JoyNet Gameport Hub

JoyNet Gameport Hub

**Manufactured By: Alphadactyl

** (877) 780-1998

Retail Price: $119.95

• $10 S & H

**(only available through direct sales)

Review Date: 12-24-98

If your anything like me you have more than one controller. Maybe you even enjoy multiplayer games on a single system but don't have the means to properly connect them. Alphadactyl has been listening to our wants and complains and came up with the JoyNet Gameport Hub. Not only does it allow you to easily switch controllers but it works with any digital; including force-feedback (i.e. the entire Microsoft line, Logitech digitals, Saitek, etc.), MIDI or analog controller. Anything that works directly through your gameport will work with the JoyNet.

The hub allows you to easily connect and switch between 4 gameport controllers or MIDI devices on your system. You can individually select any one device or use analog controllers in combination for 2,3 or 4 player setups (if supported by the game). There is no more pulling you system out to reconnect you preferred control devices. The unit nicely sits atop a tower case for easy access. Each port has a selection button that activates the controller. To use multiple controllers simply press the buttons of the controllers at the same time.

With my previous A/B switch I could not use my flight control system (a Thrustmaster TopGun, CH Throttle, CH Pro Pedals and Interact FlightForce Plus) through the switch because the signal was weakened enough to drop the connection. This setup works fine when connected with the JoyNet.

I literally tried the JoyNet Gameport Hub with every controller I own and it worked with each. I also tried it on a PCI soundcard and an motherboard integrated port (ISA). Although I usually don't play multiplayer games on a single system I tried 2 standard Gravis GamePads in DOS with NHL 96. Everything worked fine.

Features -

• 4 gameport connections
• six foot, 15 pin extension cable
• 4 selection and one reset button

System Requirements-

PC system, gameport.

Price -

The JoyNet Gameport Hub is not the cheapest switch on the market. Then again, its is the only switch that works with digital and force-feedback controllers also allowing multiplayer setups.

Performance -

Life is much easier with the JoyNet connected to my system. I can now do all of my testing and playing with convenience. Signal loss due to extension cables was not an issue unlike other switches I tried.

Setup -

If you have successfully connected your joystick in the past you can easily set up the JoyNet. Use the supplied cable to connect to your gameport, plug the other end into the hub and connect your controllers.

Software -

No software is necessary to use the unit.

Documentation -

The JoyNet comes with basic installation and use instructions. The instructions describe the possible modes and describe the available functions.

Overall Rating -

The JoyNet Gameport Hub is a highly recommend controller tool. It will make your life much easier if you own and use more than one controller.