Hardware Reference
In-Depth Information
PS/2-to-USB adapters (and also the reverse) to swap keyboards and mice between those two
interfaces.
Newer Mac computers, including the MacBook Pro and iMac, have a new
type of high-performance multiuse connector called Thunderbolt. It can be
used for everything from hard drives to input devices to displays.
Assessing the Risks Involved in Hardware Upgrades
Any time you buy and attempt to install hardware, there are risks involved. Most of these
are minor compared to the benefi ts you stand to achieve by upgrading. Such risks can be
minimized with proper diligence.
One of the biggest risks in buying an upgrade component is that it won't be compatible
with your system, and that you'll be stuck with a part that doesn't work and unable to return
it for some reason. Buying from a retailer with a liberal return policy is one way to hedge
your bet, but it's better to consider compatibility carefully before you reach for your wallet.
As we've outlined in greater detail in the preceding sections, compatibility involves the
following:
Physical Compatibility Will the component physically fi t into your system or its ports? For
example, if you're buying a FireWire external hard disk, make sure you have a FireWire port.
System Compatibility Will your system recognize and accept the component? For
example, when buying RAM, make sure you buy the right speed.
Operating System Compatibility Is a driver available for this device for your OS? For
example, if you buy a device designed for the Mac, it may not work on a PC and vice versa.
These compatibility concerns and more are usually addressed on the box in which the
device is packaged, so you can read about its requirements before you leave the store.
When you upgrade to a new version of a device, the OS may get confused if you're
replacing it with an only slightly different model. Therefore, it's best to uninstall the driver
of the old device you're removing before you install a new one to replace it. To uninstall the
software for an old device in Windows, fi rst check the Programs list in the Control Panel
as you learned in Chapter 6, and remove any software associated with that device. Then
unplug the device, or remove it from the system. (Remember to shut down the PC fi rst
unless it's a USB or FireWire device you're removing.)
Upgrading a piece of hardware may also cause glitches with applications. For example,
you may have webcam software that works only with certain models, and your new camera
may be incompatible with it. Check with the software maker to see if an updated version is
available that supports newer models.
Earlier in the chapter, you learned about the importance of an available PATA or SATA
connector when selecting hard drives and expansion cards (such as display adapters). Data
bus differences can also be the source of hardware incompatibilities, such as trying to use a
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