USB (Universal Serial Bus) was introduced way back in 1995. This was supported by big names of the computer world, including Microsoft and Intel. Soon enough, USB devices started to be created but the development was rather slow. But since version 2.0 was invented in year 2000 and was introduced to the public the next year, almost all peripheral devices including memory devices, mouse, keyboards and printers have been based on USB.
Aside from the mouse, keyboards and printers, there are other USB enabled devices that you can plug into your computer. Think of it as upgrading your computers performance may it be on productivity or entertainment. Here are the six devices by which you can give your computer a little kick.
1. USB Hubs – unfortunately a regular computer only has five USB ports. We don’t want to be too greedy but if you want to have so many USB based devices, you need to have more ports. That could be answered by purchasing USB hubs. A USB hub is not only an extension for one USB port, but also can be an extension for four additional USB ports.
2. USB TV Dongle – if you can’t get out of your computer but don’t want to miss their favorite shows, the USB TV Dongle is the perfect gadget for them. Just insert the device in the USB port and connect the cable connection on the other end. Your computer now becomes your cable TV. These devices usually come with a remote control and an installer where you can record the shows as you wish.
3. USB IrDA – instead of connecting mobile phones and infrared enabled devices to your laptops, the USB IrDA will convert your laptop or computer into an infrared enabled device. You can virtually connect to other infrared enabled devices usually within a meter range.
4. USB Gamepad – if you don’t have the latest PlayStation or Xbox, it doesn’t mean you can enjoy games using a gamepad. Download and install games that are gamepad enabled and use this device like you’re playing in a regular PlayStation or Xbox. Although the titles are not the same, you can still have the same enjoyment with this gamepad.
5. PlayStation 2 to USB Cable – if you have a PlayStation 2 and would like to transfer you gaming experience to your laptop, no need to purchase another controller. This device will convert your PlayStation 2 controller into a USB enable gamepad. Prepare to pay a little bit higher if you want to have a USB device that can cater to two PlayStation 2 controllers.
6. USB Modem – for faster internet connection, connect your computer directly to a modem. This will ensure that you don’t have to connect through LAN for an internet connection.
Remember that these devices usually run in Windows 98 or Higher. For Vista, check if the devices are already upgraded to work with Microsoft Corporation’s latest OS.
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Here is a practicle USB device people may not have come across; a footswtich that plugs into your USB port that emulates keyboard functions. There is no software involved. Simply set the minature switches inside the footswitch to the keyboard functions you requiure and you are away. Upto three keys can be emulated. The USB footswitch can be used for eliminating repetitive keying or controling software hot key functions. You can find more information a the following link
http://www.herga.com/foot_switches/?id=83
Regards
Ian
Comment by Ian — February 22, 2008 @ 8:58 am