24.5 Our Picks
USB 1.1 ports are ubiquitous on recent
motherboards and systems, and USB 2.0 ports will become increasingly
common on new motherboards and systems. If you buy a new system or
motherboard in 2002, if possible buy one that provides USB 2.0 ports.
By the second half of 2002, nearly any Intel-based motherboard or
system you are likely to want will have USB 2.0 ports. USB 2.0
availability in AMD-based systems may lag somewhat, but adding a USB
2.0 expansion card to an AMD-based system is a simple matter.
The good news is that upgrading older systems to USB 2.0 is
relatively easy and inexpensive. We have used numerous USB port cards
and hubs—everything from high-quality, name-brand components
from Adaptec and ADS Technology to no-name Pacific Rim garbage. Our
advice? Buying cheap USB port cards and hubs is a mistake. In our
experience, name-brand components cost little more, are more
reliable, and are much less likely to cause device conflicts.
For specific recommendations by brand and model, visit:
- http://www.hardwareguys.com/picks/usb.html
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