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-- How to connect cradle if USB ports are full? (http://discussion.visorcentral.com/vcforum/showthread.php?threadid=2804)

I don't have a Visor yet, but I'm getting one soon. I have a question about
how others have configured the synch cradle on a G3, which has two USB
ports. One if occupied by the keyboard and my other one has an adapter
going into it so that I can switch back and forth between a DIN8 plug on my
old printer and modem. What would be the best way to add the synch cradle
without having to crawl under my desk to swap USB plugs?

Thanks in advance for your advice.

Patrick

I just picked up a 4-port USB hub from CompUSA for $30.

if the keyboards that are shipping with the g3's these days are the same as they've been, you actually have 2 more usb ports than you think... right on the keyboard itself. check out the upper right and left hand corners of the thing... unless you're using an old keyboard, or a new, non apple (i.e. macally) keyboard, you should have these extra ports.

i personally use a 4 port hub, what with a printer, scanner, zip drive, cradle, and trackball. but that's me. if you only need one more device, check out the board before dropping the cash.


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matty
i like bananas.

You're right. I'd not remembered that, even though it's right before my eyes...literally! But can you plug in the cradle to one of those? I figured you'd need to designate somewhere in the software either one of the USB ports on the computer box. Does the software somehow search for the cradle?

Thanks again,

patrick

i'm pretty sure the software will find it, though my cradle is plugged into my 4way hub. i'm not at home right now, but if no one else tries it first (hint hint - mac users unite!), when i get home, i'll check it out and let you know.

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matty
i like bananas.

It'll work just fine plgged into the keyboard. The nice thing about USB is that it doesn't care where it is plugged in, as long is it is USB.

Warning on the keyboard ports:

I work in Tech Support, and we've found that at least on the iMacs, the keyboard ports sometimes do not pass enough juice through to run joysticks, Zip drives, etc. Two things can happen if this occurs:

1. The peripheral doesn't work
2. Your keyboard fries

Get a USB hub. It's better, cheaper, and you'll need it for all the other USB stuff you'll eventually buy.


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"Scalpel"
Atomic Hyrax Games

I've found a warning on a couple of my USB devices that the keyboard doesn't offer enough power to the device. I gritted my teeth and bought the Belkin seven port hub (matches my G4!)- and already I only have one port empty (digital camera, scanner, printer, cradle, modem, keyboard/mouse). Probably the best money I've spent on my computer, especially after spending months reaching behind my computer to swap out plugs.