Quite a long thread; I'm sure I'm the millionth person to ask this, but what's the current thinking re: host mode? Is it likely to be possible using an external power supply?

If it's just a wiring and driver issue I'll have some free time in the next couple weeks to look into it.

Alternatively, anyone know if the Belkin USB over 802.11 hub speaks some common protocol supported in the kernel? Anyone know of a more portable (small / battery powered) version?