Librem 5 Dev Kit | USB-C Hub

Playing with the Librem 5 dev kit and exploring USB-C hub connectivity.

This video showcases early development hardware for the Librem 5 Linux phone, specifically testing USB-C hub functionality.

USB-C Hub Testing

The video demonstrates connecting a USB-C hub to the Librem 5 development kit:

• Hub detection and initialization


• Connected peripheral recognition


• Power delivery through the hub


• Data transfer capabilities

Why USB-C Matters

USB-C connectivity is crucial for a modern Linux phone:

• Convergence: Connect to external displays for desktop mode


• Peripherals: Use keyboards, mice, and storage devices


• Charging: Fast charging and power delivery


• Docking: Full desktop experience with a single cable

Development Kit I/O

The Librem 5 dev kit allowed testing of:

• USB-C alternate modes (DisplayPort, etc.)


• USB hub functionality


• Power delivery negotiation


• Driver compatibility with various peripherals

Convergence Vision

One of the Librem 5's key features is convergence - the ability to use the phone as a full desktop computer when connected to a monitor, keyboard, and mouse. Testing USB-C hub functionality on the dev kit was essential for validating this vision.

This early testing helped ensure that USB-C hub support would work reliably on the production Librem 5 phones.

Watch on YouTube