in message
are there any switch-type hubs out there?
USB operates similar to SCSI. Devices get enumerated and each gets
its own channel (i.e., device number). You don't need switching.
It's already builtin. That still won't increase the max bandwidth for
the USB controller back in the PC to which you are connecting the USB
hub and/or USB devices.
See "The USB Process", section 4, at
http://computer.howstuffworks.com/usb.htm.
Each USB controller will have 2 ports and why you see them in pairs.
Both share the same controller and so both are limited by the
bandwidth of that controller. If you want more USB bandwidth then
check if your mobo has more than one USB controller. There may be
unused USB headers on the mobo for more controllers. Otherwise, get a
USB daughtercard to stick in a slot.