USB is a "Must Have" Feature of New PCs

If you've read the reviews and personal computer ads lately, you've probably noticed that Universal Serial Bus functionality is routinely mentioned as a "must have" feature of new PCs. It would appear that it's starting to become a USB-compliant world, and you'll want to be ready.

The good news is that new PC models from major manufacturers that feature the Pentium® processor with MMX™ technology are also designed with USB-compliant Intel chipsets. Specifically, Intel's 430HX/VX/TX PCIsets and the 440FX PCIset feature an integrated USB host controller. The Intel 430TX PCIset brings USB to mobile systems for the first time.

In addition, the release of the Microsoft Windows* 95 operating system that's installed by most PC manufacturers in new systems also includes full host driver support for USB. The result is that most new PCs on retailer shelves now come with one or two fully functional USB ports. Of course, these systems also ship with conventional serial ports, to support the gradual transition to USB technology.

If you have any questions about whether a new PC supports USB, contact the PC manufacturer for details.

Not only are USB-compliant PCs available now, but new PC peripherals are also beginning to appear. Numerous product announcements have already been made, and a significant number of peripherals, from digital joysticks and keyboards to audio speakers and monitors, are now under active development. By the end of 1997, PC consumers should have a growing list of USB-compliant peripherals from which to choose.

You can tell if you have the USB-compliant version of Windows 95 by right-clicking on the "My Computer" icon on the Win95 desktop. Choose "Properties." USB requires Version 4.00950B or later to operate.