USB Communication Speed

[gerald_martin]

I know there's been a good bit of discussion on com speeds and electrical interferance on this forum already - I don't want to wear this out:

My Dell OptiPlex 320 is P4 3.0GHz, 1.0 GB RAM.

With a USB 2.0 hub connected to my PRT96 V4g controller, the USB speed test clocks about 84-85%.

Question: It's been stated here that Dell PC's don't do well on USB issues and that a PCI USB card is a good idea. This summer I will be setting up my new PRS Alpha tool and using this same PC. Will the Alpha demand better communications than my PRT tool? Should I install a USB card? If so, which one? They seem to range in price from $10 to $500....

Opinions anyone?

Gerald

[Brady Watson]

Gerald,
If it ain't broke...don't fix it
If you are getting 84%+ from your setup, that is very good & plenty for any ShopBot to be run at full speed without any communication issues.

The 'Dell USB Issue' seems to be attributed to conflicts when you run a USB kb & mouse on the same bus as the Bot. A card fixes this.

-B

[gerald_martin]

Thank you, Brady.

Your feedback is always helpful.

Anyone else?

Gerald