USB Tips #4



*1.   WARNING: WINDOWS 98 SAFE MODE UNSAFE FOR USB             
    
When Windows 98 thinks you have a conflict with an IRQ or driver,
it boots up in safe mode, a restricted running mode with a 
reduced number of device drivers and options. Unfortunately, no 
USB device works under safe mode, either. This means your USB 
mouse and keyboard won't work, and you might be stuck with no 
way to use your system. The solution: Keep a legacy keyboard 
and mouse around, so that you can still run in safe mode. 
           

*2.   USB TUTORING BY APPLE             
    
Apple Computer offers a short course on USB technology, complete
with illustrations and test questions on its site. Whether you 
use an iMac or a PC, this free tutoring will help you get up to
speed on this new bus. Check out the course at  

http://www.pcworld.com/r/tw/1%2C2061%2Ctw-usb0317%2C00.html  


*3.   PC PHONE             
    
Turn your USB-capable PC into a phone management center with the
Mitel Personal Assistant USB phone. The phone and its software 
allow you to call screen, use Caller ID, create voice mailboxes,
and build a contacts database. Browse the Phone Zone at 

http://www.phonezone.com 

for more information. 
           

*4.   BETTER THAN A PASSWORD             
    
Fingerprints make for much better security safeguards than 
passwords. You can never forget your fingerprint, and no one 
else can use your fingerprint to gain access to your computer. 
Digital Persona, at 

http://www.digitalpersona.com 

now offers a USB fingerprint scanner called the U.are.U. For 
$149, you can protect your PC against intruders. 


*5.   CABLE CONCERNS             
    
Every few weeks, we are reminded that USB technology is still in
its infancy. The latest hiccup in USB: problems with cable 
compatibility. It seems some USB cables are not fully compatible
with the USB specification, and they can cause problems when you
daisy chain several USB devices onto your system. Double-check 
any USB cables you buy, particularly if they aren't included 
with a USB peripheral device. Ask your cable manufacturers if 
their cables are fully compatible with the USB spec and if you 
can return any cable that causes you trouble


*6.   WOES OF MULTIPLE USB DEVICES             
    
Many users report errors when they install multiple USB devices.
The main problem: Installing a new USB device may stop existing 
USB devices from working correctly. Whenever you Plug and Play 
a new USB device, double-check that the other USB products 
attached to your system are still functioning. In most cases, a
reboot solves the problem. After the first installation of a new
device, the "hot swap" process should work smoothly.


*7.   USB NETWORK INTERFACE         
 
3Com has introduced its new $69 USB Network Interface product. 
The device lets you connect USB-capable Windows 98 systems to 
an Ethernet network by simply attaching the product to a PC's 
USB port. There's no need to open the PC and install a network 
interface card. 

3Com's home page is  

http://www.3com.com
   