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Kanex Thunderbolt Adapter Expand Apple Connectivity
Kanex has revealed two new adapters, both built to be plugged in to a Thunderbolt interface. The adapters both have a single USB 3.0 output, as well as either a Gigabit Ethernet port or an eSATA port.
These devices, despite being a tad pricy, could be nice solutions for expanding your connectivity on Apple devices, such as either the Macbook Air or the new Mac Pro (Those Thunderbolt ports need a purpose, right?) in case you’ve filled up the present network ports and USB 3.0 ports.
"We are very excited to announce the launch of our new Thunderbolt adapters," said Kelvin Yan, president of Kanex. "We've been working with Intel on the Thunderbolt technology and our customers have been waiting patiently for launch day. We're so thankful for their support."
Power for the device comes via the Thunderbolt port, as these can provide enough current for most devices that you’ll hook up to the adapter.
Pricing for the adapters is set at $79.95 in the US, with European pricing set at €69.95. The adapter with an Ethernet port is available for pre-order, with shipping expected to start in July, while the eSATA model is available immediately.
$80 does seem a bit steep given what Apple sells their TB dongles for, but Apple might be taking a loss on some of those parts.
That's the joy of Thunderbolt unfortunately, especially when gigabit ethernet is available on many Thunderbolt enabled machines, and eSATA is likewise somewhat niche.
That said I'm really glad to see the eSATA model now available; so far we've only had hubs such as the Lacie one, but that's $200 and externally powered, meanwhile one USB3 port and eSATA is exactly what I need =)
