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Q: Computer software ( Answered,   0 Comments )
Question  
Subject: Computer software
Category: Computers > Software
Asked by: billysam123-ga
List Price: $5.00
Posted: 08 Nov 2003 15:38 PST
Expires: 08 Dec 2003 15:38 PST
Question ID: 273948
Is there a computer software program available to make Windows 95
HotSync compatable with the Palm Tungsten E handheld via the USB port?

If so, where/how can I get it?
Answer  
Subject: Re: Computer software
Answered By: clouseau-ga on 08 Nov 2003 16:21 PST
 
Hello billysam123,

Thank you for your question.

The answer is not extremely positive as USB is not a forte of Windows
95. In fact, many versions of 95 have NO USB support and other
versions are limited. See this article:
http://www.usbman.com/Win95%20USB%20Guide.htm

Windows 95 USB Guide

"Windows 95 OSR 2.1 and OSR 2.5 provide basic USB support that was
developed as the technology was first emerging. Based on today's more
mature USB technology, there are a number of limitations with USB
support in Windows 95 OSR 2.1 and Windows 95 OSR 2.5.

These limitations were addressed in Microsoft Windows 98 and carried
forward to Microsoft Windows 98 Second Edition. Addressing these
limitations required several architectural changes that are not
portable back to Windows 95 OSR 2.1 or Windows 95 OSR 2.5.

Microsoft recommends that customers who require a more robust USB
environment upgrade to Windows 98 or Windows 98 Second Edition."

Determine if Your Version Supports USB

The first thing you must do to enable USB in Win95 is to determine
which version of the operating system you are using.  Please Note that
the original or first version of Windows 95 including the update and
version A, is NOT capable of USB connectivity.  There is NO update for
these versions of Win95 that can provide USB support.  Win95 versions
B & C have limited USB functionality.  The first Microsoft operating
system to fully support USB is Win98 first edition.  (See Chart)

Availability of USB in Win95 by Release & File Date
 
Release Version File Date  USB Download Files 
Retail 4.00.950 7/11/95 NO NO 
Retail SP1 4.00.950A 7/11/95 NO NO 
OEM Service Release 1 4.00.950A 7/11/95 NO NO 
OEM Service Release 2 4.00.1111 (4.00.950B) 8/24/96 NO NO 
OEM Service Release 2.1 4.03.1212-1214 (4.00.950B) 8/24/96-8/27/97 YES YES 
OEM Service Release 2.5 4.03.1214 (4.00.950C) 8/24/96-11/18/97 YES YES.." 

I also notes further on that:

"USB in Windows95 is disabled by default

To enable full USB support in Win95 B & C, you must  install two
files, USBSUPP.exe  and USBUPD2.exe..."

See the article for further installation instructions.

You most likely will find everything you need to know about "possibly"
gaining USB support on your computer with Windows 95. However, the
reality is that very few software manufacturers (or hardware, for that
matter) support Windows 95 any longer. As of this coming January 4th,
Microsoft will not be supporting Windows 98 any longer as well. So,
for access to more current features, you might consider an Operating
System Upgrade.

Although this article is for Kodak USB products, it might also provide
you with helpful information on troubleshooting USB and Windows 95:
http://www.kodak.com/global/en/service/tib/tib4255.shtml

When USB Devices Don't Work Properly with WINDOWS 95 Systems

There is also a serial port cradle for the Palm Tungsten that should
work with Windows 95 if the problems are, as I interpret your
question, USB problems. If I have misinterpreted ytour question, and
USB is funtioning on your computer and other USB devices funtion,
please clarify and I will be happy to research a bit further for you.
Provide details of the problems you are encountering. But if I read
correctly, then the above information should assist you in getting USB
to function if it is possible on the revison of Windows 95 you
currently have.

Search Strategy:

USB HotSync +"Windows 95"

I trust my research has provided you with pertinant information on USB
and Windows 95. If a link above should fail to work or anything
require further explanation or research, please do post a Request for
Clarification prior to rating the answer and closing the question and
I will be pleased to assist further.

Regards,

-=clouseau=-

Request for Answer Clarification by billysam123-ga on 15 Nov 2003 15:24 PST
The answer apparently is no.  To restate the problem- previously I had
the Palm III which when placed in the cradle (connected to a 9 pronged
computer port (serial?) by cable) the HotSync process worked fine. 
Now with the newer Tungsten E the cable connection is to the USB port
and the HotSync process does not work at all.  I understand that
Windows 95 (as is) is not compatable with the Tungsten E for this
process.  Also, per your information, there is no software driver to
correct this.  That being so, the only other option would be a cable
which fit the small connection on the Palm at one end (the Tungsten E
does not fit in the cradle) and the 9 pronged port on the computer. 
My guess is that "there ain't no such animal", but please let me know
if you are aware if there is, and if so where available.  Thanks for
your help.

Clarification of Answer by clouseau-ga on 15 Nov 2003 20:25 PST
Hi again Billysam,

Actually, if you re-read my answer, your version of Windows 95 may and
may not be able to support USB. And it also may not be activated, but
you will have to follow along with the above to be sure. Or upgrade
the OS.

Take a look at this serial cable as well:
http://www.palmone.com/us/products/accessories/chargerscablescradles/P10804U.html

Note, it says Tungsten Series and does not seem to exclude the E
series, so it may be your answer for a serial solution. If not, I'm
afraid you will have to upgrade the OS to be able to hotsync this
device.

Regards,

-=clouseau=-
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