USB 2.0

[Invader Bugs]

ok, i have a Lite On SOHW-812SX, and it says it is USB 2.0 compatible, but also works with USB 1.1, which is what i have. so is there a way to update the USB 1.1 to USB 2.0 without going and opening up the computer and taking the USB out and putting in a new one?

[Faustus]

If your XP and you plug it in it will say "You have plugged a high speed device into a low speed port" or something like that if its on USB 1.1. IF you do not get that message then its likely working in 2.0 mode.

Also if you can burn at any speed above 4x CDr mode then likely your 2.0 mode.

[redwudz]

If you do have USB 1.1, I would install an upgrade USB 2.0 PCI card. It's easy to do and you will have much faster access to the external drive. (This is assuming you are using XP and SP1.) You should be able to pick one up for less than $20US.

[DVD_Ripper]

ok, i have a Lite On SOHW-812SX, and it says it is USB 2.0 compatible, but also works with USB 1.1, which is what i have. so is there a way to update the USB 1.1 to USB 2.0 without going and opening up the computer and taking the USB out and putting in a new one?

Or if that drive is firewire compatible you may be tempted to go that route since it may support that DV camcorder you have or plan or getting.

[Invader Bugs]

If you do have USB 1.1, I would install an upgrade USB 2.0 PCI card. It's easy to do and you will have much faster access to the external drive. (This is assuming you are using XP and SP1.) You should be able to pick one up for less than $20US.

wait, do i have to open up my computer for that? and once i do get USB 2.0, will older USB devices still work?

[Faustus]

If you do have USB 1.1, I would install an upgrade USB 2.0 PCI card. It's easy to do and you will have much faster access to the external drive. (This is assuming you are using XP and SP1.) You should be able to pick one up for less than $20US.

wait, do i have to open up my computer for that? and once i do get USB 2.0, will older USB devices still work?

Perfectly

[Invader Bugs]

well, you still didnt answer if i would have to open my pc and put it in

[stiltman]

well, you still didnt answer if i would have to open my pc and put it in

If your PC didn't come with USB 2.0, then yes, you'll have to install some hardware to get USB 2.0

[redwudz]

Invader Bugs: It's not hard to install a PCI card. Look here for a tutorial: http://compreviews.about.com/library/weekly/aa-diy-pcicard.htm. It would help if you filled out your computer profile, but assuming Win XP and the SP1 upgrade, it would be pretty easy. Let us know what machine you have and I'm sure someone here could help you out.

[Invader Bugs]

alright, well, i filled out my computer profile with what i know, but i dont know where to find all of the other information. my computers a couple years old

[RabidDog]

Yes you will have to open your computer
All usb1.1 devices will work fine on a USb2.0 port

If you buy a plugin PCI card make sure your motherboard can handle it.. if your computer is very old it may not. IT is very easy to install PCI cards ... if not hire a technician to come round and fit it for you, ($$$$) or bring your pc to an upgrade centre ($$). either of which will cost many times MORE than the cost of the card.
$20 usb 2.0 PCI card $80 tech $40 upgrade centre

[hech54]

I put a 2.0 card in my computer recently to add an external Hard Drive. With XP you will have no problems. Most likely you wont be able to change your existing USB ports to 2.0 but they will still work. I wanted to change my original USB ports to 2.0 also but that appeared impossible so hey....I have 10 ports all together. 4 of them are the new 2.0.

[MeDiCo_BrUjO]

If you do not have the USB 2.0 on your PC, go for it!, grab a screwdriver and start your first installation. It's not difficult. Good luck!

[Capmaster]

I would just add the USB 2.0 card, but use USB1.1 for mundane, slower USB devices like the mouse, keyboard, WiFi, printer, etc. Save the USB2.0 ports for video capture, HD interface, and other demanding devices you might have.

[Invader Bugs]

yea, i just need the USB 2.0 for my External DVD Burner, which i use a lot.