Powerbook G4 (DVI): USB2.0 card recommendations

#1 Thu, 18 Sep 2008 - 22:05 68kMLA

Although I use FW most of the time, high(er)-speed USB is getting to be a real need. USB 2.0 cards abound around here. Are there any that are particularly good (or, conversely, so bad that they should be avoided)? I see no shortage of on-line opinions elsewhere, but I rather trust the folks here for more useful recommendations.

#2 Thu, 18 Sep 2008 - 23:15 68kMLA

Any generic OHCI compatible USB 2.0 card will work; in fact all the vanilla cards I've put into my PB G4 867 have been detected right out of the box under OS X.

JB

#3 Fri, 19 Sep 2008 - 02:12 68kMLA

Thanks, Byrd -- it's good to know that you haven't had any bad experiences. I see generic cards around here for $5-10 pretty regularly. At those prices, I should just try one. If it doesn't work, it can always serve as a nice anatomy lesson...

#4 Fri, 19 Sep 2008 - 09:18 68kMLA

I've heard that those cards based on NEC chipsets have the best performance and compatibility under OS X. I'm using an Adaptec AUA-1420A, (NEC-based) and have had no problems with it. It even has a nifty plug for a power adapter for supplying juice to devices requiring in excess of 500mA (such as bus-powered 2.5" hard drives, etc).

I use it in every PowerBook (from 2400c to original G4) that requires either USB 2.0 speeds, or USB capabilities period. It even works under OS 9.

#5 Fri, 19 Sep 2008 - 19:42 68kMLA

Thanks for that recommendation -- an external power jack is a definite plus. I'm sure I can dig up an Adaptec around these parts. Now I know what to look out for.

Thanks again!