Add High-Speed Ports for Turbocharged Peripherals
The latest high-performance peripherals--including scanners, external drives, and DV camcorders--are shipping with new interfaces. USB 2.0 and FireWire offer higher speeds than older USB 1.1 ports, and they're hot-pluggable. Only the newest PCs ship with on-board USB 2.0 or FireWire ports, but you can easily add them to a system by inserting a PCI card.
FireWire ports, which mostly work with DV camcorders and external drives, transfer data at up to 400 megabits per second. USB 2.0 is the successor to USB 1.1, which has been a standard for years and has been popular for connecting keyboards, mice, and printers. USB 2.0 can transfer data at rates up to 480 mbps, compared with USB 1.1's 12 mbps.
USB 2.0 peripherals are likely to grow more common, but you'll need FireWire for video editing. A combination FireWire/USB 2.0 add-in card, such as the Adaptec DuoConnect shown in step 1, can add both to your PC. For about half the price, you can choose one or the other.
One caveat: You'll need Windows 98 SE or a later version; earlier versions do not support FireWire or USB 2.0.
1. Install the card
Turn off your PC, unplug it, and open the case. Use an antistatic wrist strap to avoid damaging components. Find a free PCI slot and remove the slot cover. Insert the card and fasten it down with the screw. If your card has a socket for powering USB or Fire-Wire peripherals, find a power supply connector and connect it to the card. If no connectors are free, you'll need to purchase a Y-connector. Replace the cover on the PC and plug it in.
2. Install the drivers
Turn on your PC. If you're running Windows 98 SE or Me, the Add New Hardware Wizard will appear before Windows starts. Choose Search for the best driver for your device (98 SE) or Automatic search for a better driver (Me).
In Windows XP, the Found New Hardware Wizard will appear after Windows starts. In the opening screen, choose Install the software automatically.
All three versions of Windows have built-in drivers for FireWire and basic USB components. Those drivers will be installed automatically; you'll see a number of different messages flash across your screen. (You may be asked to insert your original Windows CD-ROM.) If you're installing USB 2.0 ports, at some point you'll see a message indicating that Windows was unable to find a driver. Insert the driver CD-ROM that came with the board into your drive, and click Next. When indicated, click Finish and restart your PC.
3. Install additional software (if any)
Some cards come with additional software, such as video editing applications for FireWire cards. If your package includes any, install it now.
4. Plug in your peripherals
Attach your USB and/or FireWire components to the card. You'll normally see a screen pop up as Windows recognizes the drive, camcorder, and so on. Some peripherals require additional drivers. Follow the directions that appear on the screen, or check the manual.
5. If you have problems
Check the status of the new add-in board. In Windows 98 SE and Me, go to Start, Settings, Control Panel, double-click the System icon, and choose Device Manager. In XP, go to Start, Control Panel, open Performance and Maintenance if you're using Category view, double-click the System icon, choose the Hardware tab, and click Device Manager.
If you see entries with yellow exclamation points, run the hardware troubleshooter.
6. What about your original USB ports?
When you install USB 2.0 ports, the original USB 1.1 ports on the back of your PC will work as before. You can still use them for slower peripherals that don't need USB 2.0.
The Top Down
Benefits: Hook up high-speed peripherals.
Cost: Single-interface cards, $30 to $60; dual-interface cards, $80 to $100; single-interface cards for laptops, $100 to $125
Expertise level: Beginner to intermediate
Time required: 30 to 45 minutes
Vendors: Adaptec, ADS Technologies, Belkin, Iogear, Keyspan, Lava Computer Manufacturing, SIIG
Stan Miastkowski is a PC World contributing editor. Contact him at stan_miastkowski@pcworld.com. Click here to see past Step-By-Step columns.