My computer doesn't have enough USB ports for all the gear. Besides the PT, PP and FS, there is the Yoke and Throttle Quadrant (for FSX). Add in a keyboard and mouse and there just aren't enough ports. Reaching around behind the computer to swap plugs ain't gonna work with the desk cubby it sits in. And there haven't been any issues with either the 4 port Dlink or the 7 port Belkin powered hubs.