Journalists at How-To Geek have detailed what happens when too many devices are connected to a computer through USB, according to an article published on the outlet's website.
Editor Jorge A. Aguilar said he wanted to find out how many accessories and devices could be connected to a computer through USB at the same time. He said he uncovered a hidden limit built into personal computers and learned what happens when that limit is exceeded.
The USB limit explained
Aguilar explained that in theory a computer can support up to 127 connected devices, a restriction of the USB interface itself. The USB protocol uses a branching system limited to seven levels, the article said. Motherboards can also carry their own built-in limits, according to the report.
What happened during the test
In practice, Aguilar found that connecting a large number of devices through USB can cause a computer to overheat and freeze. As an experiment, he used hubs to connect several dozen devices to his own computer. Afterward, he said, the whole system slowed to a crawl. He advised readers not to repeat the experiment, warning it could damage their PCs.
