September 2005


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Last Updated
10/12/2005 04:31 PM

Official Newsletter of the Tampa Bay Computer Society www.tampa-bay.org

 

 

 

 Ask The Expert - USB 1.0 & USB 2.0
Compatibility

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Ask The Expert - USB 1.0 & USB 2.0 Compatibility 

(authorinfo)


My brand-new computer has several USB jacks, but I can't tell if they are USB version 1 or USB 2. If I buy a USB Flash Drive, do I have to match what's on the computer?

Linda

Hi Linda,

I'll give you the good news first: most new computers come with a minimum of 6 USB 2.0 ports on them. ALL USB 2.0 ports are "backwardly compatible" with USB 1.0 & USB 1.1 devices. This means that you can safely purchase ANY device with a USB connector, and it will work with your computer.

Now for the bad news... wait, there isn't any. You see if you have a USB with your computer - it just won't work at the faster speed of 2.0.

Hmmm, the news seems to just get better. Let's say that you've already purchased a version 1.0 jump drive (or thumb drive if you prefer), it will STILL work on your new computer's USB port - it will just work at a slower speed.

I love it when there isn't any downside!

Doc

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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