usb 1.1 --> 2.0

[sniperrfl1011]

I was just wondering if there is any real difference hardware wise between usb 1.1 and 2.0. It seems they use the same interface, same everything, just the speed is different. Is there anything changed, or is it just firmware/software thats doin it?
also, Is there a way to upgrade 1.1 to 2.0 without changing hardware?

[mushindo]

It's been a while since I've read up on the subject, but if memory serves me, the difference comes from the new chip on the mobo that handles the USB 2.0 instructions. The speed difference between 1.1 and 2.0 can be considerable depending on the device utilizing it. I also don't believe it would be possible to upgrade 1.1 to 2.0, as it is hardware constraining more than anything else.

[sniperrfl1011]

ic...but if there are special instructions for 2.0, then how can devices all be backwards compatible with 1.1 ports?

[mushindo]

All aren't backward compatible. Most are though. As said though, it's been a while since I've read up on it, so I may not even be saying anything correctly So, I'll leave this to someone else. Maybe I'll do a google and brush up on it later.

[Gospel]

I put my go-plug in your socket.





Are any devices making use of FireWire 800 or whatever it's called?

[EGGO]

If you want to upgrade your USB 1.x to USB 2, they do sell expansion cards if you use a notebook, as for desktops, you pretty much need the case and mobo for that.

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[polobunny]

Some video camera use Firewire 800 and some external hardrive use i too. It's faster than usb2.0. Mushindo is right, it all depends on the chip. But, most chip can handle 2.0 and 1.1 because they have 1.1 instructions and 2.0 instructions.

[sniperrfl1011]

interesting...i looked around, and htere are some pcmcia cards that have usb2.0
However, i checked the speed of pcmcia, and it was significantly lower than the 480 of usb2.0
Does that mean that even if i upgrade to usb2.0 that way, it will still only go at the 100 something (cant remember the amount now) of the pcmcia?

[Vivi]

2.0 is faster than 1.1 thats the only dif

[sniperrfl1011]

so what makes it faster? is it hardware or software?

[EGGO]

Hardware

[Norgus]

I believe the chip on your motherboard has to support it (duh!) and the USB2 devices probably require a higher grade wire.

I have usb 1.1/2.0 ports (6) and 2 or 3 IEEE1394 (firewire) ports which I doubt I'll ever use.

[sniperrfl1011]

Originally posted by Norgus
I believe the chip on your motherboard has to support it (duh!) and the USB2 devices probably require a higher grade wire.

I'm asking, though, if the chip on your motherboard can be taught to support it trough firmware or driver upgrades

[polobunny]

No.