USB direct cable network query

[jona]

I vaguely remember reading somewhere that direct (USB) cable
networking requires a specific USB cable - not just a regular one.
I also vaguely remember thinking that that would be due to the
fact that USB also provides power to the connected item, which
would need NOT to be the case when connecting to another
machine. Can someone shed some light ? The limited reading
I have done online doesn't really stress this point out very much
except that most just want to sell a cable with software - and I
sure don't need to buy the software.

I've got a second-hand laptop which I may purchase if it can fullfill
my needs. Unfortunately it hasn't got a network port.

TIA
Jona.

 

[kony]

I vaguely remember reading somewhere that direct (USB) cable
networking requires a specific USB cable - not just a regular one.
I also vaguely remember thinking that that would be due to the
fact that USB also provides power to the connected item, which
would need NOT to be the case when connecting to another
machine. Can someone shed some light ? The limited reading
I have done online doesn't really stress this point out very much
except that most just want to sell a cable with software - and I
sure don't need to buy the software.

I've got a second-hand laptop which I may purchase if it can fullfill
my needs. Unfortunately it hasn't got a network port.

TIA
Jona.

The bottom line is that USB isn't a peer-to-peer connection, which is
what you need. These "special cables', aren't really considered just
special cables, they're a networking device that just "happens" to
have a USB cable coming out of each end.

Instead of limiting yourself to this single, non-flexible networking
device, buy two USB network adapters and a crossover cable or a
hub/switch.

Another more costly but desirable alternative would be be a wireless
card for the laptop, wireless access point or [a router than can
properly act as one, depending on your needs].



Dave

 

[Phrederick]

I vaguely remember reading somewhere that direct (USB) cable
networking requires a specific USB cable - not just a regular one.
I also vaguely remember thinking that that would be due to the
fact that USB also provides power to the connected item, which
would need NOT to be the case when connecting to another
machine. Can someone shed some light ? The limited reading
I have done online doesn't really stress this point out very much
except that most just want to sell a cable with software - and I
sure don't need to buy the software.

I've got a second-hand laptop which I may purchase if it can fullfill
my needs. Unfortunately it hasn't got a network port.

The cost of one of these "special" cables would be just as much as a USB or
PCMCIA network adapter. Just get a regular network adapter that will be
useful on your next PC.

 

[stacey]

I vaguely remember reading somewhere that direct (USB) cable
networking requires a specific USB cable - not just a regular one.

Best to just buy a USB network adapter, they work great and can be used on
desktops as well as laptops.

 

[jona]

The cost of one of these "special" cables would be just as much as a USB or
PCMCIA network adapter. Just get a regular network adapter that will be
useful on your next PC.

Firstly, thanks to everyone for their responses. As it turned out I managed
to source a USB laplink cable (on loan) which will tide me over till the
PCMCIA network adapter gets here late next week. At almost 300 bucks
(Namibian monopoly money) it's not much more expensive than the laplink
option....... like you said. Living on the ass-end of the planet has it's
'electronic' drawbacks, but that's another story.