A: USB allows up to 127 devices to be simultaneously connected for a total of 12 megabits per second of combined bandwidth. USB has become such an easy and standard interface for connecting so many devices, why not connect computers with it as well, right? Wrong -- well, at least not over a regular USB cable strung between two systems.

USB is strictly hierarchical and is controlled by one host. The host uses a master/slave protocol to communicate with attached USB devices. This means that the host initiates every kind of communication; devices cannot establish direct connection. Put two hosts (one on your notebook, one on your desktop) on the same USB chain, and you're in trouble.

Special USB cables

But wait -- networking between computers is still possible thanks to several manufacturers who have developed specialized USB cables.

BUSlink Corporation offers an affordable solution. It sells a USB file transfer cable with software and drivers for $50. This product only allows you to connect two computers.

Belkin, on the other hand, sells a product called USB Direct Connect for $80. It's a kind of miniature two-port USB hub that will network two computers and includes the capability to network even more, if you purchase additional USB Direct Connects.

The software is extremely simple, allowing you to drag and drop files between systems. I would say that the installations were simple as well, except that in their simplicity both of these came exclusively on floppy.

I almost didn't get one of my notebooks working, because I had to remove the CD drive and go hunting for the removable floppy, which I'd last used months ago.