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Old 02-17-2005, 04:50 PM   #8
tw
Read? I only know how to write.
 
Join Date: Jan 2001
Posts: 11,933
USB is for connecting short distances (typically less than 10 feet) to adjacent peripherals. It is slower but provides local flexibility.

Ethernet is for networking (typically to a communication device up to 100 meters - 300 feet - away).

USB is for talking to an adjacent device. Ethernet is for talking to the world. Yes, each can also be used for the other's function. USB can talk to the world and Ethernet can talk to local devices. But it is better to use each for what it is really intended.

USB is not a good alternative to networking. USB can encounter complications if used in the Windows 98 domain.

BTW, they were called 'plug fests'. The USB consortium would sponsor a 'plug fest' where peripheral manufacturers would come and test their USB peripherals in computers also using other USB devices. This is how the USB consortium eliminated problems that were so common in the days of Windows 98.
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