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