (with 1st or 2nd generation Drobo only) or by making use of operating systems’ file-sharing features. (See the appropriate Data Robotics’ User Guide for guidance on sharing data.) However, multiple computers can’t access Drobo or DroboPro’s data by using a USB hub. The USB protocol allows for multiple senders but only one receiver. Therefore, multiple Drobo devices can be connected to and communicate with one PC, but multiple PCs can’t connect to one Drobo device simultaneously. This is a basic limitation of the USB protocol. In addition, the physical connection of the USB cable only allows one host computer connected to Drobo, DroboPro, or any other external USB device at one time. Conversely, you can have multiple Drobos or DroboPros connected via different USB ports to one host computer. Each Drobo or DroboPro appears with a unique drive letter.
